Master's Degree Graphic Design Full Time

Master of Design

at Griffith University · Brisbane, Queensland

CRICOS course code

096162K

CRICOS provider code

00233E

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$84,000 total

Per year

A$42,000/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

Griffith University's Master of Design is a two-year coursework degree based at its Brisbane campus. This degree allows students to deepen their expertise and broaden their practice within graphic design, exploring topics such as visual communication, interaction design, digital media, and user experience. Students can shape their studies through electives, industry projects, or studio-based practice, depending on their interests.

The course is structured with a series of units of study, each with an assigned credit point value. Most full-time students take subjects across trimesters, covering core design methodologies, research-driven practice, and practical studio work. In the final stages, students undertake a capstone project—often client-driven or research-based—bringing together the skills and knowledge developed across the degree. This is a key opportunity to demonstrate professional capability and originality.

Many units encourage hands-on learning and collaborative projects. There may also be opportunities for professional placements or partnerships with Australian organisations, including design studios, advertising agencies, or non-profits. This industry focus is supported by Griffith’s links to Queensland’s creative sector, giving students a sense of how theory translates into real projects.

This course suits those aiming to upskill or change direction in design, as well as graduates from related creative fields who want to deepen their portfolio and build connections in the Australian design industry. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) can let graduates work in Australia after their studies, and students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while enrolled. Make sure to check Griffith’s official page for the most accurate unit lists and details.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Graphic designer in studios, agencies or consultancies
UX or UI designer for digital and tech businesses
Branding and visual strategist
Design researcher
Creative director or design lead
Opportunities in advertising, publishing, education, digital media and in-house creative teams across Queensland and Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Design at Griffith University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$84,000 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Graphic designer in studios, agencies or consultanciesUX or UI designer for digital and tech businessesBranding and visual strategistDesign researcherCreative director or design leadOpportunities in advertising, publishing, education, digital media and in-house creative teams acr...

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