Diploma of Civil Construction Design

The Diploma of Civil Construction Design at Nexgen Institute of Australia is a practical, industry-focused qualification for people who want to work on the design and documentation side of civil projects. You will learn to produce detailed drawings and plans for roads, drainage, subdivisions and structures, and to work with design software that engineering offices use every day. The course covers civil construction materials, structural principles, surveying, and the interpretation of engineering and architectural plans. Assessment is mostly project-based, so you build a portfolio of drawings and design documents rather than just sitting exams.

This is a diploma, which sits at Level 5 on the Australian Qualifications Framework. It is generally delivered over three or four study periods across 1.5 years, with each unit carrying a set number of credit points. There is no honours year or thesis at this level. Instead, the final part of the course usually involves a capstone design project where you take a brief from a simulated client and produce a full set of civil drawings. Some providers arrange work-integrated learning or a placement with a civil design firm, but you should confirm the placement arrangements directly with Nexgen Institute of Australia.

You will gain skills in computer-aided design (CAD), reading and preparing civil construction drawings, estimating quantities, applying Australian standards, and working safely on site. Graduates often move into drafting or design support roles and can go on to further study, such as an advanced diploma or a bachelor degree in civil engineering, with credit for units already completed. The diploma is also a pathway for people already working in construction who want to move into the office side of the industry.

This course suits school leavers who like technical drawing and problem solving, as well as tradespeople and site workers looking to change direction. International students should check the CRICOS register for the published tuition and confirm English requirements on the official page. The standard English entry is IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or an accepted equivalent such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge C1 Advanced. While studying, a student visa allows up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during term. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, depending on your circumstances.

• Civil design draftsperson
• Engineering assistant
• CAD technician
• Structural drafting officer
• Construction project support officer
• Estimator (civil works)
• Site administration officer

These roles are found in engineering consultancies, local councils, state road and transport authorities, civil contractors, and mining and infrastructure companies across Australia.