Associate Degree in Fashion at RMIT University, Melbourne

Associate Degree Industrial Design Full Time

Associate Degree in Fashion

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

116398J

CRICOS provider code

00122A

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$78,720 total

Per year

A$39,360/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Associate Degree in Fashion at RMIT University introduces core concepts in design, garment construction, textile sourcing, pattern making, and fashion buying. Students learn through studio-based activities, working on projects informed by the Australian fashion industry. The curriculum brings together creative and technical skills, including trend research, sustainability practices, and digital fashion technologies that shape how ideas go from concept to customer.

This two-year qualification fits within the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 6. Students complete units of study, each carrying a set number of credit points that contribute towards the degree. Industry engagement is threaded throughout, allowing for practical application through internships or work-integrated learning with established Australian fashion brands, manufacturers, or design studios. Assessment is often portfolio-based, reflecting the expectations of local employers and sector standards.

Graduates develop skills in garment development, fabric selection, fashion illustration, and collection curation, as well as project management and communication skills important in client-facing roles. This degree suits those looking to enter fashion design or production, or planning to pathway into a bachelor degree after completing the associate qualification.

International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during teaching periods, and the course is CRICOS registered. Upon completion, eligible graduates may be able to access the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. For English requirements and further details, always check the official university page.

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

Assistant fashion designer in design studios and fashion houses
Garment technician for apparel brands and manufacturers
Fashion buyer or product developer for retail companies
Visual merchandiser in fashion retail
Pattern maker or sample machinist
Roles with Australian clothing labels, wholesalers, or textile companies

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Associate Degree in Fashion at RMIT 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$78,720 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Assistant fashion designer in design studios and fashion housesGarment technician for apparel brands and manufacturersFashion buyer or product developer for retail companiesVisual merchandiser in fashion retailPattern maker or sample machinistRoles with Australian clothing labels...

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