Diploma of Product Design at RMIT University in Melbourne
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Diploma Manufacturing Engineering Full Time

Diploma of Product Design

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

114571F

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$53,750 total

Per year

A$26,875/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Diploma of Product Design at RMIT University in Melbourne focuses on shaping creative thinkers able to develop and refine products for manufacturing and commercial markets. Across two years, students explore key aspects of the design process such as sketching, digital modelling, prototyping, and materials selection. The curriculum covers both technical skills and the communication abilities needed to present and justify design decisions in professional contexts.

Students can expect a mixture of studio-based learning and practical, hands-on projects that reflect real-world product development. Teaching is structured by units of study, each carrying a certain number of credit points that contribute to completing the qualification. Learning may also include opportunities to engage with local industry through guest lectures, site visits or simulated briefs, highlighting Melbourne's established design and manufacturing sectors.

Those enrolled will build experience in design thinking, CAD (computer-aided design), and project management. The diploma suits people who want an entry point to the product and manufacturing design industry or who are interested in further study in industrial design or related fields. The course is also suitable for career changers, school leavers interested in hands-on visual work, or individuals wanting a pathway to a higher education degree.

International students must meet RMIT's English language requirements and may apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after graduation, which allows post-study work in Australia. While enrolled, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, making this course accessible for those needing part-time employment alongside studies. For current information on course fees, credit points, and structure, always check the official university or CRICOS 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

  • Product design assistant in manufacturing companies
  • Junior CAD designer for design consultancies
  • Prototype or model maker in industrial workshops
  • Technical support roles in design and manufacturing businesses
  • Entry positions in consumer product companies and start-ups
  • Further study pathways into industrial design or engineering degrees

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Diploma of Product Design 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$53,750 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Product design assistant in manufacturing companiesJunior CAD designer for design consultanciesPrototype or model maker in industrial workshopsTechnical support roles in design and manufacturing businessesEntry positions in consumer product companies and start-upsFurther study pa...

Guides for this subject and the application

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