Design
Digital Design Course Information
The digital design course at Curtin University is positioned within the Department of Design in the School of Design and Art, Faculty of Humanities. The course encourages students to explore their own interests by selecting from a range of optional and elective units. In determining their own study program, students will develop a broader outlook, gain practical strength and learn to thrive in digital design’s fast-changing social and technological environment.
The second and third year programs provide students with a series of core design units complemented by a flexible approach to study that allows them to choose study units from across the broad spectrum of the university. The intention of the flexible structure is to assist students in designing a study program best suited to their individual needs, talents, particular interests and to help them realise their full potential. Students are encouraged to undertake studies either within the digital design area; in other aspects of design - such as fashion, illustration, advertising, and graphic design; or within other academic disciplines - such as sociology, psychology, engineering, film and television.
In general, classes are from 1 to 3 hours duration and consist of lectures, tutorials, and critiques in the design school's studio/classrooms, computer laboratories, lecture theatres and technical production studios. Students are directed and instructed by staff with a range of background experience in academia and professional 'industry' practice in design, film and television, animation, and fine art.
A mix of exercises, projects, assignments, and written components are used to deliver the course content. Students demonstrate levels of ability through successful completion of industry briefs, entry in national and international design competitions and awards, scholarly research with a special emphasis on creative problem solving, and innovative approaches to design practice using a higher level of thinking (see link to Gallery page for examples of student works). Students are assessed both during the development of project work and on its completion, with a strong teaching focus on providing relevant, constructive, and supportive feedback.
The current computer platform in the school is double-boot Apple Macintosh with access to some IMB compatible PCs. Software programs are relevant to current digital design at a professional level, and include Flash, After Effects, Photoshop, Maya, Reason, and Final Cut Pro. There is a strong emphasis on crafts skills including drawing and concept visualisation.
Entry into the course is based on TEE result. Although some background or knowledge of the arts is beneficial for design students it is not essential, it is desirable.
Successful graduates generally go on to work as designers, art directors or creative directors - finding work in media design, web design, animation, film and television, advertising, and other related industries.
