Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia

Checkout the Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia....

Standyou Team
Standyou Team

Mar 25, 2025 01:50:40

Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia for International Students


1. Top Universities/Institutes Offering Interior Design in Australia

  • RMIT University (Melbourne) – Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours)

  • University of Technology Sydney (UTS) – Bachelor of Design in Interior Architecture

  • Swinburne University of Technology (Melbourne) – Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture)

  • Griffith University (Brisbane) – Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours)

  • Billy Blue College of Design (Torrens University) – Bachelor of Interior Design (Residential/Commercial)

  • University of South Australia (UniSA) – Bachelor of Interior Architecture


2. Duration

  • Typically 3 to 4 years (depending on the university and program structure).

  • Honours programs usually run for 4 years.


3. Eligibility Requirements

  • Academic:

    • Completion of 12th grade or equivalent with good academic standing.

  • English Language Proficiency:

    • IELTS: Minimum overall 6.0 or 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)

    • TOEFL, PTE scores are also accepted (requirements vary by institution).

  • Portfolio:

    • Most design programs require a portfolio demonstrating creative skills and design potential.

  • Interview (in some cases)


4. Fees

  • Tuition fees range between AUD 25,000 to AUD 40,000 per year (depending on the university).

  • Living costs approx. AUD 21,000 to AUD 25,000 per year (as per Australian student visa guidelines).


5. Scholarship Opportunities

  • Australia Awards Scholarships

  • University-specific scholarships (Merit-based, Academic Excellence, or International Student Grants)

  • Design-specific scholarships like Billy Blue Scholarship for Design Excellence


6. Career Opportunities After Graduation

  • Interior Designer

  • Interior Decorator

  • Spatial Designer

  • Exhibition Designer

  • Furniture Designer

  • Set Designer for theatre, TV, or film


7. Visa Requirements

  • Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500)

  • Proof of funds, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and confirmation of enrolment (CoE) from the university are mandatory.
     

Universities in Australia


Universities Offering Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia


1. RMIT University (Melbourne)

  • Program: Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours)

  • Duration: 4 years

  • Known for its strong design faculty and industry connections.


2. University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

  • Program: Bachelor of Design in Interior Architecture

  • Duration: 3 years

  • Strong emphasis on creativity and hands-on studio work.


3. Swinburne University of Technology (Melbourne)

  • Program: Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture) (Honours)

  • Duration: 4 years

  • Includes internships and industry projects.


4. Griffith University (Brisbane & Gold Coast)

  • Program: Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours)

  • Duration: 4 years

  • Focus on both creative design and technical skills.


5. University of South Australia (UniSA)

  • Program: Bachelor of Interior Architecture

  • Duration: 3 years

  • Industry-oriented program with strong practical learning.


6. Torrens University Australia (Billy Blue College of Design)

  • Program: Bachelor of Interior Design (Commercial/Residential/Environmental)

  • Duration: 3 years

  • Known for industry-based learning and flexible intakes.


7. The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)

  • Program: Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours)

  • Duration: 4 years

  • High-ranking school with research and design-focused curriculum.


8. Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

  • Program: Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture)

  • Duration: 3 years

  • Strong design innovation and practical exposure.
     

Building & Architecture in Australia


Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia

 
1. Academic Requirements

  • Completion of 12th grade / Senior Secondary Education or equivalent from a recognized board.

  • Minimum score requirements vary, but generally around 60-70% or equivalent GPA.


2. English Language Proficiency

  • IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)

  • TOEFL iBT: Score between 60 – 90+ (depending on the university)

  • PTE Academic: Score between 50 – 64


3. Portfolio

  • Most universities require a portfolio showcasing creative and artistic skills (sketches, design projects, digital work, or any design-related work).

  • The portfolio demonstrates your interest and potential in design and creativity.


4. Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose (SOP)

  • A well-written SOP explaining why you want to study Interior Design, your career goals, and why you’re choosing that particular university.


5. Interview (if required by the university)

  • Some universities may conduct an interview (online or in-person) to assess your passion, creativity, and suitability for the program.


6. Other Documents

  • Passport copy

  • Academic transcripts and certificates

  • Proof of English language proficiency

  • Letters of recommendation (sometimes required)
     

B.Arch in Australia


Course Duration of Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia
 

Program Type

Duration

Standard Bachelor's Degree

3 years (full-time)

Bachelor's with Honours

4 years (full-time)

Part-time study (if offered to international students)

Not usually available; international students are generally required to study full-time


 Example Durations at Top Universities:

  • RMIT University – 4 years (Honours)

  • UTS Sydney – 3 years

  • Griffith University – 4 years (Honours)

  • Swinburne University – 4 years (Honours)

  • Torrens University (Billy Blue) – 3 years (can be fast-tracked in 2 years with trimester system)
     

Masters in Interior Design in Australia


Online Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia


 1. Torrens University Australia (Billy Blue College of Design)

  • Program: Bachelor of Interior Design (Residential / Commercial / Environmental)

  • Mode: Fully online or blended (on-campus + online)

  • Duration: 3 years full-time (with options to fast-track)

  • Features:

    • Flexible learning

    • Live classes, recorded sessions, and interactive studio work

    • Portfolio-based assignments and real-world design projects


 2. Open Universities Australia (OUA) — Platform for multiple universities

  • Partner Universities: Swinburne University, Curtin University, and more

  • Program Examples: Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture) via online learning

  • Mode: 100% online with flexible study periods

  • Includes: Access to lectures, online studio projects, and remote feedback from design professionals


 3. Swinburne University of Technology

  • Program: Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture)

  • Mode: Available fully online for international students in certain regions

  • Features:

    • Project-based learning

    • Access to digital design tools

    • Online critiques and presentations


Key Points to Know About Online Study:

  • Most programs include virtual design studioslive tutorialsrecorded lectures, and submission of digital portfolios.

  • Software training (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Photoshop) is integrated into the course.

  • Some universities allow part-time or accelerated study.


Intakes & Application Deadlines for Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia


1. Major Intakes

Intake

Study Commencement

Application Deadline (Approx.)

February (Semester 1)

Late February / Early March

September to November (previous year)

July (Semester 2)

Mid to late July

March to May

October / November (Trimester 3)

Some universities (like Torrens) only

July to August


2. University-Specific Deadlines (Typical)

  • RMIT University:

    • February intake: Apply by October – November of the previous year

    • July intake: Apply by April – May

  • University of Technology Sydney (UTS):

    • Main intake: February, with deadlines around October – November

  • Swinburne University of Technology:

    • February & July intakes, deadlines about 3–4 months before start date

  • Griffith University:

    • Trimester 1 (February), Trimester 2 (July), Trimester 3 (October)

    • Application deadlines usually 3 months prior

  • Torrens University Australia (Billy Blue College of Design):

    • Multiple intakes: February, June, September

    • Applications generally accepted until 1 month before intake


 Recommendation for International Students

  • Start application preparation (portfolio, SOP, documents) at least 6–8 months before your desired intake.

  • Submit applications 3–4 months before the intake to allow time for processing and student visa approval.
     

Tuition Fees for Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia
 

University

Program

Approximate Annual Tuition Fees (AUD)

RMIT University (Melbourne)

Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours)

AUD 39,360 – 42,240 per year

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

Bachelor of Design in Interior Architecture

AUD 42,720 per year

Swinburne University of Technology (Melbourne)

Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture) (Hons)

AUD 36,400 – 38,600 per year

Griffith University (Brisbane, Gold Coast)

Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours)

AUD 33,000 – 36,500 per year

University of South Australia (UniSA)

Bachelor of Interior Architecture

AUD 34,300 per year

Torrens University (Billy Blue College of Design)

Bachelor of Interior Design (Residential/Commercial)

AUD 26,400 – 30,000 per year

Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture)

AUD 35,100 – 37,000 per year

The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)

Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours)

AUD 42,600 – 44,000 per year


 Additional Costs to Consider

Expense

Approximate Cost (AUD)

Student services & amenities fee

AUD 300 – 350 per year

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Around AUD 500 – 600 per year

Living expenses (as per visa guidelines)

AUD 21,000 – 25,000 per year


 Scholarships

  • Universities offer merit-based scholarships, international student grants, and design-specific scholarships.

  • Average scholarship values range from AUD 3,000 to AUD 10,000 per year, depending on eligibility.


Cost of doing Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia


1. Tuition Fees

University Tier

Approx. Tuition Fees (per year)

Total for 3-4 years

Top universities (RMIT, UTS, UNSW)

AUD 40,000 – 44,000

AUD 120,000 – 176,000

Mid-range universities (Swinburne, Griffith, QUT)

AUD 33,000 – 38,000

AUD 99,000 – 152,000

Affordable private institutions (Torrens University)

AUD 26,000 – 30,000

AUD 78,000 – 120,000


2. Living Expenses

  • The Australian government estimates living costs for international students at around AUD 21,000 – 25,000 per year, including:

    • Accommodation

    • Food & groceries

    • Transport

    • Utilities and internet

    • Personal expenses

 

Duration

Estimated Living Cost

3-year degree

AUD 63,000 – 75,000

4-year degree

AUD 84,000 – 100,000


3. Health Insurance (OSHC)

  • AUD 500 – 600 per year

  • For 3-4 years: AUD 1,500 – 2,400


4. Additional Costs

Item

Estimated Cost (AUD)

Visa application fee

AUD 710 (one-time)

Student services & amenities fees

AUD 300 – 350 per year

Study materials (software, supplies)

AUD 1,000 – 1,500 per year

Flights (one-time/annual visits)

Varies (approx. AUD 1,000 – 2,000 per trip)


 Total Estimated Cost for the Entire Program

University Tier

3-Year Program (Total)

4-Year Program (Total)

Top universities

AUD 185,000 – 255,000

AUD 240,000 – 300,000

Mid-range universities

AUD 160,000 – 210,000

AUD 210,000 – 250,000

Affordable private institutions

AUD 145,000 – 190,000

AUD 190,000 – 225,000


Admission Process for Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia


1. Research & Shortlisting Universities

  • Explore universities offering Bachelor in Interior Design / Interior Architecture.

  • Check intake dates, eligibility criteria, tuition fees, and scholarship availability.


2. Check Eligibility

  • Complete 12th grade or equivalent.

  • Meet English language requirements (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores).

  • Prepare a portfolio (if required by the university).


3. Prepare Required Documents

  • Academic transcripts & certificates (12th grade or equivalent)

  • English language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)

  • Portfolio of design work (drawings, digital work, creative projects)

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)

  • Letters of Recommendation (if required)

  • Passport copy

  • CV/Resume (optional but recommended)


4. Apply Online to Universities

  • Create an application account on the university portal.

  • Fill out the application form.

  • Upload all required documents.

  • Pay the application fee (if applicable).


5. Portfolio Submission

  • Most design universities require either a portfolio upload with the application or submission through a separate link.

  • Follow portfolio guidelines (usually provided by the university).


6. Attend Interview (if applicable)

  • Some universities may conduct a design interview or request an online presentation of your portfolio.


7. Receive Offer Letter

  • If accepted, you will receive either a conditional or unconditional offer letter.

  • Accept the offer by paying the initial tuition deposit (usually stated in the offer letter).


8. Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500)

  • Gather documents: CoE (Confirmation of Enrollment), financial proof, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and passport.

  • Apply online via the Australian Government visa portal.


9. Plan for Departure

  • Book accommodation, plan travel, and attend pre-departure orientation (if provided by the university).


 Typical Application Timeline

Step

Recommended Time

Research & shortlist universities

9–10 months before intake

Take English test & prepare portfolio

7–8 months before intake

Apply to universities

6 months before intake

Receive offer & accept

4–5 months before intake

Apply for visa

3–4 months before intake

Arrange travel

1–2 months before intake


Scholarships for doing Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia


 University-Specific Scholarships for Interior Design Students

University

Scholarship Name

Value/Benefit

Eligibility Highlights

RMIT University

RMIT International Excellence Scholarship

25% tuition fee reduction

Academic merit; automatic consideration

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

UTS International Undergraduate Full Tuition Scholarship

Full tuition fee coverage for duration

Outstanding academic performance; separate application required

Swinburne University of Technology

Swinburne International Excellence Undergraduate Scholarship

AUD 2,500 – AUD 5,000 per year

Based on academic merit; automatically assessed

Griffith University

International Student Academic Excellence Scholarship

25% tuition reduction

High academic achievement; automatic consideration

University of South Australia (UniSA)

International Merit Scholarship

15% reduction in tuition fees

Academic performance; automatically considered

Torrens University (Billy Blue College of Design)

Design Merit Scholarships

Up to 30% tuition fee discount

Creative portfolio excellence and academic merit; application required


 Government & External Scholarships

Scholarship Name

Benefit

Eligibility

Australia Awards Scholarship

Full tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowance

Students from eligible countries with excellent academic and leadership potential

Destination Australia Scholarship

AUD 15,000 per year

For students studying in regional Australia; based on merit


 Tips to Increase Your Scholarship Chances

  • Maintain excellent academic grades (above 70–75%).

  • Prepare a strong portfolio showcasing creativity and design potential.

  • Write a well-crafted SOP emphasizing your passion for interior design, career goals, and reasons for choosing Australia.

  • Apply early (scholarships have earlier deadlines than course applications).


Career after Bachelor in Interior Design in Australia


 Popular Career Options

Job Role

Description

Interior Designer

Design interior spaces for residential, commercial, or hospitality projects with a focus on aesthetics and functionality.

Interior Decorator

Specializes in furnishing, color schemes, and decorative elements without altering structural design.

Interior Architect

Focuses on the structural design and layout of interior spaces, blending architecture and interiors.

Exhibition Designer

Creates layouts and concepts for exhibitions, trade shows, and gallery spaces.

Furniture Designer

Designs custom furniture pieces that align with interior design themes.

Retail Space Designer

Plans and designs retail outlets and shopping spaces to optimize customer experience.

Set Designer (Theatre/TV/Film)

Designs interior and stage setups for productions.

Sustainable/Green Design Specialist

Focuses on environmentally friendly and energy-efficient interior solutions.

3D Visualizer / CAD Technician

Specializes in creating 3D models and design visualizations for projects.


 Potential Employers

  • Interior design consultancies

  • Architecture and design studios

  • Construction and property development companies

  • Retail brands and fit-out specialists

  • Event and exhibition companies

  • Film and media production houses


 Salary Range (Approx.) in Australia

Position

Entry-Level Salary (AUD/year)

Experienced Salary (AUD/year)

Interior Designer

AUD 55,000 – 65,000

AUD 80,000 – 100,000

Interior Architect

AUD 60,000 – 70,000

AUD 90,000 – 110,000

Exhibition Designer

AUD 55,000 – 70,000

AUD 85,000 – 95,000

Furniture Designer

AUD 50,000 – 65,000

AUD 80,000+

Set Designer

AUD 50,000 – 70,000

AUD 85,000+


 PR Pathways and Work Rights

  • After completing your degree, you may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) for 2–4 years.

  • Interior Design falls under creative and design-related occupations, which may feature on state nomination lists for Australian PR (subject to updates).