OverviewAbout this course

    Unlock your creativity and gain the skills and expertise you need to thrive in the fashion industry with our Certificate IV in Design (Fashion Design).

    Develop creative design projects and gain practical experience. You'll learn to draw basic sketches of textile products and produce computer-aided drawings that bring your designs to life. Work on your illustration skills and learn how to interpret and respond to design briefs to meet client expectations and industry standards.

    With industry-experienced teachers and a supportive learning environment, the Certificate IV in Design (Fashion Design) will encourage you to unleash your artistic potential.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to: 

    • Develop, implement and bring to life a creative design project
    • Apply information on the history and theory of design to your work
    • Draw basic sketches of textile products
    • Produce computer-aided drawings
    • Develop and refine illustrative work
    • Interpret and respond to a design brief

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in:

    • Applying a range of techniques for the design of wearable products
    • Creating pages according to a design brief, using page layout applications
    • Interpreting design briefs in consultation with others
    • Collaborating and engaging with others in creative processes
    • Sketching techniques that accurately represent a textiles product
    • Applying work health and safety practices to your work

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • Creativity
    • An interest in fashion design
    • Attention to detail
    • The ability to problem-solve
    • Collaboration and communication skills

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Junior Fashion Designer
    • Textile Studio Assistant
    • Fashion Studio Assistant
    • Fashion Merchandiser
    • Fashion Marketing Assistant

    SuitabilityInternational entry requirements

    At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.

    Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations

    As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.

    Additional costs

    Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.

    Structure and unitsWhat you will study

    At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.


    7 core units plus 8 elective units, of which: 5 must be from electives listed below 3 may be from the remaining listed electives or any currently endorsed training package qualification or accredited course.

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Apply critical thinking to work practicesBSBCRT411

    • Integrate colour theory and design processesCUAACD411

    • Source and apply information on the history and theory of designCUADES305

    • Generate design solutionsCUADES411

    • Interpret and respond to a design briefCUADES412

    • Realise a creative projectCUAPPR411

    • Apply work health and safety practicesCUAWHS312

    PathwaysContinue your studies

    At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:


    Vocational study pathway

    Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW degree pathway

    From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways

    TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    Other university pathways

    You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.


    Keep learning with TAFE NSW

    Build your expertise with a TAFE NSW fashion design study pathway:

    You are able to package two or more TAFE NSW courses together. This means you can plan your studies to achieve your career goals. When you apply for a TAFE NSW vocational pathway, you can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    ServicesCampus facilities and support services

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.

    We offer a range of support services including: 

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service 
    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support  
    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling, and Pathways Service  
    • Smarthinking – online access to a tutor 
    • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    We're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International