OverviewAbout this course

    Find your fit in the textiles, clothing and footwear industry as you bring your creative visions to life with the Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (Design and Product Development). Focus on garment design drawing, pattern making and sewing skills and develop the skills you need to succeed in the fast-paced world of fashion.

    TAFE NSW has specialised in digital training for the fashion industry for over 30 years. In addition to your practical skills, you’ll learn industry-specific computer skills and digital design using the Adobe Creative Suite. Our fashion team provides you with the best technical training in the fashion industry, enriched by their current and extensive industry expertise. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge to oversee the construction and production process.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

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

    • Identify fibres, fabrics and textiles
    • Identify fabric performance and handling requirements
    • Calculate cost estimates for textile, clothing and footwear industry products
    • Quality assuring textile products
    • Develop and present design concepts according to project briefs
    • Use technology to develop design concepts

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in: 

    • Applying design elements and principles to fashion concept development
    • Supporting and participating in sustainable practices in apparel and textile design, and production
    • Using technology such as Adobe Creative Suite to develop design concepts
    • Networking with professionals in the fashion industry

    Develop your professional confidence

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

    • Creative flair and drawing ability
    • Good colour and design sense
    • Computer skills
    • Good hand-eye coordination
    • The ability to work independently or as part of a team
    • Good time management skills

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Fashion Designer
    • Clothing Patternmaker
    • Graphic Designer for Fashion
    • Assistant Production Merchandiser
    • Visual Merchandiser

    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.


    Total number of units = 25 9 core units 16 elective units, consisting of 1 unit from Group A at least 8 units from Groups B or C 7 additional units from Groups B, C, D or any endorsed Training Package or accredited course all units must be relevant to the work outcome. Any combination of elective units that meets the rules above can be selected for the award of MST50122 Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles. Where appropriate, elective units may be packaged to provide a qualification with a specialisation. Packaging for Specialisations Elective units must be packaged to provide a qualification with a specialisation area as follows:At least 5 Group B electives must be selected for award of MST50122 Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (Design and product development)

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Develop and present design concepts in response to a briefMSTAT5001

    • Source materials and resources for production of TCF designsMSTFD4022

    • Cost production of fashion and textile designsMSTFD5027

    • Support sustainable practice in apparel and textile design and productionMSTGN3018

    • Interact and network with TCF industry participantsMSTGN4023

    • Quality assure textile productsMSTGN4024

    • Use digital design toolsMSTGN4025

    • Assess impact of current and emerging industry innovations and practicesMSTGN5017

    • Research and analyse textile materialsMSTGN5018

    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

    Strengthen your expertise with a TAFE NSW fashion 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