Diploma of Interior Design MSF50218
On Campus & Online
Interior Designers solve problems and create functional, meaningful spaces. This engaging course will launch your career in the exciting interiors industry. You will be exposed to the latest international design trends and best-practice for residential and commercial interiors including retail, office, cafe, restaurant and bar design. You’ll bring your creative ideas to life using 3D modelling software and professional presentation techniques. Study on campus or entirely online at your own pace.
Student work by Ainhoa Beascoechea.
“If you told me just a few short years after graduating from Sydney Design School that I would be sitting in my own studio, working full time at this interior design gig I probably wouldn’t have believed you”
– Diploma graduate Keeley Baird of Something More Design

What you’ll learn
You will explore colour, materials and finishes, spatial planning and construction techniques for a range of residential and commercial projects and creatively present your work using the latest industry software including AutoCAD, Sketchup, Revit, Photoshop and InDesign.
Throughout your course you will be exposed to a wide range of industry suppliers and products through our in-house seminar series and graduate with an exceptional industry focused portfolio of work ready to kick start your career as an Interior Designer.
What will I study?
There are 11 units of study in this course. For a complete list of unit competencies click here. These units can be credited towards our Advanced Diploma of Interior Design or towards a university degree with our partner UNSW Sydney.
SDS01 Foundations of Design and Colour
Embrace core skills from concept development and drawing to the elements and principles of design and composition. Develop an understanding of the design industry, work practices and opportunities.
Explore the inspiring world of colour and learn how to create dynamic schemes. Be introduced to colour theory, colour schemes and the psychology and manipulation of colour. Study the technicalities of paint and develop paint specifications.
SDS02 Interior Planning and Design
Learn the fundamentals of interior design, site evaluation, space planning for kitchens, bathrooms, living and outdoor spaces and lighting for a range of residential environments.
SDS03 Interior Schemes and 3D Visualisation
Explore all aspects of interior decoration including furniture, furnishings, upholstery and window treatments. Learn how to construct an interior scheme and present professional sample boards and specifications.
Visualise your designs in three dimensions through sketching, model making and perspective drawing. You will use rendering techniques to create professional presentations for your clients.
SDS04 Residential Decoration
Prepare for the world of professional design by working on a real residential project – from initial client briefing right through to the final presentation. Learn the business skills to get started in the industry.
SDS05 SketchUp for Designers
Create realistic floor plans and interior models using SketchUp then apply a rendering tool. This user-friendly program enables you to create photorealistic visuals that will enhance your portfolio.
SDS06A AutoCAD & Interior Construction
Learn the fundamentals of interior building construction and extend your drawing skills with AutoCAD. Create an impressive collection of precise residential floorplans and elevations to add to your portfolio.
SDS06R Revit for Designers
Learn how to navigate this essential industry standard BIM modelling software. Design and build sophisticated interior spaces and create realistic 3D presentations of your working model.
SDS07 Residential Planning
Design, plan and model residential spaces by manipulating 3D space using extensions, voids and stairs. You’ll present your ideas using a range of 2D and 3D media.
SDS08 Advanced Colour and Finishes
Learn what drives colour trends and future forecasting as you explore a diverse range of schemes for residential homes, exteriors and public spaces.
SDS09 Small Commercial Design
Extend your research, conceptualisation and design skills by completing a range of small commercial design projects including cafes and exhibition spaces. Create dynamic interior, exterior and commercial colour schemes and learn what drives colour trends and forecasting.
SDS10 Workplace Design
Explore the exciting and fast moving world of workplace design including office and retail spaces. Create a joinery package to showcase your documentation skills to potential employers.
SDS11 Hospitality Design
Develop and apply your conceptual design skills to a range of hospitality spaces including bars and restaurants. Prepare a professional resume, portfolio and exhibition space for graduation.
What are my study options?
On Campus Day Class
- 2 days per week – 18 months
- Mon/Tues
- Contact our team to waitlist for other day options here
- 9:30am – 4:30pm
- Intakes in January or July
On Campus Day Class – Fast track
- 3 days per week – 12 months
- Wed, Thurs & Fri
- 9.30am – 4.30pm
- Intakes in January or July
Self Directed Online
- At your own pace for 2 – 3 years
- Start at anytime
- Delivered by our partner school Interior Design Online
- Visit their website here
What are the entry requirements?
Domestic Student Entry Requirements
To enrol into the Diploma of Interior Design we suggest you join us for an Info Session or Open Day to learn more about the school and the content covered. You can then book an informal interview with our Course Advisor to ensure the course is a good fit.
You’ll need to bring a one page motivational statement to your interview (tell us about yourself, your passion for interiors and why you want to study at Sydney Design School). We’d ideally like you to show us a portfolio of creative work – drawings, photography or design projects you have worked on but this is optional.
All Diploma students will need a laptop computer that can be brought to class and used at home. We recommend students use a PC as this computer is compatible with all software used in the course. If you choose to use a MAC you will be using a different interface for AutoCAD and SketchUp and will need to purchase and install Windows to run Revit. Your computer will need a dedicated graphics card. Read more about our Computer Requirements here.
International Student Entry Requirements
To enrol into the Diploma of Interior Design you will need to meet the following requirements;
- Over 18 years of age
- Passionate about interiors
- Available to study on campus in Sydney
- You will need a strong command of the English language (verbal, written and comprehension) to complete your course successfully. If English is your second language you must provide evidence of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test here or an equivalent. Students must achieve a score of at least 6. You will be required to upload your test result as part of the application process online. During your video interview your English language proficiency will also be assessed by our Course Advisor.
- Eligible to apply for an International Student Visa
You’ll need to attach a one page motivational statement to your application (tell us about yourself, your passion for interiors and why you want to study at Sydney Design School). We’d ideally like you to include a portfolio of creative work – drawings, photography or design projects you have worked on but this is optional.
All Diploma students will need a laptop computer that can be brought to class and used at home. We recommend students use a PC as this computer is compatible with all software used in the course. If you choose to use a MAC you will be using a different interface for AutoCAD and SketchUp and will need to purchase and install Windows to run Revit. Your computer will need a dedicated graphics card. Read more about our Computer Requirements here.
Is this course accredited?
Yes, you’ll receive a nationally accredited and internationally recognised qualification. Our career courses are developed by industry professionals and accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) – the Government’s national regulator for vocational education.
This course is recognised by the Design Institute of Australia (DIA). More information here.
What are the terms dates?
We have two enrolment intakes in January (Term 1) and July (Term 3).
Our terms follow the NSW School Holiday term structure.
2022
Term 1: Monday 31 January to Friday 8 April 2022
Term 2: Tuesday 26 April to Friday 1 July 2022
Term 3: Monday 18 July to Friday 23 September 2022
Term 4: Monday 10 October to Friday 9 December 2022
Note: You may start on a different day of the week depending on your choice of course option.
What is the cost?
Domestic Student Fees
- Total Course Fee: AUD $20,990 (GST free)
- You will need to purchase a Design Kit AUD $595 (GST inc) for the start of your course
- You will need to purchase a 12 month student subscription to SketchUp when you reach Unit 5 (approx AUD $93.50)
- Please allow $50 per term for incidental costs eg. photocopying.
Find out more about our flexible payment options here
Pay in instalments via Ezidebit, view break down of payments and fees here
This course is VET Student Loan approved, find out more here
International Student Fees
- Total Course Fee: AUD $24,990 (GST free)
- You will also need to purchase a Design Kit AUD $595 (GST inc)
- You will need to purchase a 12 month student subscription to SketchUp when you reach Unit 5 (approx AUD $93.50)
- Please allow $50 per term for incidental costs eg. photocopying.
Find out more about paying in instalments here
Can I apply for a VET Student Loan?
Yes this is course is approved for VET Student Loans for domestic students. Find out more about applying here.
Looking for a pathway to a degree?
Sydney Design School and UNSW Sydney have partnered to offer graduates of the Diploma or Advanced Diploma of Interior Design the opportunity to apply for direct entry into the Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Hons) at UNSW Sydney saving them 12 months and 18 months of study respectively. You can commence the Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Hons) in February (T1) or September (T3).
What will I become?
On graduating our students enter a diverse range of professions;
- Interior Designer in a decorating, interior design or architecture firm
- Interior Stylist
- Colour Consultant
- Real Estate Staging Consultant
- CAD and SketchUp Draftsperson
- Interiors Consultant for product, furniture and lighting suppliers/ retail store
- Entrepreneur in your own business
Can I apply for credit?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the acknowledgement of a person’s competency, skills and knowledge which may have been acquired through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning.
Sydney Design School offers applicants the opportunity to apply for RPL and gain credit towards their course. There is a fee associated with an RPL application, please speak to our Course Advisor for more information.
Credit Transfer
Sydney Design School offers a Credit Transfer to any applicant who provides suitable evidence that they have successfully completed a unit or module at any Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
Please note: Credit and RPL for international students is assessed during the application process. Students must remain enrolled in a full-time load to satisfy visa requirements, regardless of the amount of credit awarded for any given semester.
When granting RPL or course credits Sydney Design School will provide the applicant with a written record for them to accept and will retain a written record of acceptance for 2 years after the applicant ceases to be an accepted student.
What is the application process?
If you would like to apply for our Diploma course you can do so online. Simply enter your details into our application form and press submit, no deposit payment is required at this time. When we receive your application, our team will be in touch to arrange an informal interview to ensure that this is the best course option for you personally.
For our conversation you’ll need to bring a one page motivational statement (tell us about yourself, your passion for interiors and why you want to study at Sydney Design School). We’d ideally like you to show us a portfolio of creative work – drawings, photography or design projects you have worked on, but this is completely optional.
We’ll talk through you through our flexible payment options (upfront or by instalment) and the VET Student Loan Scheme (if this is of interest).
Please note: International students will need to apply here.
Ready?
Apply nowDiploma of Interior Design MSF50218
On Campus & Online
Interior Designers solve problems and create functional, meaningful spaces. This engaging course will launch your career in the exciting interiors industry. You will be exposed to the latest international design trends and best-practice for residential and commercial interiors including retail, office, cafe, restaurant and bar design. You’ll bring your creative ideas to life using 3D modelling software and professional presentation techniques. Study on campus or entirely online at your own pace.
Student work by Ainhoa Beascoechea.
“If you told me just a few short years after graduating from Sydney Design School that I would be sitting in my own studio, working full time at this interior design gig I probably wouldn’t have believed you”
– Diploma graduate Keeley Baird of Something More Design

What you’ll learn
You will explore colour, materials and finishes, spatial planning and construction techniques for a range of residential and commercial projects and creatively present your work using the latest industry software including AutoCAD, Sketchup, Revit, Photoshop and InDesign.
Throughout your course you will be exposed to a wide range of industry suppliers and products through our in-house seminar series and graduate with an exceptional industry focused portfolio of work ready to kick start your career as an Interior Designer.
What will I study?
There are 11 units of study in this course. For a complete list of unit competencies click here. These units can be credited towards our Advanced Diploma of Interior Design or towards a university degree with our partner UNSW Sydney.
SDS01 Foundations of Design and Colour
Embrace core skills from concept development and drawing to the elements and principles of design and composition. Develop an understanding of the design industry, work practices and opportunities.
Explore the inspiring world of colour and learn how to create dynamic schemes. Be introduced to colour theory, colour schemes and the psychology and manipulation of colour. Study the technicalities of paint and develop paint specifications.
SDS02 Interior Planning and Design
Learn the fundamentals of interior design, site evaluation, space planning for kitchens, bathrooms, living and outdoor spaces and lighting for a range of residential environments.
SDS03 Interior Schemes and 3D Visualisation
Explore all aspects of interior decoration including furniture, furnishings, upholstery and window treatments. Learn how to construct an interior scheme and present professional sample boards and specifications.
Visualise your designs in three dimensions through sketching, model making and perspective drawing. You will use rendering techniques to create professional presentations for your clients.
SDS04 Residential Decoration
Prepare for the world of professional design by working on a real residential project – from initial client briefing right through to the final presentation. Learn the business skills to get started in the industry.
SDS05 SketchUp for Designers
Create realistic floor plans and interior models using SketchUp then apply a rendering tool. This user-friendly program enables you to create photorealistic visuals that will enhance your portfolio.
SDS06A AutoCAD & Interior Construction
Learn the fundamentals of interior building construction and extend your drawing skills with AutoCAD. Create an impressive collection of precise residential floorplans and elevations to add to your portfolio.
SDS06R Revit for Designers
Learn how to navigate this essential industry standard BIM modelling software. Design and build sophisticated interior spaces and create realistic 3D presentations of your working model.
SDS07 Residential Planning
Design, plan and model residential spaces by manipulating 3D space using extensions, voids and stairs. You’ll present your ideas using a range of 2D and 3D media.
SDS08 Advanced Colour and Finishes
Learn what drives colour trends and future forecasting as you explore a diverse range of schemes for residential homes, exteriors and public spaces.
SDS09 Small Commercial Design
Extend your research, conceptualisation and design skills by completing a range of small commercial design projects including cafes and exhibition spaces. Create dynamic interior, exterior and commercial colour schemes and learn what drives colour trends and forecasting.
SDS10 Workplace Design
Explore the exciting and fast moving world of workplace design including office and retail spaces. Create a joinery package to showcase your documentation skills to potential employers.
SDS11 Hospitality Design
Develop and apply your conceptual design skills to a range of hospitality spaces including bars and restaurants. Prepare a professional resume, portfolio and exhibition space for graduation.
What are my options?
On Campus Day Class
- 2 days per week – 18 months
- Mon/Tues
- Contact our team to waitlist for other day options here
- 9:30am – 4:30pm
- Intakes in January or July
On Campus Day Class – Fast track
- 3 days per week – 12 months
- Wed, Thurs & Fri
- 9.30am – 4.30pm
- Intakes in January or July
Self Directed Online
- At your own pace for 2 – 3 years
- Start at anytime
- Delivered by our partner school Interior Design Online
- Visit their website here
Is this accredited?
Yes, you’ll receive a nationally accredited and internationally recognised qualification. Our career courses are developed by industry professionals and accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) – the Government’s national regulator for vocational education.
This course is recognised by the Design Institute of Australia (DIA). More information here.
Entry requirements
Domestic Student Entry Requirements
To enrol into the Diploma of Interior Design we suggest you join us for an Info Session or Open Day to learn more about the school and the content covered. You can then book an informal interview with our Course Advisor to ensure the course is a good fit.
You’ll need to bring a one page motivational statement to your interview (tell us about yourself, your passion for interiors and why you want to study at Sydney Design School). We’d ideally like you to show us a portfolio of creative work – drawings, photography or design projects you have worked on but this is optional.
All Diploma students will need a laptop computer that can be brought to class and used at home. We recommend students use a PC as this computer is compatible with all software used in the course. If you choose to use a MAC you will be using a different interface for AutoCAD and SketchUp and will need to purchase and install Windows to run Revit. Your computer will need a dedicated graphics card. Read more about our Computer Requirements here.
International Student Entry Requirements
To enrol into the Diploma of Interior Design you will need to meet the following requirements;
- Over 18 years of age
- Passionate about interiors
- Available to study on campus in Sydney
- You will need a strong command of the English language (verbal, written and comprehension) to complete your course successfully. If English is your second language you must provide evidence of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test here or an equivalent. Students must achieve a score of at least 6. You will be required to upload your test result as part of the application process online. During your video interview your English language proficiency will also be assessed by our Course Advisor.
- Eligible to apply for an International Student Visa
You’ll need to attach a one page motivational statement to your application (tell us about yourself, your passion for interiors and why you want to study at Sydney Design School). We’d ideally like you to include a portfolio of creative work – drawings, photography or design projects you have worked on but this is optional.
All Diploma students will need a laptop computer that can be brought to class and used at home. We recommend students use a PC as this computer is compatible with all software used in the course. If you choose to use a MAC you will be using a different interface for AutoCAD and SketchUp and will need to purchase and install Windows to run Revit. Your computer will need a dedicated graphics card. Read more about our Computer Requirements here.
What are the term dates?
We have two enrolment intakes in January (Term 1) and July (Term 3). Our terms follow the NSW School Holiday term structure.
2022
Term 1: Monday 31 January to Friday 8 April 2022
Term 2: Tuesday 26 April to Friday 1 July 2022
Term 3: Monday 18 July to Friday 23 September 2022
Term 4: Monday 10 October to Friday 9 December 2022
Note: You may start on a different day of the week depending on your choice of course option.
What is the cost?
Domestic Student Fees
- Total Course Fee: AUD $20,990 (GST free)
- You will need to purchase a Design Kit AUD $595 (GST inc) for the start of your course
- You will need to purchase a 12 month student subscription to SketchUp when you reach Unit 5 (approx AUD $93.50)
- Please allow $50 per term for incidental costs eg. photocopying.
Find out more about our flexible payment options here
Pay in instalments via Ezidebit, view break down of payments and fees here
This course is VET Student Loan approved, find out more here
International Student Fees
- Total Course Fee: AUD $24,990 (GST free)
- You will also need to purchase a Design Kit AUD $595 (GST inc)
- You will need to purchase a 12 month student subscription to SketchUp when you reach Unit 5 (approx AUD $93.50)
- Please allow $50 per term for incidental costs eg. photocopying.
Find out more about paying in instalments here
VET Student Loans
Yes this is course is approved for VET Student Loans for domestic students. Find out more about applying here.
Pathways to a degree
Sydney Design School and UNSW Sydney have partnered to offer graduates of the Diploma or Advanced Diploma of Interior Design the opportunity to apply for direct entry into the Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Hons) at UNSW Sydney saving them 12 months and 18 months of study respectively. You can commence the Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Hons) in February (T1) or September (T3).
What will I become?
On graduating our students enter a diverse range of professions;
- Interior Designer in a decorating, interior design or architecture firm
- Interior Stylist
- Colour Consultant
- Real Estate Staging Consultant
- CAD and SketchUp Draftsperson
- Interiors Consultant for product, furniture and lighting suppliers/ retail store
- Entrepreneur in your own business
Can I apply for credit?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the acknowledgement of a person’s competency, skills and knowledge which may have been acquired through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning.
Sydney Design School offers applicants the opportunity to apply for RPL and gain credit towards their course. There is a fee associated with an RPL application, please speak to our Course Advisor for more information.
Credit Transfer
Sydney Design School offers a Credit Transfer to any applicant who provides suitable evidence that they have successfully completed a unit or module at any Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
Please note: Credit and RPL for international students is assessed during the application process. Students must remain enrolled in a full-time load to satisfy visa requirements, regardless of the amount of credit awarded for any given semester.
When granting RPL or course credits Sydney Design School will provide the applicant with a written record for them to accept and will retain a written record of acceptance for 2 years after the applicant ceases to be an accepted student.
How do I apply?
If you would like to apply for our Diploma course you can do so online. Simply enter your details into our application form and press submit, no deposit payment is required at this time. When we receive your application, our team will be in touch to arrange an informal interview to ensure that this is the best course option for you personally.
For our conversation you’ll need to bring a one page motivational statement (tell us about yourself, your passion for interiors and why you want to study at Sydney Design School). We’d ideally like you to show us a portfolio of creative work – drawings, photography or design projects you have worked on, but this is completely optional.
We’ll talk through you through our flexible payment options (upfront or by instalment) and the VET Student Loan Scheme (if this is of interest).
Please note: International students will need to apply here.