Become a Stylist
Certificate IV in Design (Styling and Creative Direction) CUA40720
Accredited by Sydney Design School
Delivered entirely online
This immersive course will teach you how to become a Stylist and visual storyteller – from concept and planning, to bringing ideas to life. Learn how to style spaces, events and products with skill and confidence. Launch your freelance career in this creative industry with the skills to build connections and to professionally promote yourself.
Sydney Design School has developed this exclusively online qualification in consultation with three industry leading creative stylists – Jono Fleming @jonofleming, Dani Dean @themakehaus_ and Debbie Cohen from @thestylechapter.
We begin with design fundamentals, then focus on the business of styling and the areas of styling specialisation. You’ll graduate with a broad toolbox of practical, industry-relevant skills.
The Certificate IV in Design (Styling and Creative Direction) CUA40720 is delivered entirely online on behalf of our partner Sydney Design School. This internationally recognised qualification is accredited by the Australian Government (Registered Training Provider 91446). You’ll graduate as a professional Stylist.
Total Flexibility
Study 10 hours per week
Over 1 – 2 years
Accredited
Receive an internationally
recognised qualification
Careers Coach
Make a plan for your future
from day one of your course





What does the course cover?
Develop the design skills, techniques and creative ability required to style spaces, products, food, weddings and events for a range of clients and briefs. You’ll deep dive into the styling and creative direction process including how to source products, furniture and props.
Explore and establish your own visual brand and professional identity and learn the business skills required to become a freelance Stylist. Learn how to work and collaborate with others in the commercial, editorial, eCommerce, and branding spaces.
Throughout the course you’ll work through a series of case studies and activities to consolidate your knowledge and skills. The activities are developed by practising Stylists and are designed to simulate real projects so you feel confident entering the industry as a professional Stylist.
On completion of this course you will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the styling industry, design, colour and styling trends
- Be equipped to start a successful styling business, including creating your own visual brand identity, digital presence and visual storytelling style
- Have the ability to launch your career as a professional Interior and Property Stylist
- Style and capture engaging product, editorial and food imagery for a brand or editorial applications as a Product Stylist
- Bring your vision and concepts to life as a Wedding Stylist through innovative creative direction, styling and floristry
- Create memorable experiences as an Event Stylist for a range of events including corporate events, themed parties, media launches and brand activations
What are the Units of Study?
There are 6 units of study in this course. We start with the fundamentals and gradually build your knowledge and skills in the specialised areas of styling. There are no exams, you simply work through the resources, activities and consolidate your skills in the real life assessments.
Our Educators will provide detailed feedback on your assessments and if needed, you’re able to resubmit your work until you reach competency and move on to the next unit.
For a full list of unit competencies click here.
IDOSTY01: Fundamentals of Design and Colour
In this unit you’ll be introduced to the fundamental creative principles required to start your journey as a Stylist. We’ll expose you to the amazing world of colour and how it’s used effectively in styling projects.
Through a series of practical activities, you’ll explore 2D and 3D drawing techniques as well as design and creative thinking principles and processes.
You’ll then apply these new skills to develop a vision and concept in response to a styling brief.
IDOSTY02: The Creative Business
You’ll gain key insights and learn the business skills to work as an in-house stylist for a company, or in your own freelance business.
You’ll develop skills to effectively collaborate with others in the commercial, editorial, eCommerce, and branding spaces.
Establish your own visual brand and professional identity to promote yourself on any marketing or digital platform.
IDOSTY03: Interior and Property Styling
In this unit you’ll be empowered with the knowledge, processes and confidence to launch your career as a professional Interior and Property Stylist. You’ll be a visual story teller – sourcing, selecting and curating furniture, accessories and props to create a narrative to transform a space.
We’ll cover both the creative and business aspects of interior and property styling including the core design principles you’ll need to interpret a brief, manage and creatively direct the styling of an interior or a photo shoot.
IDOSTY04: Editorial, Product and Food Styling
In this unit you’ll learn how to style and capture engaging product, editorial and food imagery for a brand or editorial application. You’ll develop ideas for a product launch, in either a physical or digital environment, then bring your concept to life through innovative and artistic styling.
Learn how to develop collaborative working relationships with photographers and other allied professionals to create dynamic imagery that can be used across a range of media.
IDOSTY05: Wedding Styling
Learn how to become a Stylist in this growing, dynamic industry and bring your vision and concepts to life through innovative creative direction, styling and floristry.
You’ll explore, through real life case studies, a range of different wedding types including intimate, custom, beach and country weddings. You’ll conceptualise and direct the mood and be able to recommend source and specify all elements of a special day including table settings and napery, lighting, stationary, props and florals.
You’ll learn how to create production schedules, quotes and proposals for memorable weddings and commitment ceremonies.
IDOSTY06: Event Design and Styling
Use innovative styling and project management to create memorable experiences for a range of events including corporate events, themed parties, media launches and brand activations.
Prepare to work in the industry by consolidating your skills and knowledge and developing proposals for real life indoor and outdoor events.
Is this course accredited?
Yes, you’ll receive an internationally recognised, Australian Government accredited Certificate IV in Design (Styling and Creative Direction) CUA40715 from our partner Sydney Design School (RTO 91446). This vocational qualification is written and developed by industry professionals to ensure our graduates study the most relevant and current content. This course is accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), the national regulator for Australia’s vocational education and training sector.
How does it work?
Here’s some key facts about the course;
- You can start studying anytime, anywhere. You can apply online today.
- The course is divided into 6 separate units of study
- The course is entirely self paced, you can study and pay unit by unit to suit your lifestyle
- We estimate that you will need to spend approximately 10 hours per week studying to complete the course within 1 -2 years
- Some units can be credited towards the Diploma of Interior Design if wish to extend your study
How does studying online work?
Once you have applied, our team will process your enrolment on the same day or the next business day. They will send you a unique login to our eCampus and then you can start studying!
Our course is delivered by interactive video tutorials and quality online resources. You’ll study unit by unit, reading the content and using your Design Kit to complete the practical assessments. To have your work marked simply take a clear photo and upload it into our eCampus.
Your online Educator will give you detailed feedback. Once your work has been marked competent you can move on to the next unit.
Will I be supported?
Absolutely. Our passionate team of Educators are all practising Interior Designers, Architects, Stylists and specialists in online learning. They are on-hand throughout your study to give you guidance and support over the phone, on email or through video conferencing.
What are the entry requirements?
You don’t need any previous experience just enthusiasm and a passion for styling! We start from the basics and gradually build your skills, knowledge and confidence. You’ll need basic computer knowledge and the ability to navigate the Internet.
In terms of equipment you’ll need a computer or laptop with Microsoft Office, access to the Internet (preferably broadband), access to an A4 scanner / printer (Min 1000+ DPI) and a digital camera or smart phone.
You are required to upload your assessments as Pdfs, so you’ll need apps on your smart phone such as Turbo Scan or Genius Scan.
To study with Interior Design Online you’ll need a strong command of the English language (verbal, written and comprehension) and, if required, be able to score at least 6 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test here or an equivalent.
If required, our team will be in contact with you by telephone to assess your English language proficiency, prior to an enrolment confirmation being sent. If your application is not successful due to your language ability your payment will be refunded in full.
What does the course cost?
The course is separated into 6 units of study;
- Unit 1 Fundamentals of Design and Colour + Design Kit (free shipping)| $2,025
- Unit 2 The Creative Business | $890
- Unit 3 Interior and Property Styling | $1,190
- Unit 4 Editorial, Product and Food Styling | $1,190
- Unit 5 Wedding Styling | $1,190
- Unit 6 Event Design and Styling | $1,190
- Total course cost | $7,675 (GST Free)
Additional costs for students outside Australia
Shipping is free internationally but if you are studying outside Australia you will be responsible for paying any GST, customs charges or duties on arrival.
What are my payment options?
We know the investment you’re making in your future is an important one, which is why we offer a range of payment options.
Option 1 – Pay Upfront and Save
Pay for the total course cost at enrolment through PayPal or credit card and receive a 10% discount.
- Course cost | $7,675 (GST Free)
- Less 10% discount
- Total Course cost | $6,907.50 (GST Free)
Option 2 – Pay Unit by Unit
Pay for Unit 1 at time of enrolment and then pay for each subsequent unit when you finish your current unit.
Option 3 – Pay by Instalment
Pay an initial unit deposit through PayPal or credit card at the time of enrolment, followed by monthly instalments via Ezidebit. Please note, payment by instalment is available to Australian students only. For full instalment details, click here.
If you require a longer instalment plan to pay for your first unit please contact our team on info@interiordesignonline.edu.au for more options.
Note: A 2% PayPal processing fee will be applied at checkout for all payments.
Design Kit
You will need a Design Kit which includes all of the tools and equipment that you require to undertake this course. The fee for your Design Kit is included in the cost of your first unit. Shipping is free internationally but if you are studying outside Australia you will be responsible for paying any GST, customs charges or duties on arrival.
VET Student Loans
VET Student Loans are not available for our online courses. Students studying a Diploma course at our physical campus, Sydney Design School may apply.
What are my career options?
You will graduate with an industry-ready portfolio of work. Our Careers Service, IDO Connect, will help you to prepare a professional resume and will assist you with identifying job opportunities in your local area. You’ll also get access to our exclusive online job board.
We strongly encourage you to source work experience or positions in the interiors industry while you are studying to reinforce the new skills you are learning.
What will I become?
- Interior or Property Stylist
- Editorial, Product or Food Stylist
- Wedding Stylist
- Events Stylist
- Entrepreneur in your own styling business
How do I apply?
Follow the link below to enter your details into our online application form. You’ll then be directed to PayPal to pay for your course securely online. You can use a PayPal account or proceed as a guest using your credit card. You can choose to pay for the course in full, by unit or by instalments.
Please allow one business day for our team to process your application and payment. You will then receive a confirmation of your enrolment via email including your login to our eCampus and payment receipt. This will be followed by a welcome email from your personal online Educator. We will arrange a suitable time for a phone call to get to know you and give you a guided tour of our eCampus. Your Design Kit will be posted to you and should arrive within one week of your enrolment but you won’t need the resources until much further into your course.





Unit 1
Fundamentals of
Design and Colour
Unit 2
The Creative
Business
Unit 3
Interior and Property
Styling
Unit 4
Editorial, Product
and Food Styling
Unit 5
Wedding
Styling
Unit 6
Event Design
and Styling





“Many people are surprised to learn that styling is a learned skill. Yes it helps to have a creative eye but the fundamental elements can be taught. I love to see our creatives grow in confidence as we build their knowledge of aesthetics.”
– Educator and professional Interior Stylist Debbie Cohen



Excited to get started?
Apply NowBecome a Stylist
Certificate IV in Design
(Styling and Creative Direction)
CUA40720
Accredited by Sydney Design School
Delivered entirely online
This immersive course will teach you how to become a Stylist and visual storyteller – from concept and planning, to bringing ideas to life. Learn how to style spaces, events and products with skill and confidence. Launch your freelance career in this creative industry with the skills to build connections and to professionally promote yourself.
Sydney Design School has developed this exclusively online qualification in consultation with three industry leading creative stylists – Jono Fleming @jonofleming, Dani Dean @themakehaus_ and Debbie Cohen from @thestylechapter.
We begin with design fundamentals, then focus on the business of styling and the areas of styling specialisation. You’ll graduate with a broad toolbox of practical, industry-relevant skills.
The Certificate IV in Design (Styling and Creative Direction) CUA40720 is delivered entirely online on behalf of our partner Sydney Design School. This internationally recognised qualification is accredited by the Australian Government (Registered Training Provider 91446). You’ll graduate as a professional Stylist.
Total Flexibility
Study 10 hours per week
Over 1 – 2 years
Careers Coach
Make a plan for your future
from day one of your course
Accredited
Receive an internationally
recognised qualification



Course Content
Develop the design skills, techniques and creative ability required to style spaces, products, food, weddings and events for a range of clients and briefs. You’ll deep dive into the styling and creative direction process including how to source products, furniture and props.
Explore and establish your own visual brand and professional identity and learn the business skills required to become a freelance Stylist. Learn how to work and collaborate with others in the commercial, editorial, eCommerce, and branding spaces.
Throughout the course you’ll work through a series of case studies and activities to consolidate your knowledge and skills. The activities are developed by practising Stylists and are designed to simulate real projects so you feel confident entering the industry as a professional Stylist.
On completion of this course you will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the styling industry, design, colour and styling trends
- Be equipped to start a successful styling business, including creating your own visual brand identity, digital presence and visual storytelling style
- Have the ability to launch your career as a professional Interior and Property Stylist
- Style and capture engaging product, editorial and food imagery for a brand or editorial applications as a Product Stylist
- Bring your vision and concepts to life as a Wedding Stylist through innovative creative direction, styling and floristry
- Create memorable experiences as an Event Stylist for a range of events including corporate events, themed parties, media launches and brand activations
Units of Study
There are 6 units of study in this course. We start with the fundamentals and gradually build your knowledge and skills in the specialised areas of styling. There are no exams, you simply work through the resources, activities and consolidate your skills in the real life assessments.
Our Educators will provide detailed feedback on your assessments and if needed, you’re able to resubmit your work until you reach competency and move on to the next unit.
For a full list of unit competencies click here.
IDOSTY01: Fundamentals of Design and Colour
In this unit you’ll be introduced to the fundamental creative principles required to start your journey as a Stylist. We’ll expose you to the amazing world of colour and how it’s used effectively in styling projects.
Through a series of practical activities, you’ll explore 2D and 3D drawing techniques as well as design and creative thinking principles and processes.
You’ll then apply these new skills to develop a vision and concept in response to a styling brief.
IDOSTY02: The Creative Business
You’ll gain key insights and learn the business skills to work as an in-house stylist for a company, or in your own freelance business.
You’ll develop skills to effectively collaborate with others in the commercial, editorial, eCommerce, and branding spaces.
Establish your own visual brand and professional identity to promote yourself on any marketing or digital platform.
IDOSTY03: Interior and Property Styling
In this unit you’ll be empowered with the knowledge, processes and confidence to launch your career as a professional Interior and Property Stylist. You’ll be a visual story teller – sourcing, selecting and curating furniture, accessories and props to create a narrative to transform a space.
We’ll cover both the creative and business aspects of interior and property styling including the core design principles you’ll need to interpret a brief, manage and creatively direct the styling of an interior or a photo shoot.
IDOSTY04: Editorial, Product and Food Styling
In this unit you’ll learn how to style and capture engaging product, editorial and food imagery for a brand or editorial application. You’ll develop ideas for a product launch, in either a physical or digital environment, then bring your concept to life through innovative and artistic styling.
Learn how to develop collaborative working relationships with photographers and other allied professionals to create dynamic imagery that can be used across a range of media.
IDOSTY05: Wedding Styling
Learn how to become a Stylist in this growing, dynamic industry and bring your vision and concepts to life through innovative creative direction, styling and floristry.
You’ll explore, through real life case studies, a range of different wedding types including intimate, custom, beach and country weddings. You’ll conceptualise and direct the mood and be able to recommend source and specify all elements of a special day including table settings and napery, lighting, stationary, props and florals.
You’ll learn how to create production schedules, quotes and proposals for memorable weddings and commitment ceremonies.
IDOSTY06: Event Design and Styling
Use innovative styling and project management to create memorable experiences for a range of events including corporate events, themed parties, media launches and brand activations.
Prepare to work in the industry by consolidating your skills and knowledge and developing proposals for real life indoor and outdoor events.
Accreditation
Yes, you’ll receive an internationally recognised, Australian Government accredited Certificate IV in Design (Styling and Creative Direction) CUA40715 from our partner Sydney Design School (RTO 91446). This vocational qualification is written and developed by industry professionals to ensure our graduates study the most relevant and current content. This course is accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), the national regulator for Australia’s vocational education and training sector.
How does it work?
Here’s some key facts about the course;
- You can start studying anytime, anywhere. You can apply online today.
- The course is divided into 6 separate units of study
- The course is entirely self paced, you can study and pay unit by unit to suit your lifestyle
- We estimate that you will need to spend approximately 10 hours per week studying to complete the course within 1 -2 years
- Some units can be credited towards the Diploma of Interior Design if wish to extend your study
How does studying online work?
Once you have applied, our team will process your enrolment on the same day or the next business day. They will send you a unique login to our eCampus and then you can start studying!
Our course is delivered by interactive video tutorials and quality online resources. You’ll study unit by unit, reading the content and using your Design Kit to complete the practical assessments. To have your work marked simply take a clear photo and upload it into our eCampus.
Your online Educator will give you detailed feedback. Once your work has been marked competent you can move on to the next unit.
Will I be supported?
Absolutely. Our passionate team of Educators are all practising Interior Designers, Architects, Stylists and specialists in online learning. They are on-hand throughout your study to give you guidance and support over the phone, on email or through video conferencing.
Entry Requirements
You don’t need any previous experience just enthusiasm and a passion for styling! We start from the basics and gradually build your skills, knowledge and confidence. You’ll need basic computer knowledge and the ability to navigate the Internet.
In terms of equipment you’ll need a computer or laptop with Microsoft Office, access to the Internet (preferably broadband), access to an A4 scanner / printer (Min 1000+ DPI) and a digital camera or smart phone.
You are required to upload your assessments as PDFs, so you’ll need apps on your smart phone such as Turbo Scan or Genius Scan.
To study with Interior Design Online you’ll need a strong command of the English language (verbal, written and comprehension) and, if required, be able to score at least 6 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test here or an equivalent.
If required, our team will be in contact with you by telephone to assess your English language proficiency, prior to an enrolment confirmation being sent. If your application is not successful due to your language ability your payment will be refunded in full.
Course Cost
The course is separated into 6 units of study;
- Unit 1 Fundamentals of Design and Colour + Design Kit (free shipping)| $2,025
- Unit 2 The Creative Business | $890
- Unit 3 Interior and Property Styling | $1,190
- Unit 4 Editorial, Product and Food Styling | $1,190
- Unit 5 Wedding Styling | $1,190
- Unit 6 Event Design and Styling | $1,190
- Total course cost | $7,675 (GST Free)
Additional costs for students outside Australia
Shipping is free internationally but if you are studying outside Australia you will be responsible for paying any GST, customs charges or duties on arrival.
Payment Options
We know the investment you’re making in your future is an important one, which is why we offer a range of payment options.
Option 1 – Pay Upfront and Save
Pay for the total course cost at enrolment through PayPal or credit card and receive a 10% discount.
- Course cost | $7,675 (GST Free)
- Less 10% discount
- Total Course cost | $6,907.50 (GST Free)
Option 2 – Pay Unit by Unit
Pay for Unit 1 at time of enrolment and then pay for each subsequent unit when you finish your current unit.
Option 3 – Pay by Instalment
Pay an initial unit deposit through PayPal or credit card at the time of enrolment, followed by monthly instalments via Ezidebit. Please note, payment by instalment is available to Australian students only. For full instalment details, click here.
If you require a longer instalment plan to pay for your first unit please contact our team on info@interiordesignonline.edu.au for more options.
Note: A 2% PayPal processing fee will be applied at checkout for all payments.
Design Kit
You will need a Design Kit which includes all of the tools and equipment that you require to undertake this course. The fee for your Design Kit is included in the cost of your first unit. Shipping is free internationally but if you are studying outside Australia you will be responsible for paying any GST, customs charges or duties on arrival.
VET Student Loans
VET Student Loans are not available for our online courses. Students studying a Diploma course at our physical campus, Sydney Design School may apply.
Career Outcomes
You will graduate with an industry-ready portfolio of work. Our Careers Service, IDO Connect, will help you to prepare a professional resume and will assist you with identifying job opportunities in your local area. You’ll also get access to our exclusive online job board.
We strongly encourage you to source work experience or positions in the interiors industry while you are studying to reinforce the new skills you are learning.
What will I become?
- Interior or Property Stylist
- Editorial, Product or Food Stylist
- Wedding Stylist
- Events Stylist
- Entrepreneur in your own styling business
How do I apply?
Follow the link below to enter your details into our online application form. You’ll then be directed to PayPal to pay for your course securely online. You can use a PayPal account or proceed as a guest using your credit card. You can choose to pay for the course in full, by unit or by instalments.
Please allow one business day for our team to process your application and payment. You will then receive a confirmation of your enrolment via email including your login to our eCampus and payment receipt. This will be followed by a welcome email from your personal online Educator. We will arrange a suitable time for a phone call to get to know you and give you a guided tour of our eCampus. Your Design Kit will be posted to you and should arrive within one week of your enrolment but you won’t need the resources until much further into your course.



Unit 1
Fundamentals of
Design and Colour
Unit 2
The Creative
Business
Unit 3
Interior and Property
Styling
Unit 4
Editorial, Product
and Food Styling
Unit 5
Wedding
Styling
Unit 6
Event Design
and Styling



“Many people are surprised to learn that styling is a learned skill. Yes it helps to have a creative eye but the fundamental elements can be taught. I love to see our creatives grow in confidence as we build their knowledge of aesthetics.”
– Educator and professional Interior Stylist
Debbie Cohen



Excited to get started?
Apply Now