Diploma of Interior Design

VOC01: DESIGN FOUNDATIONS

Develop a comprehensive understanding of the interior decoration and design industries while building a strong foundation in essential skills such as colour schemes and freehand sketching.

VOC02: SPACE AND SCALE

Explore key principles of residential planning across a range of residential spaces including kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces. Create lighting layouts and detailed floor plans to bring your ideas to life.

VOC03: INTERIOR SCHEMES

Build confidence in selecting and sourcing furniture, textiles, furnishings, upholstery and window treatments to meet diverse client briefs. Learn to present cohesive interior schemes.

VOC04: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND DECORATION

Consolidate your design skills by undertaking a real-world residential project – from initial briefing and space planning to the development of a complete interior furnishings scheme.

VOC05: 2D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS AND RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION

Master 2D drawing software to produce a complete documentation package. Learn the fundamental principles and practical applications of building structures, systems, the NCC and standards within the context of residential projects.

VOC06: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND PLANNING

Design, plan and model residential spaces that respond to changing client needs, lifestyles and environments. Learn how to manipulate 3D space through exploring extensions, voids and stairs.

VOC07: 3D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS

Build dynamic detailed 3D models of interior spaces using the latest industry software. Apply materials, textures, and lighting and create stunning photorealistic renders.

VOC08: CONCEPTUAL EXPLORATION AND TRANSLATION

Master the art of concept development and creative exploration as you deep dive into the design process – from developing a unique concept to transforming ideas into pop-up spaces.

VOC09: COMMERCIAL ENVIRONMENTS

Discover how thoughtful design can transform the way people shop, work and collaborate. Create inspiring retail environments, innovative office spaces, and dynamic training facilities.

VOC10: INTERIOR JOINERY DETAILING AND DOCUMENTATION

Design and produce a detailed, industry-standard joinery documentation package. Refine your drafting skills and effectively communicate your design intent.

VOC11: HOSPITALITY ENVIRONMENTS

Ignite your creativity and push the boundaries of design as you craft bold, experience-driven hospitality spaces – from buzzing bars to immersive restaurants.

Click here for a full list of competencies

If you have your heart set on an interior architecture degree we offer a pathway to university. Sydney Design School and the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) have partnered to offer graduates of the Diploma of Interior Design the opportunity to apply for direct entry into the Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Hons) saving them 12 months of study. To continue your studies with another university you would need to apply for recognition of prior learning. Please note international students will require a student visa.

This course is divided into 11 units.

• VOC01: DESIGN FOUNDATIONS |  Online $2,105 |  Virtual $1745
• VOC02: SPACE AND SCALE |  Online $1,890 |  Virtual $2,182
• VOC03: INTERIOR SCHEMES |  Online $1,890 |  Virtual $2,182
• VOC04: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND DECORATION |  Online $1,890 |  Virtual $2,181
• VOC05: 2D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS AND RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION |  $1,090 |  Virtual $1,417
• VOC06: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND PLANNING |  $1,090 |  Virtual $1,417
• VOC07: 3D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS | $1,090 |  Virtual $1,417
• VOC08: CONCEPTUAL EXPLORATION AND TRANSLATION |  $1,335 |  Virtual $1,697
• VOC09: COMMERCIAL ENVIRONMENTS |  $2,545 |  Virtual $3,082
• VOC10: INTERIOR JOINERY DETAILING AND DOCUMENTATION |  $730 |  Virtual $970
• VOC11: HOSPITALITY ENVIRONMENTS |  $1,335 |  Virtual $1,700
• Total course cost  |  AUD $16,990 (GST Free)* Virtual AUD $19,990 (GST Free)*

Virtual Studio

If you are in Australia, you will also need to purchase a Design Kit AUD $660 (GST inc) prior to your course start date. If you are located outside Australia, you will need to purchase the items independently. Please get in touch with our team to receive a list of the items needed. Please allow AUD $50 per term for incidental costs eg. photocopying.

Online only

If studying self paced online you can apply and pay unit by unit or upfront.

If you are in Australia, you will receive a curated Design Kit with all the tools you need to get started. It’s included in the cost of your first unit and shipped free within Australia.

If you are located outside Australia, Design Kit items are not included as part of the course. You will need to purchase these items independently (valued at approx. AUD $595) and your course fee will be reduced accordingly at checkout. For a complete list of items you will need, please click here.

Please allow AUD $50 incidental printing costs. You will need to purchase a 12 month student subscription to SketchUp (approx AUD $99) when you reach Unit 7.

We know the investment you’re making in your future is an important one, which is why we offer a range of payment options

The first 4 units are the same as Certificate IV in Interior Decoration and can be credited towards this course.

Option 1 – Pay Upfront

Pay for the total course cost at enrolment.

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 Instalments

Pay an initial deposit at the time of enrolment followed by instalments via Ezidebit. Please note, payment by instalment is available to Australian bank account holders only. For full details please click here.

If you require a longer instalment plan to pay for your first unit please contact our team on [email protected] for more options.

Note: You can choose to pay by bank transfer or credit card. A credit card transaction fee will apply.

You can study this course self-paced online or in our virtual studio with an Educator.

Self-Paced Online

You can study entirely online through our easy-to-use eCampus at a pace to suit your lifestyle. It’s accessible anywhere with an internet connection. The eCampus is filled with inspiring content, step-by-step video tutorials, and practical resources and videos of key content designed to support your creative learning.

You’ll work through a series of structured activities that guide you through residential and commercial projects, building your knowledge, confidence, and design thinking along the way.

Even though you are studying online you will have present your interim and final critiques for your projects to an educator live. They will give you feedback in real time via Zoom.

To stay on track, we recommend setting aside around 10 hours a week to complete this course over 2–3 years. You’ll have 6 months to complete each unit.

Virtual Studio

Virtual studio allows you to study from anywhere and is structured learning two days per week for 18 months from 9.30 – 4.30pm.  Virtual studio brings the energy of an in-person design studio into your home, with live demonstrations and feedback from our expert educators who bring their real-world experience into the classroom.

You’ll be able to ask questions, interact and share ideas with your peers in real time.

Whichever mode you select you will have access to our Industry and Careers Manager who will support you to get ready for your new career.

Our Careers Coach will help you step into the industry. You’ll get one on one support to craft a professional resume and identify job opportunities in your local area. You’ll also gain access to our exclusive online job board featuring interior design roles with Sydney-based studios. 

Graduate career opportunities

• Residential and Commercial Interior Designer in an interior design or architectural firm
• Interior Stylist
• Interiors Consultant for product, furniture and lighting suppliers
• Colour Consultant
• Visual Merchandiser
• Real Estate Staging Consultant
• CAD and SketchUp Draftsperson
• Entrepreneur in your own interior design  business

You don’t need any previous experience just enthusiasm and a passion for interiors! We start from the basics and gradually build your skills, knowledge and confidence. You will need basic computer knowledge and the ability to navigate the internet.

To study with Interior Design Online you will 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 phone 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.

It’s easy! Apply online today. Follow the link below to enter your details into our online application form. 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’ll 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 an Educator. You’ll receive a link to join a live online welcome session via Zoom when you’ll be given guided tour of our eCampus. If you live in Australia, your Design Kit will be posted to you and should arrive within one week of your enrolment, but you can still get started on your course straight away.

You’ll receive an accredited dual branded qualification from Sydney Design School and Interior Design Online. Our courses are accredited by the Australian government’s Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) RTO 91446, and are recognised by the Design Institute of Australia, the nation’s peak industry body for professional design.

Our qualifications are nationally recognised across Australia and internationally acknowledged as Australian government-approved programs. Please note that industry and regulatory requirements can vary between countries, so we recommend that prospective students check with their local industry bodies or regulators to understand how Australian qualifications are recognised and applied in their region.

This qualification can be credited towards the Advanced Diploma of Interior Design on campus at Sydney Design School.