Two flexible ways to earn your award-winning Sydney Design School qualification. Choose the one that fits your lifestyle and the way you like to learn.
SELF PACED WITH INTERIOR DESIGN ONLINE
VIRTUAL STUDIO WITH SYDNEY DESIGN SCHOOL
What’s the difference between self-paced online and virtual studio study?
Self-paced online study lets you start any time, learn from anywhere and pay unit by unit, with support from experienced Educators whenever you need it. Our virtual studio is a real-time online class, two days a week, run to a set timetable on Sydney time. Both lead to exactly the same, nationally accredited, Sydney Design School qualification.
ONLINE DELIVERY MODES
Compare your options
Both pathways deliver identical course content, the difference is how and when you study. Compare the two online modes below to find your best fit.
MOST FLEXIBLE
Self-Paced Online
Study on your own schedule, starting any time, from anywhere in the world, and paying unit by unit as you go.
Best suited to busy people working or studying around family life who need to set their own schedule.
- Support from Educators via email, phone and video call
- Live video critiques by an industry expert
- Access to our annual Design Day Out event and live webinars
- Careers coaching from day one
- Graduate with an industry-ready portfolio
OFFERED BY INTERIOR DESIGN ONLINE
MOST STRUCTURED
Virtual Studio
The energy of a design studio, streamed live to wherever you are, with real-time classes two days a week from 9.30am to 4.30pm Sydney time.
Best suited to parents and social learners. Classes run during NSW public school terms and pause over school holidays.
- Live demonstrations from multiple camera views
- Small class sizes and a vibrant creative community
- Good time zone fit for Perth, NZ, Fiji, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Manila, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul Check your timezone
- Careers coaching from day one
- Graduate with an industry-ready portfolio
OFFERED BY SYDNEY DESIGN SCHOOL STARTING 14 OCTOBER
QUALIFICATIONS
Choose your course
The Certificate IV and Diploma are both available self-paced online or through our virtual studio. Think of them as building blocks: complete your Certificate IV first, then add the extra Diploma units whenever you’re ready to go further.
MSF40122 – NATIONALLY ACCREDITED
Certificate IV in Interior Decoration
Become a professional Interior Decorator with this comprehensive course thats gives you the skills and confidence to develop a complete interior scheme for a client.
SELF PACED WITH INTERIOR DESIGN ONLINE
VIRTUAL STUDIO WITH SYDNEY DESIGN SCHOOL
MSF50222 – NATIONALLY ACCREDITED
Diploma of Interior Design
Become a professional Interior Designer. This course covers residential and commercial design skills using real client projects and the latest industry software.
SELF PACED WITH INTERIOR DESIGN ONLINE
VIRTUAL STUDIO WITH SYDNEY DESIGN SCHOOL
Frequently asked questions
Can I start at any time?
Self-paced online has no fixed intake dates, so you can apply whenever suits you. Enrolments are processed within one business day, and you can start as soon as you receive your unique login and welcome email. Virtual studio runs on fixed intakes instead, generally starting in April or October each year.
How does self-paced online actually work?
You work through your course on our eCampus at your own pace, moving unit by unit through video lessons, project briefs and assessments. For each project, you present your work to an industry expert Educator on a live video call, just like presenting to a real client, and get assessed with live feedback. You can also message your Educator any time you need support.
How does virtual studio actually work?
You join live Zoom classes two days a week, watching your Educator demonstrate techniques in real time with multiple camera views, then working through the same project briefs as on-campus students. Classes stay small, so you’re learning alongside a close-knit group of fellow creatives.
What do I need to get started?
Both modes need a reliable computer, internet connection and basic digital skills like email and saving PDFs. Virtual studio also requires a webcam and microphone for live Zoom classes. If you’re doing the Diploma in either mode, you’ll need a computer capable of running design software such as AutoCAD and SketchUp. Our Course Advisors can confirm the exact specifications during your application.
Can I study online from outside Australia?
Yes, in both modes. Self-paced online has no time zone restrictions, so you can study from anywhere in the world. Virtual studio also welcomes international students, but classes run live from 9.30am–4.30pm Sydney time, so it suits some time zones better than others. Good fit: Perth, New Zealand, Fiji, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Manila, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul.
Will I have support from a real Educator?
Yes. Self-paced online learners have access to experienced Educators by email, phone or video call when they need feedback, plus a dedicated careers coach from day one.
Can I apply for a VET Student Loan?
VET Student Loans are available for eligible students studying the Diploma of Interior Design through our virtual studio or on campus, not for self-paced online. Our Course Advisors can confirm your eligibility and talk you through the options.
Can I switch between delivery modes?
Yes. You can switch between self-paced online and virtual studio, as long as you have completed your current unit. You’re never locked into one mode for your whole course. Bear in mind that virtual studios classes run twice per year on a fixed schedule.
TESTIMONIAL
“People assume online learning is boring or disconnected, but the virtual studio at SDS is the complete opposite. It’s extremely hands-on, engaging and honestly so much fun.”
Gabby Diaz – Virtual Studio Diploma of Interior Design graduate. Student work featured from her hospitality project.
VIRTUAL STUDIO WITH SYDNEY DESIGN SCHOOL
Ready to design your future?
Two pathways, one award-winning school. Choose how you want to start.
SELF PACED WITH INTERIOR DESIGN ONLINE
VIRTUAL STUDIO WITH SYDNEY DESIGN SCHOOL
