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National code: MST50119

Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising

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Overview About this course

Gain transferrable skills to apply across the fashion industry filling skills gaps identified by employers. Learn to do research, pattern making, garment alternations and modifications while learning about sustainable fashion including upcycling.

This course is superseded. You can still enrol in this course, and you will be contacted if you need to transition into the next version when it is available.

Outcomes What You'll Gain

Learning Outcomes

Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:

  • Identify and use a range of fibres, textiles and fabrics commonly used in the fashion industry

  • Develop patterns and construct a range of complex garments

  • Perform a range of research to inform design concept and best practice

Course Outcomes

Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.

  • A nationally accredited Diploma level qualification

  • The ability to design and draw garments, creating an original collection

  • Confidence to liaise with creative peers and begin establishing a network of industry connections

  • Experience in using technology to create and develop products, create budgets and conduct market research

  • Strong pathways to continue your studies in fashion and enhance your career opportunities

Suitability Is This Course Right For You?

Entry requirements

Some courses require evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol

  • There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You can enrol today.

Entry recommendations

To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:

  • An interest in the fashion industry including garment design and production

  • Fundamental computer skills

  • The ability to budget for equipment, fabric and other consumables you need to complete your projects and create your garments

TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.

Pathways Future Career and Study Options

Career pathways

Our graduates go onto roles like:

Clothing Patternmaker

Clothing Patternmakers draw sets of master patterns following sketches, sample articles and design specifications, and cut out patterns for garments.

  • Full-time share Full-time workers usually work 35 hours or more a week (in all their jobs combined).

    55%

  • Employment size Employment size is the number of workers who do this as their main job.

    100 workers

  • Average age This is the average age of all workers in this job.

    47 years

  • Weekly pay Median earnings are shown for full-time, non-managerial employees paid at the adult rate, before tax or any amounts that are salary sacrificed. These figures are a guide to earnings only and should not be used to determine a wage rate.

    $1,300

  • Average full-time The average full-time hours that people in this role work each week.

    40 hours

  • Skill level rating Skill level ratings are based on the range and complexity of job roles. In general, the higher the skill level, the more formal education and training, previous experience or on-the-job training needed to be good at the job.

    Medium

  • Gender share

    86% female

  • Future growth The Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business estimates the likely change in number of workers in this role, or industry, over the next 5 years. Future growth is the likely percentage change compared to all other job roles.

    Moderate Growth

Other jobs include: assistant production manager, garment patternmaker, pattern grader, pattern cutter and textiles and fashion merchandiser.

Study pathways

Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:

Previous study 2 Courses

Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.

Further study 2 Courses

Advance your skills to take your career to the next level

Related study 0 Courses

Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.

The Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising does not have any related courses.

Your experience counts

At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.

Units Units taught in this course

Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 35 units of competency, including 9 core and 26 speciality units.

Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.

  • Interact and network with fashion industry participants MSTFD4006

  • Develop and present design concepts within specific guidelines MSTFD5010

  • Calculate cost estimates for TCF products MSTFD4023

  • Identify fabric performance and handling requirements MSTCL3001

TAFE NSW Services Facilities and Support

TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.

  • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service

  • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support

  • TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)

  • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service

  • TAFE NSW Libraries

  • Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential

  • Smarthinking - online access to a tutor

  • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

  • Student associations – get social with our student community

Delivery Options Find a Location to Enrol

On campus, online and blended study environments; at TAFE NSW your learning works with your lifestyle. Heart your favourites, compare courses and discover what works for you.