Campus Closures: Great Lakes, Kempsey, Taree, Port Macquarie, Nambucca CLC, Wauchope, Macksville, Coffs Harbour Education Campus, Coffs Harbour (Glenreagh Street) campuses will be closed for classes from Wednesday 21 May 2025 until further notice. Updates are available here.

    For domestic students, start your study journey here.

    Go to international home
    Back to Courses
    TAFE NSW Course

    Course code: CUA30720FD | CRICOS Code: 105773D

    Certificate III in Design Fundamentals (Fashion Design)

    Apply online How to apply

    OverviewAbout this course

    Begin your creative journey and build your design skills with the Certificate III in Design Fundamentals (Fashion Design). This course is great for those who want to explore their passion for design in a practical learning environment.
    Gain skills in illustration, colour theory, technical sketches, fashion design, CAD specific to the fashion industry, as well as some basic fashion industry knowledge. Learn where your design strengths are and how best to use them as you take the first step in a creative career.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to: 

    • Use fundamental design principles to design fashion products and textiles
    • Realise a creative project from conception to completion
    • Use and explore colour in design
    • Apply design principles to 2D forms
    • Use drawing as a tool to express and communicate ideas
    • Research fashion design history and trends

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in: 

    • Hand drawing and illustration techniques
    • 2D modelling and construction
    • Digital design
    • Applying colour theory to fashion design
    • Using industry-specific programs including Adobe Creative Cloud suite and CAD programs
    • Managing a range of design projects to meet client briefs

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • Enthusiasm for design and creativity
    • A passion to enter the design industry
    • The ability to take direction
    • A collaborative team player
    • The ability to draw or illustrate
    • Good communication skills

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Junior Assistant Fashion Designer
    • Junior Assistant Textile Designer

    SuitabilityInternational entry requirements

    At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.

    Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations

    As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.

    Additional costs

    Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.

    Structure and unitsWhat you will study

    At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.


    Packaging Rules Total number of units = 12 7 core units plus 5 elective units, of which: 3 must be from the electives listed below 2 may be from the remaining listed electives or any currently endorsed training package qualification or accredited course. Elective units must be relevant to the work environment and the qualification, Core Units CUAACD311 - Produce drawings to communicate ideas CUADES201 - Follow a design process CUADES302 - Explore and apply the creative design process to 2D forms CUADES304 - Source and apply design industry knowledge CUAPPR311 - Produce creative work CUAWHS312 - Apply work health and safety practices

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    PathwaysContinue your studies

    At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:


    Vocational study pathway

    Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW degree pathway

    From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways

    TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    Other university pathways

    You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.


    Keep learning with TAFE NSW

    Strengthen your expertise with a TAFE NSW fashion design study pathway:

    You are able to package two or more TAFE NSW courses together. This means you can plan your studies to achieve your career goals. When you apply for a TAFE NSW vocational pathway, you can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    ServicesCampus facilities and support services

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.

    We offer a range of support services including: 

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
    • Smarthinking - online access to a tutor
    • LinkedIn Learning - an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    We're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International