Program Details

The Bachelor of Design/Bachelor of Art Education brings together two flexible and broad reaching sets of skills. The design component of the program introduces students to the process of linking the ‘look and feel’ of an object, graphic or environment with its use or purpose. As we move into the 21st century, the study and practice of design is no longer primarily about making things pleasing to the eye. While importance of the aesthetic remains fundamental, good design also must address social, environmental and economic concerns.

The art education segment of the program ensures that students understand the value, meaning and history of art and design to people, culture and society. This segment provides an intellectual basis for the interpretation and interrogation of objects, images and environments in the world.

The degree offers students a unique opportunity to work as artists, designers or teachers in the areas of art and design. The Bachelor of Design/Bachelor of Art Education is a five-year full-time combined degree program. Professional practice placements are undertaken throughout the degree with design industry bodies and educational institutions. The degree offers comprehensive study of 2D, 3D, and 4D (time-based) courses as well as study in the areas of art and design history and theory, and computers. The degree ensures that students are experienced in curriculum development processes, current developments in visual arts and design contextualised within the practices of education.

The combined degree program aims to provide students with:
- Broad experience working across the different mediums of graphics/media, environment/special, applied/object, ceramics, textiles, and jewellery;
- An integrated approach to the study of art, design, art history and theory, and art education;
- A challenging and supportive learning environment;
- Opportunity to work with experienced teachers in a range of educational settings;
- Professional practice placements both in design industry organisations and NSW schools.

Having completed one of the most comprehensive degree programs offered at COFA, graduates are eligible to work in both creative and educational fields.  The combined degree in design and art education is fully accredited for secondary school teaching in both government and non-government schools in NSW, other Australian states and territories and overseas. Graduates can choose to work as: Visual arts, design and/or photography teachers; Other educational capacities, such as policy and curriculum development officers; Special program officers in community centres and welfare agencies. Using their design qualifications, graduates can find work in corporate design offices, design consultancies and/or private practice in Australia and overseas. More specifically, graduates can access work as: Graphic Designers; Media Designers; Illustrators; Interior Designers; Theatre Costume and Set Designers; Festival and Furnishing Managers and Designers; Ceramicists; Textiles Artists; Jewellers and Product Designers; Film and Television Production/Post Production Crew members.