If you are design curious, keen to explore your creative future and live for a challenge, the Associate Degree in Design (Furniture) is the ideal choice for you. With hands-on design-focused learning and an emphasis on production and craft knowledge, this program offers a blend of topics that will enable you to design modern furniture. You will gain the skills to explore design through real-world industry projects with companies such as Moran Furniture and Schiavello and to investigate contemporary, cultural and environmental aspects of professional furniture design practice. You’ll connect with Australian and international industry mentors such as Marc Pascal and Damien Wright. These mentors will work with you to provide feedback on the commercial viability of your design work. You’ll also have the opportunity to compete in local and international design competitions such as London Design week, Fringe Furniture and Furnitex. This is a hands-on program where you will explore design solutions, taking into consideration aesthetics, technology, ergonomics, usability, stress analysis, sustainability and materials engineering, marketing and lean manufacturing. You will develop freehand and computer-aided drawing and illustration and develop your skills in everything from 3D ideas generation to prototypes that demonstrate and test furniture.

Furniture designers generally work on a freelance basis as an independant designer/maker. You may also find work with furniture manufacturers, interior design consultancies or large retail chains. Your work activities may include: liaising with clients and managing design projects drawing designs by hand or using computer aided design (CAD) software building full-size samples exploring and experimenting with different materials and unusual furniture-making methods researching new trends and classic styles to inspire and influence your designs. You may also contribute your expertise to other related professions, such as set design for theatre companies or displays for galleries and museums. Careers Upon graduation you will be able to design your career future, working for major production companies or as an independent designer in the global furniture industry in roles such as: designer production manager buyer retail specialist accountant and maintenance engineer. Professional recognition and accreditation You will be eligible to join the Design Institute of Australia (DIA) as a student member while studying. Graduates can apply for associate membership and full membership once you have obtained your professional experience. (Please note: eligibility for full membership is based on a points system.)