| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-02-01 | - |
| 2024-07-01 | - |
Program Overview
RMIT University's Associate Degree in Design (Furniture) equips students with the skills and knowledge to create innovative and sustainable furniture designs. Through hands-on projects and industry collaborations, students develop expertise in design methods, manufacturing technologies, and critical thinking. Graduates are prepared for careers in furniture design, production, and related fields, with a focus on sustainability and contemporary design practices.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Associate Degree in Design (Furniture) program at RMIT University provides a foundation in furniture design, focusing on sustainable and contemporary furniture and related products. It combines real-life industry projects and design theory with hands-on production. Students will develop skills in design, manufacturing technologies, and processes, informed by cultural and social factors.
Objectives:
The key objectives of the program are to:
- Equip students with the knowledge and skills to create innovative and original furniture designs.
- Foster a strong understanding of design methods, manufacturing technologies, and processes.
- Develop students' critical and conceptual thinking skills.
- Encourage students to address contemporary, cultural, and environmental aspects of professional furniture design practice.
Outline:
Program Content and Structure:
The program is delivered over four semesters, with each semester consisting of approximately 23 hours of class time per week and an additional 15 hours of independent study and research.
Course Schedule:
- Semester 1: Introduction to Design, Design Fundamentals, Design Studio 1, CAD for Design.
- Semester 2: History of Design, Design Theory, Design Studio 2, Digital Fabrication.
- Semester 3: Furniture Construction, Material Explorations, Design Studio 3, Sustainability in Design.
- Semester 4: Professional Practice, Design Studio 4, Capstone Project, Design Communication.
Individual Modules:
Design Studio 1:
This module introduces the fundamental principles of design, including form, function, color, and composition. Students will work on a series of practical projects to develop their design skills.
Design Studio 2:
This module builds on the skills learned in Design Studio 1 and focuses on the development of furniture design concepts. Students will work on a range of design projects, from concept sketches to detailed technical drawings.
Design Studio 3:
This module focuses on the practical aspects of furniture design, including material selection, construction techniques, and finishing. Students will work on a series of projects that involve building furniture pieces from scratch.
Design Studio 4:
This module is the capstone project for the program. Students will work on a major design project that integrates all the skills and knowledge they have acquired throughout the program.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Students will be assessed through a combination of coursework and exams. Coursework will include design projects, reports, presentations, and essays. Exams will be in the form of written exams and oral presentations.
Assessment Criteria:
The assessment criteria for the program are based on the following:
- Creativity and originality
- Technical proficiency
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Communication skills
- Professionalism
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program is taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, workshops, and studio sessions. Lectures will provide students with the theoretical knowledge and background information they need to excel in the program. Tutorials will provide students with the opportunity to ask questions and receive feedback on their work. Workshops will provide students with hands-on experience in the design and production of furniture. Studio sessions will provide students with the space and time to work on their design projects.
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of experienced and highly qualified faculty members. The faculty includes designers, engineers, and architects who are actively involved in the furniture industry.
Unique Approaches:
The program offers a number of unique approaches to teaching furniture design. These approaches include:
- A focus on sustainability: The program emphasizes the importance of sustainable design practices. Students will learn about the environmental impact of furniture production and will be encouraged to use sustainable materials and processes in their designs.
- A focus on collaboration: The program encourages students to collaborate with each other and with industry professionals. Students will work on team projects and will have the opportunity to present their work to industry professionals.
- A focus on real-world experience: The program includes a number of industry-based projects. Students will work on live projects with real clients and will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the furniture industry.
Careers:
Career Paths:
Graduates of the Associate Degree in Design (Furniture) program will be prepared for a variety of careers in the furniture industry. These careers include:
- Furniture designer
- Production manager
- Buyer
- Retail specialist
- Account manager
Opportunities:
Graduates of the program will have the opportunity to work for major production companies or as independent designers in the global furniture industry. They will also be eligible to join the Design Institute of Australia as student members and can apply for associate membership and full membership once they have obtained professional experience.
Outcomes:
Graduates of the program will have the skills and knowledge to:
- Design and develop innovative and original furniture products.
- Manage furniture production processes.
- Communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders.
- Work independently and as part of a team.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the furniture industry.
