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Certificate IV in Commercial Arts (Graphic Design and Advertising)

Start a Career in Advertising Design

Every ad has a visual element. And it's more than pretty pictures. The design has to draw the eye, complement the copy, convey the offer and suit the brand. No wonder well-qualified graphic designers are in demand!

This graphic design certificate will give you the practical skills and understanding you need to forge a great career in advertising design.

    • Computer Finished Artist
    • Junior Graphic Designer
    • Illustrator
    • Visualiser
    • More design jobs
Quick Course Guide
Qualification Certificate IV in Commercial Arts Start dates Several start dates a year - enquire now about upcoming start dates
Course length 9 months full-time
18 months part-time
18 months distance education
Pre-requisites Year 10 or equivalent, or mature age
Location Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and by distance education Assessment Written and practical assignments
Delivered by CATC Design College (CATC) Finance options Lombard Finance financing & flexible payment options

Course Modules

  • Analyse Colour for Design
  • Use Business Technology
  • Access and Use the Internet
  • Produce Electronic Design (Fundamentals)
  • Apply Typography and Layout for Design
  • Produce Commercial Sketches for Graphic Design
  • Produce Electronic Imaging (Basic)
  • Create 2D Design (Basic)
  • Produce Finished Art (Basic)
  • Research Printing Processes (Theory)
  • Produce Finished art (Intermediate)
  • Prepare a Portfolio
  • Apply Professional Practice
  • Illustrate for Design (Black and White)
  • Produce Electronic Imaging (Intermediate)
  • Apply Fundamental Advertising Principles
  • Produce Commercial Illustrations
  • Create 2D Design (intermediate)
  • Illustrate for Design (Colour)
  • Produce Finished Art (Advanced)
  • Research Copyright Theory
  • Produce Electronic Design (Advanced)
Course subjects icon

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Early Exit Qualification

If you leave this course after completing a specified number of modules, you may be eligible for the Certificate III in Commercial Arts (Graphic Design and Desktop Publishing) qualification.

Contact a SEEK Learning consultant now for more information.


Locations & Start Dates

This course is offered both full-time and part-time at campuses in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and is also available by distance education.

There are several start dates each year, so you can start your course at a time that suits you. Contact a SEEK Learning consultant now for upcoming start dates.

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Fast, Flexible Study

Through CATC's flexible study options, you can finish your course more quickly than similar university offerings - and get your design career started sooner:

  • 9 months full-time
  • 18 months part-time
  • 18 months distance education

Industry Recognition

  • DIA - Design Institute of Australia
  • AGDA - Australian Graphic Design Association
  • BAD - Brisbane Art Directors Club

Finance Options Available

All full-time CATC courses are Austudy and Abstudy approved. Flexible payment options are available.

In addition, SEEK Learning offers eligible students a finance option from Lombard Finance in Australia, so you can pay for your design course over time.

Contact a SEEK Learning consultant now for more information.

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Project-based, Supportive Training

At CATC, you learn through project-based study. Classes are informal and enable you to focus on your areas of interest.

CATC offers modern, professional training facilities. Classrooms and studios provide an ideal environment in which to work. Both Mac and IBM compatible computers are available, along with the latest software and hardware.

You have plenty of one-on-one time with your tutors, and access to them outside of class hours.

Distance education students can meet with tutors and instructors on campus. CATC staff are contactable by phone or email, with a turnaround time of 24 hours.


Enjoy Real Employment Opportunities

Your CATC qualification gives you a real career advantage when you're starting out in design - thanks to the college's strong industry links.

Many employers approach CATC directly when looking to hire. As a CATC student, you have lifetime access to these job opportunities through CATC's job email service and jobs forum.

CATC graduates have been hired by:

  • Antipodes Clothing
  • Basis Advertising
  • Billabong
  • Beacon Lighting
  • David Jones
  • Disney
  • Dreamworld
  • IKEA
  • Reece Design
  • Sign-a-rama

During your course, you can even meet with industry professionals who will review your portfolio and provide advice - so you graduate with confidence and connections.

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About CATC Design School

CATC Design School is a highly respected specialist design college, well known for producing award-winning graduates with the skills employers demand.

The college's outstanding industry reputation - and the calibre of its training - lead to excellent employment outcomes for graduates.

CATC Design School (CATC) is a trading name of Think: Colleges Pty Ltd which is a wholly owned subsidiary of SEEK Ltd.

Find out more about CATC Design School.

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Enquire now to find out about course prices, finance options and more.

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