IVOC01: DESIGN ORIGINS AND PRINCIPLES

Develop a comprehensive understanding of the interior decoration and design industries while building a strong foundation in essential skills such as colour schemes and freehand sketching.

IVOC02: FOUNDATIONS OF SPACE AND SCALE

Explore key principles of residential planning across a range of interior spaces. Create lighting layouts and bring your design concepts to life through 3D exploration.

IVOC03: INTERIOR SCHEMES

Build confidence in selecting and sourcing furniture, textiles, furnishings, upholstery and window treatments to meet diverse client briefs. Learn to present cohesive interior schemes.

IVOC04: DESIGN STUDIO 1: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND DECORATION

Consolidate your design skills by undertaking a real-world residential project—from initial briefing and space planning to the development of a complete interior furnishings scheme.

IVOC05: 2D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS, STRUCTURES, SYSTEMS AND STANDARDS

Master 2D drawing software to produce a complete documentation package. Learn the fundamental principles and practical applications of building structures, systems, the NCC and standards within the context of residential projects.

IVOC06: DESIGN STUDIO 2: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND PLANNING

Design, plan and model residential spaces that respond to changing client needs, lifestyles and environments. Learn how to manipulate 3D space through exploring extensions, voids and stairs.

IVOC07: 3D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS

Build dynamic detailed 3D models of interior spaces using the latest industry software. Apply materials, textures, and lighting and create stunning photorealistic renders.

IVOC08: DESIGN STUDIO 3: CONCEPTUAL EXPLORATION AND TRANSLATION

Master the art of concept development and creative exploration as you deep dive into the design process—from developing a unique concept to transforming ideas into pop-up spaces.

IVOC09: DESIGN STUDIO 4: COMMERCIAL ENVIRONMENTS

Discover how thoughtful design can transform the way people shop, work and collaborate. Create inspiring retail environments, innovative office spaces, and dynamic training facilities.

IVOC10: INTERIOR JOINERY DETAILING AND DOCUMENTATION

Design and produce a detailed, industry-standard joinery documentation package. Refine your drafting skills and effectively communicate your design intent.

IVOC11: DESIGN STUDIO 5: HOSPITALITY ENVIRONMENTS

Ignite your creativity and push the boundaries of design as you craft bold, experience-driven hospitality spaces – from buzzing bars to immersive restaurants.

Click here for a full list of competencies

If you have your heart set on an interior architecture degree we offer a pathway to university. Sydney Design School and the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) have partnered to offer graduates of the Diploma of Interior Design the opportunity to apply for direct entry into the Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Hons) saving them 12 months of study. To continue your studies with another university you would need to apply for recognition of prior learning. Please note international students will require a student visa.

This course is divided into 11 units and you can apply and pay unit by unit or upfront.

• IVOC01: DESIGN ORIGINS AND PRINCIPLES + DESIGN KIT |  $2,105
• IVOC02: FOUNDATIONS OF SPACE AND SCALE |  $1,890
• IVOC03: INTERIOR SCHEMES |  $1,890
• IVOC04: DESIGN STUDIO 1: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND DECORATION |  $1,890
• IVOC05: 2D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS, STRUCTURES, SYSTEMS AND STANDARDS |  $1,090
• IVOC06: DESIGN STUDIO 2: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND PLANNING |  $1,090
• IVOC07: 3D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS | $1,090
• IVOC08: DESIGN STUDIO 3: CONCEPTUAL EXPLORATION AND TRANSLATION |  $1,335
• IVOC9: DESIGN STUDIO 4: COMMERCIAL ENVIRONMENTS |  $2,545
• IVOC10: INTERIOR JOINERY DETAILING AND DOCUMENTATION |  $730
• IVOC11: DESIGN STUDIO 5: HOSPITALITY ENVIRONMENTS |  $1,335
• Total course cost  |  AUD $16,990 (GST Free)

Your Design Kit will be shipped free internationally. You will need to cover the cost of any GST, customs or duty that may be charged by your local authority. Please allow AUD $50 incidental printing costs. You will need to purchase a 12 month student subscription to SketchUp (approx AUD $99) when you reach Unit 7.

We know the investment you’re making in your future is an important one, which is why we offer a range of payment options

The first 4 units are the same as Certificate IV in Interior Decoration and can be credited towards this course.

Option 1 – Pay Upfront

Pay for the total course cost at enrolment.

Option 2 – Pay Unit by Unit

Pay for Unit 1 at time of enrolment and then pay for each subsequent unit when you finish your current unit.

Option 3 – Pay by Instalments

Pay an initial deposit at the time of enrolment followed by instalments via Ezidebit. Please note, payment by instalment is available to Australian students only. For full details please click here.

If you require a longer instalment plan to pay for your first unit please contact our team on [email protected] for more options.

Note: A credit card transaction fee will be applied at checkout for all payments.

This course is delivered entirely online through our easy to use eCampus, accessible anywhere with an internet connection. It’s filled with inspiring content, step-by-step video tutorials, and practical resources designed to support your creative learning.

You’ll work through a series of structured activities that guide you through the interior design process, building your knowledge, confidence, and design thinking along the way.

Our Educators, all practising professionals, are just a phone call or email away to answer questions and offer personalised guidance. Once you’ve completed your activities and assessments, simply upload your work to the eCampus for marking and feedback.

To stay on track, we recommend setting aside around 10 hours a week to complete this course over 2–3 years. You’ll have 6 months to complete each unit.

Our Careers Coach will help you step into the industry. You’ll get one on one support to craft a professional resume and identify job opportunities in your local area. You’ll also gain access to our exclusive online job board featuring interior design roles with Sydney-based studios. 

Graduate career opportunities

• Residential and Commercial Interior Designer in an interior design or architectural firm
• Interior Stylist
• Interiors Consultant for product, furniture and lighting suppliers
• Colour Consultant
• Visual Merchandiser
• Real Estate Staging Consultant
• CAD and SketchUp Draftsperson
• Entrepreneur in your own interior design  business

You don’t need any previous experience just enthusiasm and a passion for interiors! We start from the basics and gradually build your skills, knowledge and confidence. You will need basic computer knowledge and the ability to navigate the internet.

To study with Interior Design Online you will need a strong command of the English language (verbal, written and comprehension) and, if required, be able to score at least 6 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test here or an equivalent.

If required, our team will be in contact with you by phone to assess your English language proficiency, prior to an enrolment confirmation being sent. If your application is not successful due to your language ability your payment will be refunded in full.

It’s easy! Apply online today. Follow the link below to enter your details into our online application form. You can choose to pay for the course in full, by unit or by instalments.

Please allow one business day for our team to process your application and payment. You’ll then receive a confirmation of your enrolment via email including your login to our eCampus and payment receipt.

This will be followed by a welcome email from an Educator. You’ll receive a link to join a live online welcome session via Zoom when you’ll be given guided tour of our eCampus. Your Design Kit will be posted to you and should arrive within one week of your enrolment, but you won’t need the resources until much further into your course.

You’ll receive an accredited dual branded qualification from Sydney Design School and Interior Design Online. Our courses are accredited by the Australian government’s Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) RTO 91446, and are recognised by the Design Institute of Australia, the nation’s peak industry body for professional design.

Our qualifications are nationally recognised across Australia and internationally acknowledged as Australian government-approved programs. Please note that industry and regulatory requirements can vary between countries, so we recommend that prospective students check with their local industry bodies or regulators to understand how Australian qualifications are recognised and applied in their region.

This qualification can be credited towards the Advanced Diploma of Interior Design on campus at Sydney Design School.