Top 5 Degrees for Creative People

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If you are a creative person, traditional careers might not be very appealing to you. You need a job that will help you let your inner creativity out in your everyday life. 

Today, in order to pursue a career in the ever-changing creative world, you need to have a set of creative skills that will help you succeed in such a competitive field. Just like any other career, the best way to start off your journey would be to pursue a degree in your interested field, to make yourself more attractive to employers. 

The type of degree that is best suited for you will however, depend on the type of creative skills you have or wish to have and which career you want to pursue in the future. 

Down below, we have provided a list of common degrees that will help you develop and unleash the creativity in you, to help you figure out which one is best suited for you. 

1. Graphic Design

What is Graphic Design?

Graphic Design involves the production of visuals for a range of mediums, including websites, social media, advertisements, logos, products, magazines, brochures and many more. They put together the visuals in an appealing layout to make it attractive to the audiences. This degree consists of learning the use of highly technical softwares and applications used in digital marketing. This degree will help develop both technical and storytelling techniques in visual content design. As a graphic designer you are typically required to be proficient in Adobe Creative Suite C++, Java, and etc.

Career Opportunities for Graphic Design Graduates

Having a degree in graphic design will open your door to multiple industries, as every industry or sector out there, needs graphic designers to create their visual content. 

Listed below are some of the common career opportunities you have with a Bachelors in Graphic Design.

  • Graphic Designer
  • Art Director 
  • Digital Media Designer
  • Freelancer
  • Interactive Designer 
  • Advertising
  • Publication Designer
  • Illustrator

Average Salary for Graphic Design Graduates

The average salary for a graphic designer in Australia is $83,796 per year. Salaries for entry level jobs start at $67, 500 per year. Graphic designers with extensive experience in the industry however earn an average salary of $107,201 per year. 

In short, the average salary range for graphic designers can go as low as $67,500 per year and as high as $107,201 per year. 

Top 3 Universities to Study Graphic Design in Australia

RMIT University

Image Credits: RMIT University

RMIT’s Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) will equip you to work as a communication designer in a variety of domains and sectors, such as graphic design, advertising, branding, and illustration consultancies, as well as design and communication units within corporate, government, and non-government organisations.

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Design (Communication Design)

Intake

February | July 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

Image Credits: UTS

In UTS’s Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication, students will learn everything from the history and theory of visual culture and technology to producing cutting-edge creative work in digital media, photography, editorial design, information visualisation, web design, wayfinding, mobile apps, code, interaction design, machine learning, motion graphics, the internet of things, and 3D technologies like VR/AR and 3D printing.

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication

Intake

February | July | November

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

Image Credits: QUT

QUT’s Bachelor of Design (Visual Communication) focuses on helping students develop both practical and theoretical knowledge of graphic design, typography, image creation, information design, experience design, motion design, branding, and interaction design. 

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Design (Visual Communication)

Intake

February | July 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

2. Architecture

What is Architecture?

A degree in Architecture can be a rewarding study option for those of you who love drawing and are especially passionate about designing functional and aesthetic structures and buildings. In addition to being highly creative, having a strong suite in attention to detail will also help you succeed in this career. Architects are often required to communicate with clients during the design and production of a structure, so that their designs meet the desire and vision of the client. Architecture students spend a lot of time in studios and design laboratories learning the design process. They are also taught how to interact, communicate and work with clients. 

Please keep in mind that in order to become a registered Architect in Australia you are required to also complete a Master’s Degree (2 years) in addition to a Bachelor’s Degree. You will also be required to obtain 12 months work experience and pass an architecture practice examination before registration. 

Career Opportunities for Architecture Graduates

As an Architecture graduate, you have opportunities that go way beyond just becoming a registered Architect. You will be qualified to assist architects and other built environment professionals in the design, documentation and procurement of buildings, which does not need registration as an architect. You can find employment in a variety of sectors including:

  • Government agencies 
  • Design practices and studios (urban design, interior design, etc)
  • Statutory bodies
  • Commercial Development Companies
  • Building Product Manufacturing and Distribution Companies

Average Salary for Architecture Graduates

The average salary for Architects in Australia is $82,953 per year. Salaries for entry level jobs start at $67, 500 per year. The highest paying cities for Architects in Australia include Canberra and Melbourne with average salaries of $162,103 and $106,663 respectively.

Top 3 Universities to Study Architecture in Australia

The University of Sydney

Image Credits: University of Sydney

The University of Sydney is the no.1 university in Australia for Architecture according to the QS Rankings by Subject 2021. University of Sydney’s Bachelor of Design (Visual Communication) revolves around extensive time spent in studios learning aspects of the design process relating directly to the practice of the architectural profession, in addition to lectures, seminars and workshops. 

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Design in Architecture

Intake

February | July 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

RMIT University

Image Credits: RMIT

In RMIT’s Bachelor of Architectural Design, you will study the essential skills required of an architect and architectural designer from globally recognised and award-winning architects as well as visiting national and international experts, consultants, and specialists.

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Architectural Design

Intake

February | July 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

Griffith University

Image Credits: Griffith University

Griffith University’s Bachelor of Architectural Design is accredited by  Australian Institute of Architects / Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) / Board of Architects of Queensland as an approved pathway program to the professionally accredited Master of Architecture. This course is highly focused on environmental sustainability and urban design with a combination of classroom studies, studio work, fieldwork and practical experience. 

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Architectural Design

Intake

March | July 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

3. Communication

What is Communication?

Communication is one of the most versatile fields with broad career opportunities. Communication involves the creation of messages and communicational content that will produce positive outcomes for companies/brands, such as marketing, public relations, media communication, and more.

In order to become a successful communicator you need to be creative enough for your messages to catch the attention of the audiences and stay in their minds. Communication messages can be delivered through various mediums, such as digital media, broadcast media, and more. Each of these mediums require a different set of creative skills. 

Fluent oral and written communication skills is in fact, one of the top qualities employers look for in candidates when hiring. A degree in communication gives you the position to stand out from the rest of the candidates. Communication degrees are mainly focused on marketing, public relations, media and digital media as well. In all of these majors you will focus on public speaking, storytelling, critical and strategic thinking. 

Career Opportunities for Communication Graduates

With a communications degree, you can work in almost all sectors at a variety of positions, according to what you are passionate about the most. 

Here are some of the most common careers Communication graduates pursue;

  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Social Media Manager
  • Media Planner
  • Event Planner
  • Journalist 
  • Brand Manager
  • Advertiser
  • Content Creator 

Average Salary for Communication Graduates

The average salary for Communication Graduates in Australia is $68,400 per year. The average salaries for different jobs in the communications field are however very diverse. For example, the average salary of a social media coordinator is $61,993 per year while the average salary for Marketing Communication Manager can go upto $99,949 per year. 

Top 3 Universities to Study Communication in Australia

Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

Image Credits: QUT

QUT’s Bachelor of Communication programme offers 5 different majors that students can specialize in, including Public Relations and Advertising, Digital Media, Entertainment Industries, Journalism, and Professional Communication. Moreover, you can also choose to get a double degree by combining two majors. 

This course provides students with real-world learning experience from the first semester itself to fully equip students for the working world. 

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Communication

Intake

February | July 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

University of Wollongong (UOW)

Image Credits: UOW

UOW’s Bachelor of Communication and Media program is specifically designed for students who want a career in digital and social media, journalism, screen media production, marketing, advertising, and public relations.

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Communication and Media 

Intake

February | May | August 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

Western Sydney University

Image Credits: Western Sydney University

Western Sydney University’s Bachelor of Communication offers its students the option to major in areas including Journalism, Advertising, Public Relations or Screen Media which will help students develop job-ready skills in communication, digital media, media production, research, and innovation. 

 

This program is accredited by The Media Federation of Australia (MFA), which represents over 90% of all media agency placed media billings in Australia, and the Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA), which represents and provides professional support and recognition to practitioners and consultants nationwide.

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Communication

Intake

March | July 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

4. Marketing

What is Marketing?

Marketing involves the role of developing different strategies and tactics to market a company/brand/organization or product. Hence marketing roles encompass a lot of brainstorming and exploring creative and innovative ideas, which makes it an excellent choice for creative people. Whether it’s an inspirational Nike advertisement or a viral post on social media, creative marketers are always behind these marketing masterpieces. 

Marketers who can come up with material that stand out from the thousands of messages from brands that we are bombarded with everyday, are definitely in high-demand in today’s market driven world.

Marketing degrees offer students with a wide range of subjects, ranging from the fundamentals of business, to consumer behaviour, advertising campaigns and social media marketing as well. Throughout the degree, students are often able to build their creative portfolio with different projects and assignments they take on. 

Career Opportunities for Marketing Graduates

Marketing provides graduates the opportunity to venture into almost every sector out there. Some of the common jobs that appeal to marketing graduates include;

  • Marketing Coordinator 
  • Media planner
  • Brand manager
  • Marketing research consultant
  • Social media specialist
  • Creative director 
  • Chief Marketing Officer

Average Salary for Marketing Graduates

Marketing professionals in Australia typically earn an average salary of approximately $102,000 per year. Salaries range from as low as $73,400 per year to as high as high $169,000 per year. 

Top 3 Universities to Study Marketing in Australia

University of Melbourne

Image Credits: University of Melbourne

University of Melbourne is ranked as the no.3 university in Australia and no.41 in the world according to QS World University Ranking 2021. In University of Melbourne’s Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Marketing, you will learn the fundamentals of advertising, product and brand management, strategic marketing, market research, relationship marketing, global marketing, electronic marketing and buyer behaviour.

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing)

Intake

February | July

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

University of New South Wales (UNSW)

Image Credits: UNSW

UNSW offers a marketing major in a range of bachelors programs including Bachelor of Commerce. 

At UNSW, you will also be able to access a suite of experiences such as internships, network and events, and global opportunities through UNSW’s “Career Accelerator” which will help build your professional skills. 

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing)

Intake

February | May | September 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

Edith Cowan University

Image Credits: Edith Cowan University

Edith Cowan University also offers a marketing major in a selected range of programs including, Bachelor of Commerce, which is the most common program. This degree is accredited by Australian Marketing Institute (AMI). 

With this program, you will learn how to attract new consumers, keep existing ones, and improve your relationship with the product, brand, or organisation. You will also  get hands-on experience with both conventional and digital media, utilising industry-standard software, and build portfolios to show off your skills.

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing)

Intake

March | July 

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

5. Fashion Design

What is Fashion Design?

Fashion designing is the art of applying the creativity of design, aesthetics and clothing construction for the creation of clothing and other forms of accessories. A degree in fashion designing can be very well suited for people who are interested in both art and the fashion industry. A degree in fashion design gives you the conceptual knowledge and understanding of garment making skills and transforming your creative vision into fashion statements, to kickstart your career as a fashion designer. 

In a fashion design degree, you will be spending a lot of time in studios learning concepts of fashion illustration and creating your own garments. 

Career Opportunities for Fashion Design Graduates

Fashion graduates take up careers in a range of sectors in the fashion industry. The most common and rewarding jobs fashion design students venture into are as follows;

  • Womenswear/Menswear designer
  • Fashion producer
  • Creative director
  • Textile Designer 
  • Print Designer 
  • Fashion Forecaster 

Some graduates who are brave and creative enough start their own local and international fashion brands. 

Top 3 Universities to Study Fashion Design in Australia

RMIT University

Image Credits: RMIT University

RMIT’s School of Fashion and Textile is globally recognized and is ranked among the Business of Fashion’s The Best Fashion Schools in the World, Undergraduate Fashion Design Programs in 2019.

In RMIT’s Bachelor of Design (Fashion) program, students are exposed to various areas of design, where they can practice and learn to apply their skills to garments , artefacts and more. 

RMIT graduates receive national design awards, scholarships, and invitations to participate in national and international showcases, events and exhibitions. 

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Design (Fashion)

Intake

February

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

Image Credits: UTS

UTS’s Bachelor of Design in Fashion and Textile is an internationally recognized program that gives students the skills to kick-start their career in the fashion industry. At UTS, fashion is not just about the garments, but also about people. Which is why, this degree highly focuses on using studios and interdisciplinary subjects, which allow students to gain the communication and teamwork skills to develop, articulate and sell their creations to peers and industry. 

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Design in Fashion and Textiles

Intake

February | July | November

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

Image Credits: QUT

QUT’s Bachelor of Fashion design is the longest running fashion degree in Queensland. Through this course you will be learning to develop your style of design, by working on real world projects both individually and in teams. It also offers students the opportunity to gain international experience through exchange programs and internships. 

Course Details 

Program

Bachelor of Design (Fashion)

Intake

February

Duration

3 Years (Full time)

Indicative Fees 

Contact Excel Education

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About The Author

Mariyam Naufa
I like to keep it simple. 
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