Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Design

The Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Design (BCom/BDes) program at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is tailored for students interested in integrating business acumen with creative design skills. This interdisciplinary program combines core business principles with specialized knowledge in design disciplines such as graphic design, digital media, industrial design, or environmental design. It aims to prepare graduates for careers that require a blend of creative thinking, problem-solving, and business management expertise.

Curriculum: The BCom/BDes program offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances foundational business courses with design-focused subjects. Business subjects typically cover areas such as accounting, economics, marketing, management, and business law. Design courses may include design theory, visual communication, user experience (UX) design, design thinking, and digital design tools and techniques. Students have the flexibility to choose electives and specialized design studios according to their interests and career aspirations.

Research Focus: UNSW emphasizes a research-driven approach across its programs, including the BCom/BDes. Students have opportunities to engage in research projects that explore the intersection of design innovation and business strategy. Faculty members conduct research in areas such as design thinking methodologies, sustainable design practices, user-centered design solutions, and the impact of design on consumer behavior and market trends. Students benefit from exposure to cutting-edge research that informs their understanding of how design principles can drive innovation and competitiveness in business contexts.

Industry Engagement: The university maintains strong industry connections with leading design firms, creative agencies, and businesses across various sectors. The BCom/BDes program integrates industry projects, internships, and guest lectures by design professionals. Students gain practical experience through collaborative projects that address real-world design challenges and business needs. These industry engagements provide opportunities for students to build professional networks, showcase their skills, and gain insights into industry trends and practices.

Global Perspective: With a commitment to fostering a global perspective, UNSW encourages BCom/BDes students to explore international design trends, participate in design competitions, and engage in global design forums and conferences. The program incorporates case studies from international design studios, multicultural design projects, and collaborations with global brands or design agencies. Students develop cultural sensitivity, cross-cultural communication skills, and an appreciation for diverse design aesthetics and consumer preferences in different markets worldwide.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: AUD $150

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 94 with a minimum of 23 in each section.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): Overall score of 64 with a minimum of 54 in each section.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

UNSW offers a variety of scholarships to attract and assist international students. 

Merit-Based Scholarships: UNSW offers merit-based scholarships to international students with exceptional academic achievements. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and provide financial support to cover tuition fees or living expenses.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships are tailored for students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships aim to promote diversity and cultural exchange among international students.

Faculty/Program Scholarships: Certain faculties or academic programs at UNSW offer scholarships to attract outstanding international students interested in specific fields of study. These scholarships may cover tuition fees or provide research opportunities.

Sports and Arts Scholarships: UNSW acknowledges the talents and achievements of international students in sports and the arts. Scholarships in these categories may be available to support students with exceptional abilities.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Design (BCom/BDes) program from UNSW possess a unique blend of business management skills and creative design expertise, positioning them for diverse and rewarding career paths in industries that value innovation, aesthetics, and strategic thinking.

Graphic Designer: Graduates can work as graphic designers, creating visual concepts to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. They design logos, advertisements, websites, and other marketing materials using graphic design software and techniques to meet client or brand objectives.

UX/UI Designer: Specializing in user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, graduates can pursue careers as UX/UI designers. They focus on improving the usability and functionality of digital interfaces, ensuring a seamless user experience across websites, mobile apps, and software platforms.

Digital Marketing Specialist: With a focus on digital design and marketing, graduates can work as digital marketing specialists. They develop and implement digital marketing strategies, create engaging content, optimize online campaigns, and analyze digital metrics to drive brand awareness and customer engagement.

Product Designer: Graduates can work as product designers, developing innovative products and services that meet user needs and market demands. They conceptualize product ideas, conduct research, create prototypes, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring products from concept to market.

Brand Strategist/Manager: Those with expertise in both commerce and design can work as brand strategists or brand managers. They develop brand identities, create brand positioning strategies, manage brand communications, and ensure brand consistency across all marketing channels to enhance brand equity and customer loyalty.

Advertising Art Director: Graduates can pursue careers as advertising art directors, overseeing the visual aspects of advertising campaigns. They collaborate with copywriters, photographers, and other creative professionals to develop creative concepts, design layouts, and produce compelling visuals that resonate with target audiences.

Creative Director: With experience and leadership skills, graduates can aspire to become creative directors in advertising agencies, design studios, or corporate settings. They lead creative teams, oversee project development, and ensure creative vision alignment with business objectives to deliver impactful campaigns and projects.

Environmental Designer: Those interested in sustainable design can work as environmental designers, focusing on creating spaces that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally sustainable. They design interiors, landscapes, or urban spaces that enhance user experience while promoting sustainability practices.

Web Developer/Designer: Graduates with skills in web development and design can work as web developers or designers, creating visually appealing and user-friendly websites. They use coding languages, design principles, and content management systems to build responsive websites that meet client specifications and user expectations.

Entrepreneur/Startup Founder: Entrepreneurial-minded graduates can start their own design studios, creative agencies, or tech startups. They leverage their interdisciplinary skills to innovate, solve design challenges, and launch new products, services, or digital platforms that disrupt industries and meet market needs.