Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking

Design thinking employs a mix of critical thinking and creativity to re-evaluate problems to come up with innovative ideas towards improving services and solving complex business problems. Many global corporations and governmental agencies have used design thinking for successful product innovation and resolution of complex service issues.

In this course, you will employ human-centred design methods, which focus on user research, empathy mapping and customer insights in order to prototype possible solutions in a range of production and service situations. You will also be able to apply the practical skill sets by undertaking a real world client project as part of the course.

This course will increase and update the skill set of graduates and current professionals of business, community development, engineering, graphic design, health services, information technology, marketing, strategic communications and sustainable development.

By completing this course, you will also be eligible to transfer units to undertake the Graduate Diploma in Design Thinking and Service Innovation. Hear how Nina levelled up her career with this course to be future ready in a world where creative thinking is valuable currency.

3 reasons to study Design Thinking at Murdoch

1. This course has been developed with key industry collaboration to provide realistic insight into how creative approaches are used to generate innovative products and services around the world.
2. Select from four elective units in areas such as web strategy, community development and organisational change to tailor your Graduate Certificate to level up in your industry or try out a new career route.
3. Be supported throughout your studies by passionate tutors with industry relevant experience.

Develop your skills

Build the knowledge and skills you need to meet your career or study goals. Here are some of the things you'll learn:

• Design thinking processes, including researching, prototyping and evaluating service systems for complex commercial and social problems
• The role of human-centered design, with critical and empathetic analysis lenses
• Applying design research methodologies towards the creation of innovative ideas and concepts, including presenting solutions to client-based problems

Your future career

Design thinking principles can be used across multiple sectors including commercial business, resources, creative design and even the public sector. Use your studies to take the next step into a leadership position, or forge a new career in an area of your choosing. Careers could include:

• User Experience Designer Brand Strategist

• Product Designer
• Innovation Lead
• Design Researcher

Your document checklist

Ready to apply? Before you start, make sure you have all the following documentation ready for a quick application.

Compulsory documents

Evidence that you meet Academic entry and English language requirements such as:

• Official Academic Transcripts and Certificates of Completion (of your highest academic study)
• Evidence of meeting the minimum English language requirements

Recommended documents (if applicable)

1. Change of name documentation
2. Marriage certificate
3. Unit outlines if applying for Advanced Standing

Your document checklist

Ready to apply? Before you start, make sure you have all the following documentation ready for a quick application.

Compulsory documents

1. Evidence that you meet Academic entry and English language requirements such as:
   • Official Academic Transcripts and Certificates of Completion (of your highest academic study) both original and English translated versions.
   • Evidence of meeting the minimum English language requirements
2. GTE documents (if applicable) - Check the GTE requirements page for further information
   • GTE Form 2
   • Personal Statement (SOP)
   • Up to date Curriculum Vitae
3. A copy of your Passport

Recommended documents

1. A copy of your visa documents (if available)
2. A copy of any past visa rejection documents (if applicable)
3. Packaged offer letter (if applicable)
4. Sponsorship documents if you study will be sponsored
5. Unit outlines if applying for Advanced Standing