Central Queensland University

What you'll study

The Diploma component focuses on practical building design and documentation skills used by designers, drafters and technicians. Typical subject areas include technical drawing and CAD, building information modelling (BIM) workflows, construction materials and methods, building codes and compliance, applied structural principles for low-rise buildings, basic site and land information, and the preparation of construction documentation and specifications.

On successful completion students can progress into the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil Design, where study advances into civil engineering fundamentals such as structural analysis, geotechnics, hydraulics and drainage, reinforced concrete and steel design, surveying, infrastructure design and professional engineering practice. The honours degree emphasises engineering design projects, computational methods and industry-focused design studios that integrate civil design with construction and project management considerations.

Learning is typically delivered through workshops and computer lab sessions (CAD and BIM software), studio-based design projects, lectures and assessments that replicate industry documentation tasks. Work-integrated learning projects and industry-relevant briefs are commonly used to develop workplace-ready skills.

Entry requirements

• Completion of senior secondary school (Year 12) or equivalent, or a recognised vocational qualification in a related field.
• Applicants with relevant trade experience (for example in carpentry, drafting or construction) or recent vocational study may be considered through alternative entry pathways or recognition of prior learning.
• A basic portfolio or examples of technical drawings/CAD work can strengthen an application, especially for applicants without recent formal study.
• Demonstrated competency in English is required; international applicants must meet the university's English language requirements.
• Mature-age applicants are encouraged to apply and may be assessed on work experience and previous study.

Career prospects

Graduates of the diploma will be qualified to work as building designers' assistants, CAD/BIM technicians, drafting officers or documentation specialists within architectural, building design and consulting practices. The diploma provides practical skills valued by small and medium design firms, engineering consultancies and construction companies.

Progression into the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil Design opens career pathways into civil engineering roles, including graduate civil designer, structural design assistant, site engineer, drainage and infrastructure designer, and roles in transport or utilities design teams. Graduates from the honours degree typically enter positions in engineering consultancies, government infrastructure agencies, contractors and specialist design firms, with the potential to pursue Chartered or professional registration routes where relevant.

Why study at Central Queensland University

Central Queensland University offers a practical, industry-focused approach with regional campuses and flexible delivery options to suit on-campus and remote students. The curriculum is designed in consultation with industry to ensure graduates gain the applied CAD/BIM and construction documentation skills employers seek, and there are clear articulation pathways into the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil Design for those who wish to continue to an honours-level engineering qualification.

Students benefit from dedicated workshops and computing facilities, opportunities for work-integrated learning and industry projects, and student support services including academic skills and career guidance to assist transition into employment or further study.