MDC4501 Advanced design studio 1
Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture
MDC4501 Advanced design studio 1 is a level 4, 18-credit-point, postgraduate unit from the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, offered in 2026 in Semester 1 and Semester 2 at Caulfield. It has no prerequisites and unlocks 4 units, leading on to 17 units in all.
- Credit points
- 18
- Offered in 2026
- Semester 1, Semester 2
- Caulfield
- Assessment
- No exam
- 3 tasks
This is the 2026 handbook entry. See the 2027 entry.
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Requisites
Before MDC4501
Corequisites
Pass these before, or take them in the same semester.
Prohibitions
You can't enrol if you have passed any of these.
After MDC4501
4 units list MDC4501 as a prerequisite or corequisite.
Enrolment rules
You must be enrolled in the Master of Design (F6002).
Overview
This unit introduces you to key concepts, theories, and technical skills essential for design enquiry and intervention. Through hands-on exercises and project-based activities, you will engage with design composition, problem-solving, and digital production. You will learn to approach complex design challenges with confidence, gaining a solid understanding of the design process and the interdisciplinary nature of design. Emphasis is placed on developing foundational skills in using design technologies and tools, enabling you to create, communicate, and prototype design outcomes effectively across various media.
Offerings in 2026
| Teaching period | Campus | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| First semester | Caulfield | Blended |
| Second semester | Caulfield | Blended |
Assessment
- Project 1Project30%
- Project 2Project35%
- Project 3Project35%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
Identify the core elements and principles of design, including the technical processes involved in contemporary design production;
- 2
Apply design principles and skills to create and manipulate images, shapes, and forms, and use established production methods to solve design problems;
- 3
Integrate research with skills and technologies to create solutions for contemporary design challenges;
- 4
Recognise the social, cultural, and ethical impact of design on diverse stakeholders;
- 5
Recognise the role of design practice in ethically addressing a range of complex societal challenges;
- 6
Develop strategies for self-directed learning and continuous improvement in design skills.
Workload and teaching
- Studio activities96 hours
36 hours per week including 9 contact hours plus 27 hours of independent study.
Contacts
- Chief Examiners
- Mr Jeffrey Janet
- Unit Coordinators
- Mr Samuel Berkoh
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for MDC4501?
None, but you must take OHS1000 before or alongside it.
What can I take after MDC4501?
MDC4501 is a prerequisite or corequisite for 4 units, including DGN4029, DGN4201, DGN4604 and MDC4502. Those lead on to 17 units in all.
When is MDC4501 offered?
In 2026, MDC4501 runs in Semester 1 and Semester 2 at Caulfield.
Does MDC4501 have an exam?
No. MDC4501 has 3 assessment tasks and no exam.