Design Futures unit (KDA304)

Hobart, Launceston

Introduction

Design Futures is a capstone unit that bridges academic study with professional practice, preparing third-year design students for post-graduation careers through strategic self-reflection and portfolio development. Students engage in research-driven exploration of emerging design practices while developing a comprehensive understanding of their professional identity and career trajectory. The unit combines self-directed project development with structured professional preparation, culminating in a cohesive portfolio that demonstrates both creative capability and career readiness.

Summary

Unit name	Design Futures
Unit code	KDA304
Credit points	25
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Architecture and Design
Discipline	Architecture & Design
Coordinator	Doctor Jose Vicente Garcia Cesar
Available as an elective?	No
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Advanced

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 2
Launceston	Semester 2

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 2	5/7/2026	27/7/2026	30/8/2026	24/10/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Research and evaluate emerging design practices for their implications and opportunities for design futures.
• Synthesise knowledge and skills gained throughout the degree program to create a comprehensive professional development plan for post-graduation
• Develop, implement and produce design outputs aligned to personal interests and/or aspirations in the field of design.
• Plan and manage a self-directed project through independent inquiry, organisation and self-reflection.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
100500	$2,384.00	$2,041.00	not applicable	$5,944.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

100 credit points in any discipline

Teaching

Assessment	Design Futures (30%)|Final Portfolio and Exhibition (30%)|Design Project (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.