Graduate Certificate of Science (Design for Circular Cities)
2026 Deakin University Handbook
| Year | 2026 course information |
|---|---|
| Award granted | Graduate Certificate of Science (Design for Circular Cities) |
| Course Credit Points | 4 |
| Deakin course code | S519 |
| Course version | 1 |
| Faculty | Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment |
| Course Information | For students who commenced from 2024 onwards |
| Duration | One year (part-time only) |
| Course Map - enrolment planning tool | This course map is for new students commencing from Trimester 1 2026 This course map is for new students commencing from Trimester 2 2026 Course maps for commencement in previous years are available on the Course Maps webpage or please contact a Student Adviser in Student Central. |
| Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition | The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8 |
| Supplementary Information | This course is suspended (no intake in 2026). This course is not available to international students. |
Course sub-headings
- Course overview
- Indicative student workload
- Career opportunities
- Pathways
- Course Learning Outcomes
- Course rules
- Course structure
- Fees and charges
Course overview
Upskill with essential knowledge of circularity in the built environment and help build a more sustainable future through Deakin's Graduate Certificate of Science (Design for Circular Cities). This course will equip you with the skills required to succeed as a leader in the growing field of urban sustainability.
The expertise you gain will enable you to help create environmentally resilient communities. Learn how to effectively influence circular city systems through the design and implementation of urban environments that prioritise sustainable practices - such as the minimisation of waste and efficient use of resources. Learn from industry experts and graduate with the work-ready skills and cutting-edge knowledge to thrive in leadership positions.
Indicative student workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, site visits and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Career opportunities
The Graduate Certificate of Science (Design for Circular Cities) gives you the advanced knowledge and skills to take on leadership roles in the emerging field of circular cities. You may pursue career and leadership opportunities in areas such as:
- urban design consultancies (in planning, engineering, architecture, landscape)
- urban management and governance
- property development and housing
- circular design specialists
- environmental consultancies
- urban regeneration and environmental agencies.
Pathways
Upon completion of the Graduate Certificate of Science (Design for Circular Cities) you could use the credit points you've earned to enter into further study, including:
- Master of Science (Design for Circular Cities) (S718)
- Master of Science (Design for Circular Cities) (Professional) (S719)
Course Learning Outcomes
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Develop a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between urban design, architecture, engineering, social sciences, and environmental sciences in the context on circular cities. Develop an understanding of policy, governance and economic frameworks that support circular cities and critically evaluate their effectiveness in different contexts |
| Communication | Communicate complex urban concepts, processes, and outcomes persuasively through a range of media, including verbal presentations, written reports, and visual representations. |
| Digital literacy | Use digital tools and technologies to enhance circular design and planning processes. |
| Critical thinking | Apply design and systems thinking approaches to discover, analyse and reframe complex urban problems related to circularity. |
| Problem solving | Analyse and synthesize data and information to identify opportunities for circularity in cities and catalyse them into propositions that address environmental, economic, and social challenges. |
| Self-management | Demonstrate leadership and entrepreneurial skills in designing, implementing, and promoting circular urban solutions. |
| Teamwork | Collaborate effectively with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and sectors to develop circular city solutions that are contextually relevant and socially equitable. |
| Global citizenship | Critically reflect on the ethical, social, and cultural implications of circular cities in relation to the role of design in shaping circular cities. |
Course rules
To complete the Graduate Certificate of Science (Design for Circular Cities) you must pass 4 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- SRA710 Safety Induction Program (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- 4 credit points of core units.
Most units are equal to one credit point.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Course structure
Core units
| DAI001 | Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points) |
| SRA710 | Safety Induction Program (0 credit points) |
| SRD743 | Components of the Circular City (2 credit points) |
| SRD744 | Interactions and Enablers of the Circular City (2 credit points) |
Fees and charges
Tuition fees will vary depending on the type of fee place you hold, your course, your commencement year, the units you choose to study, your study load and/or unit discipline.
Your tuition fees will increase annually at the start of each calendar year. All fees quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD) and do not include additional costs such as textbooks, computer equipment or software, other equipment, mandatory checks, travel, consumables and other costs.
For further information regarding tuition fees, other fees and charges, invoice due dates, withdrawal dates, payment methods visit our Current students website.
Further information
Contact Student Central for assistance in course planning, choosing the right units and explaining course rules and requirements. Student Central can also provide information for a wide range of services at Deakin. To help you understand the University vocabulary, please refer to our Enrolment codes and terminology page.