Graduate Certificate of Science (Design for Circular Cities)

2025 Deakin University Handbook

Year

2025 course information

Award granted Graduate Certificate of Science (Design for Circular Cities)
Deakin course codeS519
Faculty

Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment

CampusOffered at Waterfront (Geelong)
OnlineNo
Duration

One year (part-time only)

Course Map - enrolment planning tool

This course map is for new students commencing from Trimester 1 2025

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

New course from Trimester 1, 2025. This course is not available to international students.

Course sub-headings

Course overview

Upskill and arm yourself with essential knowledge of circularity in the built environment to help build a more sustainable future with 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:

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) students must pass 4 credit points and meet the following course rules to be eligible to graduate: 

  • DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in their first study period
  • SRA710 Safety Induction Program (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
  • 4 credit points of core units 

Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. See the enrolment codes and terminology to help make sense of the University’s vocabulary. 

Course structure

Core

DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points)

SRA710Safety Induction Program (0 credit points)

SRD743Components of the Circular City (2 credit points)

SRD744Interactions and Enablers of the Circular City (2 credit points)

Further information

Student Central can help you with course planning, choosing the right units and explaining course rules and requirements.