Be ready to step into the job opportunities offered by the booming green economy with the Graduate Diploma of Science (Design for Circular Cities). This course will equip you with the skills to succeed as a leader in the growing field of urban sustainability. The expertise you gain will enable you to help build a more sustainable future and create environmentally resilient communities.
Learn how to effectively influence circular city systems with a focus on the design and implementation of urban environments that prioritise sustainable practices, such as the minimisation of waste and efficient use of resources. Looking for a career that enables you to make a real difference?
Gain in-depth foundational knowledge of circular city principles through core units before exploring a topic in urban sustainability that interests you most via an elective. Choose topics such as food security, climate change, community development, leadership and finance and data analytics to name a few. You'll also learn by doing, getting hands-on experience in the applied design research lab, where you'll apply design thinking and research methods to real-world problems and build innovative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Indicative student workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, 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 Diploma of Science (Design for Circular Cities) gives you the advanced knowledge and skills to make a difference in the field of urban sustainability. You may pursue career 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.
Participation requirements
It is important to note that some elective units may include compulsory placement, study tours, work-based training or collaborative research training arrangements.
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.
Approved by Faculty Board 3 August 2023
Course rules
To complete the Graduate Diploma of Science (Design for Circular Cities), students must attain 8 credit points, which must include the following:
DAI001 Academic Integrity Module (0 credit point compulsory unit)
SRA710 Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
four (4) core units (totalling 7 credit points)
one (1) course elective unit (totalling 1 credit point).
Enterprise Value Creation: Sustainability and Integrated Reporting
DMC713-OD Life Cycle Assessment (0.5 credit points) ^, and
MMC715-SY Sustainable Leadership to 2030 (0.5 credit points) ^
^ Must be completed together. These fully online microcredentials (Stackable Short Courses) suit professionals with busy lives and work commitments, allowing you to complete microcredentials anytime and anywhere. Please refer to Microcredential learner support for more information.
Other course information
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
Further information
Student Central can help you with course planning, choosing the right units and explaining course rules and requirements.
