I didn't study Visual Arts (VA) or design in secondary school. Will it be difficult to keep up?
Not at all! The Diploma in Creative Design is an entry-level programme where over 90% of the curriculum focuses on art and design. The programme is structured progressively, teaching industry-standard professional software (such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, AutoCAD, and SketchUp). Even beginners with zero foundation can easily master these skills. Furthermore, the programme covers a diverse range of design disciplines, including graphic design, digital media, interior design, and hands-on crafting experiences, giving you a well-rounded introduction to the creative industry.
What are the further study pathways after graduating with this diploma?
The progression pathways are excellent. In the past, up to 90% of our graduates have chosen to progress to a Higher Diploma programme. Upon completing this one-year diploma, students can seamlessly articulate to HKCT’s Higher Diploma in Creative Design and Media (Visual Communication / Moving Image) or Higher Diploma in Interior Design, and subsequently progress to Year 3 of a bachelor's degree programme.
Additionally, HKCT has established articulation agreements with overseas institutions. Graduates of the Higher Diploma in Creative Design and Media can obtain a BA (Hons) Graphic Design in as little as one year.
Can I enter the design industry directly after completing the Diploma in Creative Design? What are the career prospects?
Absolutely! This programme places a strong emphasis on practical skills. Graduates will be equipped with fundamental design thinking and proficiency in industry-standard software (such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and AutoCAD). You will be fully capable of taking up entry-level design positions, such as Graphic Design Assistant, Junior Interior Design Drafter, Social Media Content Creator, and Multimedia Design Assistant.
However, the design industry highly values the maturity and professional depth of your portfolio. While direct entry into the workforce is possible, we strongly encourage students to use this diploma as a stepping stone to pursue a Higher Diploma (HD) programme.
Furthering your studies allows you to gain experience in larger-scale design projects and enrich your personal portfolio. Completing a Higher Diploma will significantly improve your starting salary, job options, and promotion prospects. You can even articulate to a bachelor's degree in the future, laying the most solid foundation to become a Senior Designer, Interior Designer, or Art Director!
What is the difference between the Diploma in Creative Design and the Diploma of Applied Education (DAE)? Which one is more suitable for me?
If you already have a keen interest in design and wish to focus on the creative field, the Diploma in Creative Design is definitely the better fit for you. The key advantages include:
Focus on Art, No Mathematics Required: While the DAE requires students to study core subjects like Chinese, English, and Mathematics, over 90% of our programme focuses purely on art and design, with absolutely no mathematics modules. The diploma explores diverse design sectors—including graphic design, digital media design, and interior design—allowing students to better plan their future career paths.
No Exams, Project-Based Assessment: Unlike the traditional examination format of the DAE, this programme has no written exams. Students are assessed entirely through project-based assignments, which significantly reduces academic stress and allows you to focus on your creativity.
Better Preparation for Further Studies: The curriculum directly teaches essential design thinking and industry software (such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and AutoCAD). The professional skills you acquire will help you adapt much faster and build a stronger foundation when you progress to design-related Higher Diploma programmes.
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Design graduates are like enthusiastic arcade gamers, becoming creative fighters on the design stage, full of passion, and always challenging themselves. They use their honed design skills to bravely overcome obstacles, paving the way for the future in the design field, and embarking on a new chapter in design.