Monash College launches new Diploma of Art & Design and expanded Diploma programs in partnership with Tianhua College in China

Monash College in partnership with Tianhua College, Shanghai has launched the Diploma of Art & Design, along with a relaunch of an expanded Diploma of IT.

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Available from September 2025 for Trimester 3, Tianhua College is proud to be Monash College’s first international education partner to deliver the Diploma of Art & Design outside of Australia in response to the noticeable rise of interest in arts and design pathway education among Chinese students.

In recent years, art and design is growing in importance in China, reflecting a renewed sense of appreciation for the creative arts as a viable and prestigious career path, particularly among Chinese youth.

Chief Executive Officer, Monash College and Chief Marketing, Admissions and Communications Officer and Vice-President, Monash University, Mr Fabian Marrone, said the launch of the Diploma of Art & Design in-country in China meets an emerging market for students seeking undergraduate study at Monash University.

“What distinguishes Melbourne is its long-held title as Australia’s capital of arts and culture and Monash University has an enabling role in connecting creative thinkers and learners, makers and industry to make a genuine positive impact on the world. I am proud of Monash College’s enduring partnership with Tianhua College to provide a world-class pathway to students in-country.”

“Monash College, and its international partners in the Asia Pacific region and beyond, play an incredibly integral role within Monash’s distinctive global presence and connected campus network. It is a powerful proof-point of our commitment to broaden the appeal and access to education in the communities we operate.”

Professor Nancy Bai, Dean, School of International Education, Shanghai Normal University Tianhua College affirmed that the launch of the Diploma of Art & Design is a significant step in the partnership with Monash College in nurturing the next generation of creative leaders.

“We are committed to providing an exceptional educational pathway here at Tianhua College in Shanghai by meticulously preparing our students with the international perspective, profound cultural literacy, refined technical skills, and an outstanding innovative spirit essential for success,” said Professor Nancy Bai, Dean, School of International Education, Shanghai Normal University Tianhua College.

“We eagerly anticipate supporting our students throughout this transformative journey towards their Bachelor of Design at Monash University and beyond, confident they will become the design talents who shape the future of the creative industries in Shanghai and across the globe."

Representatives from Monash University, Monash College and Tianhua College present at the launch event at Tianhua College on Wednesday 2 July, included Mr Fabian Marrone, Chief Executive Officer, Monash College and Chief Marketing, Admissions and Communications Officer and Vice-President, Monash University, Professor Mel Dodd, Dean of the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, Monash University, Mr Li Weiping, Secretary-General of the Shanghai Education International Exchange Association.

The Diploma of Art and Design, delivered by Tianhua College on behalf of Monash College, provides specialist preparation for direct entry into the second year of a Monash University degree in Collaborative Design, Communication Design, Industrial Design, or Spatial Design, subject to meeting entry and prerequisite requirements.

A world-class education begins at Monash College – and continues at Monash University.

Media contacts 

Monash College

Ross Battaglia, Associate Director, Communications and Events

communications@monashcollege.edu.au

Monash University 

03 9903 4840 | media@monash.edu