Bachelor of Design

Summary

The study of Design combines an understanding of human needs and desires, forming creative solutions, prototyping, developing and evaluating their impact and effectiveness - a well-balanced combination of analytical, technological and creative abilities.

Bachelor of Design (BDes) graduates are trained to use a variety of skills to operate in a wide range of social contexts using a diverse array of media. During your studies, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of Design and its role in the process of innovation.

The Bachelor of Design offers four majors: Communication Design, Industrial Design, Interface Design, and Media Design.

As a BDes graduate you will have the capability to articulate effective design solutions in the contemporary technological context. You will have a solid understanding of design methods and theories together with advanced technical skills.

Training in Design is suitable for both school leavers as well as mature learners wishing to enhance their skills. Students within the programme develop knowledge in a broad range of industry standard software, while using the latest digital technology. Contact with the Design industry is encouraged, and students will have opportunities to interact with Design professionals during their study.

Students who graduate with a Bachelor of Design degree from Waikato have proven to be capable performers in the design industry. In addition to career opportunities in Design, Waikato graduates have a broad range of options to choose from with further research in Design possible at graduate and postgraduate levels.

In addition to the practical experience gained throughout the programme, you have the opportunity to undertake a real-world design project in the 300 level paper DSIGN350. In this project you work relatively independently and collaborate with your peers and with members of the professional design industry.

The final semester 300 level paper DSIGN360 involves a self-directed brief which culminates each year in a Design Showcase (opens in a new tab). The Design Showcase projects cover a wide range of media including web design and production, mobile design, interactive design, brand development, visual identity work, interactive installation, motion graphics, 3D animation and more.