Bachelor of Design - Industrial Design

Summary

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

Industrial designers shape the world we live in by designing the products we use every day, from items as simple as a toothbrush, through to those as intricate as an aeroplane. The role of the industrial designer is in the designing of products that are durable, effective in purpose, and beautiful in appearance.

The University of Waikato's new Industrial Design major will equip graduates with the knowledge and experience required to design and develop industrially-produced objects. The graduates will be prepared to develop a design career in manufacturing industries. The goal of the major in Industrial Design is to provide Bachelor of Design students with graduate attributes that are recognised as appropriate by professional designers working within the broad subject areas of Industrial Design, and that are well suited to related employment opportunities within their chosen discipline subjects. It is also intended that students will be well prepared for graduate study if they choose to continue study towards a higher qualification.

Therefore, in addition to the attributes expected of all Bachelor of Design graduates (any major), a student who completes a BDes with a major in Industrial Design is expected to be able to demonstrate: .

• The ability to determine the function and purpose, the formal qualities, and the aesthetic dimensions of industrially produced objects
• The ability to apply industrial design knowledge and skills at a range of scales in an authentic place of practice (e.g., workplace)
• Deliver professional presentations to relevant stakeholders
• The ability to be self-reflective of their professional practice, and articulate their skills and skill-limitations

Career opportunities

• Design Researcher
• Strategic Designer
• Experience Designer
• Industrial Designer