Bachelor of Design - Industrial 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.

Why study a BDes?

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 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.

Why study Industrial Design?

The role of the industrial designer is in the designing of products that are durable, effective in purpose, and beautiful in appearance. The Industrial Design major will equip graduates with the knowledge and experience required to design and develop industrially-produced objects. 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 Bachelor of Design 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

Computing facilities at Waikato

The University of Waikato offers students 24-hour computer lab access with all the latest computer software, and several labs fully equipped with Mac computers, commonly used in professional design environments. Graduate students have a dedicated lab space and access to all undergraduate facilities.

Career Opportunities

Design Researcher

Strategic Designer

Experience Designer

Industrial Designer