bachelor of design

Bachelor of Design

Bachelors Degree BDes
bachelor of design

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.

360 points, 3 years

Hamilton

Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

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Why study the Bachelor of Design?

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 DesignIndustrial DesignInterface 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.

Career Opportunities

  • Design companies
  • Games industries
  • Interactive media design industries
  • Mobile design and UX/UI
  • Post-production companies
  • Television graphics
  • Web design and development

360 points, 3 years

Hamilton

Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

Degree information

Plan your study Subjects Entry Requirements Fees and scholarships

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.

Practical experience

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. 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.

Bachelor of Design with Honours

Students who complete the three-year Bachelor of Design may also be invited to enrol in a Bachelor of Design with Honours (BDes(Hons)) degree.

Bachelor of Design with Honours (BDes(Hons)) graduates will have advanced professional knowledge and an introduction to the research literature in a subject area represented in a major in an undergraduate design degree. You will be equipped with the capabilities to conduct independent research. Higher performing graduates will be prepared to enter postgraduate studies leading to higher-level qualification such as a masters degree or PhD.

Contact us

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School of Computing & Mathematical Sciences

School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, The University of Waikato