Master of Design
If you are an international student who is not currently in New Zealand, you can start this programme online in A Trimester 2022 (March) until you are able to join us on campus in New Zealand. See how to apply.
The Master of Design (MDes) is an advanced degree focusing on graphic design theory, technology and original research. It builds on the unique combination of design and coding skills developed during the Bachelor of Design (BDes).
The MDes provides an opportunity for you to plan, develop and carry out a large scale design research project. This will enable you to collaborate with other students and academics, and to work with members of the professional design industry. The MDes research is represented by both a written thesis and an exhibited design realisation.
Research topics are tailored to suit your interests, providing an opportunity for you to hone a particular aspect of graphic design further, which could be a pathway to your chosen career. You will also have the full support, guidance and expertise of your supervisor during your research project.
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.
Key information
| Years: | 1.5 |
|---|---|
| Points: | 120 or 180 |
| Study Locations: | Hamilton |
| Start Dates: | Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July) |
| Estimated Fees* (Domestic): |
$7,416 - $8,888 per year
See if you're eligible for fees-free study in your first year |
| Estimated Fees* (International): | $39,000 (120 points) $58,505 (180 points) per year |
| Entry Requirements: | Postgraduate International |
| Area of Study: | |
| *Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. | |
Degree Planner
Degree planner — Master of Design (MDes)
180 points
90 or 120 point
Design Thesis and Realisation
60 or 30 points from
500 level taught papers**
- Compulsory
- Thesis
- Elective
Choose a main subject
Career opportunities
- Advertising Designer
- Interactive Designer
- Motion Graphics Designer
- TV Graphics Designer
- Web Designer
Entry requirements
Expand to read entry requirements
To enrol in the MDes you should have completed a Bachelor of Design (BDes) (or equivalent) and have achieved a B average over the course of your study.
If you are applying with an undergraduate or graduate qualification from another university you must also complete a portfolio containing ten pieces of art or design work. Please include the ID Number that you will receive during this online application process when naming your portfolio. Submit your Portfolio after you have completed an online application to enrol.
It is helpful if you can discuss the choice of your actual programme of study – that is, the courses you are going to take and the area in which you plan to write a thesis or dissertation with the graduate advisor in Design. We will go over your entire proposed graduate programme with you, not just the courses you plan to take in the first year. If you cannot come to the University in person, we can discuss your proposed programme by email or on the phone.
Scholarships and prizes
Selected scholarships for MDes students.
New to Waikato? The International Excellence Scholarship is worth up to $10,000.
Freemasons Postgraduate Scholarship Not currently accepting applications
For students who, in the year following application, will be enrolled full-time in Postgraduate Diploma, Masters degree or Doctoral degree.The scholarship will have a value of $10,000.
University of Waikato Summer Research Scholarship Not currently accepting applications
For students who are enrolled at a NZ University in an undergraduate degree, final year honours degree or a first-year master's degree (taught papers only). The scholarship provides students with opportunities to experience the challenges and rewards of research. The scholarship will have a value of $6,000 and will include enrolment in a credit bearing paper at no cost to the student.
University of Waikato Taught Postgraduate Scholarship Accepting applications
For students enrolling in at least one 500-level taught paper (some 400-level taught papers are also eligible - see regulations for further info). Applications must be submitted prior to the commencement of the papers for which funding is being sought. A minimum GPA of A- is required. International students must have completed at least 120-points of study at a NZ university to be eligible.
Closing Date: 30 April 2023
Looking for more scholarships?
Practical experience
The MDes provides an opportunity for you to plan, develop and carry out a large scale design research project. This will enable you to collaborate with other students and academics, and to work with members of the professional design industry.
Contacts
School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
Phone:
Email: [email protected]
Website: cms.waikato.ac.nz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUcms
Have a chat with one of our friendly advisers to help you plan your degree.
Phone: +64 7 838 4610 Email: [email protected]
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