Media Design
Media Design combines elements of design, screen and media studies within a single major. Use your design skills to create content for multi-media platforms such as 2D and 3D animation, film and video production, and motion graphics.
Studying Media Design will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the theory, research and design of multi-modal media content for screen and multi-media platforms. You will learn about different tools and techniques such as 2D and 3D animation, film and video production, and motion graphics.
As a media designer, you will focus on key design principles associated with the creation, construction and production of audio-visual media content for effective communication.
You can study Media Design as a major in the Bachelor of Design (BDes).
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
| Study Location: | Hamilton |
|---|---|
| Area of Study: |
Study Media Design as a specialisation of
Career opportunities
- Media Designer
- Digital Media Designer
- Media Artist
- Motion Graphics Designer
- TV Graphics Designer
- Computer Games Designer
Papers
Available Media Design papers
100 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Points | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| COMPX101 | Introduction to Programming | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton), 23A (Online), 23B (Hamilton), 23B (Secondary School - Unistart) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| This paper introduces computer programming in C# - the exciting challenge of creating software and designing artificial worlds within the computer. It also covers concepts such as the internals of the home computer, the history and future of computers, cyber security, computer gaming, databases, mobile computing and current researc... | |||
| COMPX161 | Introduction to the Web | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton), 23I (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| This paper introduces the core Web technologies of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Students will learn how to combine these technologies with design principles to produce effective web content. | |||
| CSMAX170 | Foundations in Computing and Mathematical Sciences | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23A (Tauranga) |
| The objective of this paper is to provide students with the academic foundations for computing and mathematical sciences. The paper will cover the following areas: -Effective academic reasoning and communication -Information literacy and research skills -Academic integrity -Techniques and tools in the computing and mathematical sci... | |||
| DSIGN125 | Introduction to Communication Design Production | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton), 23A (Online), 23A (Secondary School - Unistart) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| This paper enables students to perform basic computing operations and to operate software packages for the manipulation of visual images and text for use in print and screen-based applications. Students will be introduced to basic computing concepts and provided with software tutorials and related exercises. | |||
| DSIGN141 | Principles of Form and Design | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| This paper develops the student's ability to recognise and utilise the basic elements and principles of design both two and three dimensionally. It explores topics related to 'thinking' and creativity with an emphasis on raising a student's creativity consciousness and attitude. The work will primarily be abstract in nature and wil... | |||
| DSIGN142 | Beyond the Basics of Design | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| This paper develops the student's ability to put into graphic application the basic elements and principles of design. It will also provide an introduction to typography. The emphasis of the study is to apply these basics to 2D and 3D mediums. The work will be resolved in both traditional and computer technology. | |||
| DSIGN151 | Design History | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| Students journey through a thematic history of design and its interplay with society and technology by studying historical artefacts that influence the contemporary world. | |||
| DSIGN161 | Introduction to the Web | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton) |
| This paper introduces the core Web technologies of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Students will learn how to combine these technologies with design principles to produce effective web content. | |||
| MEDIA100 | Understanding Visual Culture | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| Our lives are dominated by still and moving images and visual technologies. This paper will constitute an important first step in learning to understand how images variously work to convey ideas, their impact and influence on our behaviour, thinking and culture. It draws on a broad theoretical platform from aesthetics, art history,... | |||
| MEDIA102 | Film Production 1: Telling Stories | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| A hands-on practice paper in which students learn to apply film production theory to communicate ideas and tell stories. Students gain experience capturing, constructing and manipulating both audio and moving image in the process of designing, shooting and editing digital short films. | |||
200 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Points | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| DSIGN242 | Interactive Environments | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| This paper presents the students with the challenge of designing interactive media environments of different types. The students are challenged to experiment beyond their previously acquired knowledge, designing for interactive computer screens and mobile devices. | |||
| DSIGN251 | Applied Computing Tools 1 | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton) |
| This paper enables students to widen their experience of design relevant computer software using an intensive laboratory programme. Students select from a variety of themes, including video editing, website design, digital library development, computer game construction, animation and 3D modelling. | |||
| DSIGN252 | Cultural Perspectives for Design | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| The paper provides students with an understanding of culture-specific perspectives on design issues and the ability to apply these in diverse contexts. | |||
| DSIGN271 | Design Thinking | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) |
| The paper presents the iterative process of design, used to understand users, challenge assumptions and redefine problems through empathising with users, defining their needs, ideating innovative solutions, prototyping and testing. | |||
| DSIGN290 | Directed Study | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Hamilton) |
| A directed study involving the design, implementation and testing of the solution to a creative industries problem and production of a formal report. | |||
| MEDIA202 | Film Production 2: Experimentation and Creativity | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| Students are challenged to extend their creative practice beyond the conventions of narrative film making. Working with moving image and sound, students work in teams to experiment with the affordances of the medium and extend their own creative thinking and strategies. | |||
| MEDIA203 | Digital Arts and Cultures | 15.0 | 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| The 21st century has seen a fundamental shift from analogue to digital media systems. This paper will discuss some major aesthetic approaches and theoretical perspectives that have been developed as a means of explaining what is distinctive about digital media and its artistic and cultural applications (aka creative practices using... | |||
| MEDIA220 | Creative Media Production | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) |
| This paper will engage students with a client-based approach to media production. Students will be asked to produce creative projects adhering to strict criteria in a variety of media formats including film, animation, podcasts, audio-visual installations, and studio-based productions. | |||
300 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Points | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| CREAT301 | Creative Technologies and Creative Practice Project | 15.0 | 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| Students participate in a group creative project that will be audio-visual in nature, comprising of either a film, sound-installation, interactive screen-based media or animation from pre-production through to post-production. | |||
| DSIGN350 | Design Internship | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| This paper will induct the design student into the professional environment where the student applies design skills, research methodology and production skills to allocated projects or industry placement. | |||
| DSIGN360 | Capstone Project | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| In this paper students plan, develop and execute a small scale design project with relative independence alongside the guidance of a supervisor. | |||
| DSIGN361 | Portfolio Project | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton) |
| This paper is an opportunity for students to develop and refine a professional portfolio showcasing their design work. | |||
| DSIGN390 | Directed Study | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Hamilton) |
| A directed study involving the design, implementation and testing of the solution to a creative industries problem and production of a formal report. | |||
| DSIGN397 | Work Integrated Learning Directed Study | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Hamilton) |
| A directed study undertaken in collaboration with an industry partner involving the development of a design project and the production of a formal report. | |||
| DSIGN398 | Work Integrated Learning Directed Study | 30.0 | 23A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Hamilton) |
| A directed study undertaken in collaboration with an industry partner involving the development of a design project and the production of a formal report. | |||
| MEDIA301 | Animation | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| While providing a broad critical and historical context of animation and animated films, this paper introduces students to key principles, techniques, cultural expressions, aesthetic approaches and applications for animation. Students are encouraged to explore conceptual approaches, and apply these to innovative creative projects o... | |||
| MEDIA302 | Film Production 3: From Concept to Screen | 15.0 | 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| Do you want to create a festival-ready short film? Develop your creative practice in filmmaking and challenge yourself with a hands-on practical paper that builds on the skills acquired in MEDIA102 and MEDIA202. Students hone their craft in several areas, including: cinematography, sound design, scriptwriting and directing to produ... | |||
| MEDIA305 | Interactive Media Design | 15.0 | 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) |
| Create your own interactive projects that expand your creative practice. Students will engage with contemporary arts practices to devise audio-visual installations, evaluate the rise of interactivity in gaming and VR, and create projects that blend different media formats. | |||
| MEDIA309 | Game, Play and Society | 15.0 | 23G (Online) |
| This paper examines interactive digital gaming as a technological, aesthetic and social phenomenon that constitutes a distinct form of expression and discrete category of cultural activity. Students will understand the affordances of games and explore key principles of game design. | |||
500 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Points | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| DSIGN532 | Information Visualisation | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) |
| This paper aims to provide an awareness of the potential offered by information visualisation techniques, a familiarity with the underlying concepts, and an understanding and ability to effectively design and apply information visualisations in a given context. | |||
| DSIGN551 | Studio Management | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) |
| This paper covers the management of design projects in the studio. It is intended for those aiming for a future senior position in a design studio, or those managing freelance teams. | |||
| DSIGN581 | Design Research Methods | 30.0 | 23A (Hamilton) |
| This paper aims to introduce students to the assumptions underlying the different methodologies and methods for performing research in design. The paper attempts to give students the conceptual and methodological resources needed to think and converse as researchers and to develop a certain level of competence in at least one resea... | |||
| DSIGN589 | Directed Study | 15.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton) |
| Students have the opportunity to pursue a topic of their own interest under the guidance of academic staff. | |||
| DSIGN590 | Directed Study | 30.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton) |
| Students have the opportunity to pursue a topic of their own interest under the guidance of academic staff. | |||
| DSIGN591 | Design Dissertation | 30.0 | 23X (Hamilton) |
| Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor. Presentation of the findings may include a publicly exhibited design project. | |||
| DSIGN592 | Design Dissertation | 60.0 | 23X (Hamilton) |
| Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor. Presentation of the findings may include a publicly exhibited design project. | |||
| DSIGN593 | Design Thesis | 90.0 | 23X (Hamilton) |
| Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor. Presentation of the findings may include a publicly exhibited design project. | |||
| DSIGN594 | Design Thesis | 120.0 | 23X (Hamilton) |
| Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor. Presentation of the findings may include a publicly exhibited design project. | |||
| MEDIA501 | Critical and Creative Approaches to Research | 30.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton) |
| This paper identifies the constraints and freedoms of research methods, and places a strong emphasis on research as an intellectual, theoretical, and processual activity as well as the roles of interdisciplinary projects in creating unique methodological and conceptual media research. | |||
| MEDIA504 | Media Design and Aesthetics | 30.0 | 23B (Hamilton) |
| Audio-visual media are undergoing continual transformations that question the roles of makers and audiences alike. Students are encouraged to experiment with sensory perception in order to question current notions of aesthetics in relation to cultural practices and media creations. This process of reflection encourages critical per... | |||
| MEDIA507 | Theory and Research in Action | 30.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton) |
| Have you got a topic you are passionate about to research? This supervised paper provides students the opportunity to engage with primary texts in preparation for writing their dissertation. You will explore research design frameworks which will support the completion of a robust dissertation. | |||
| MEDIA508 | Creative Practice Research | 30.0 | 23A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton) |
| Are you a creative practitioner that wants to experiment with practice-led research? This supervised paper offers a site for experimentation and development of a practical project to be included in a final dissertation. | |||
Scholarships and Prizes
Selected scholarships for Media Design students.
New to Waikato? The International Excellence Scholarship is worth up to $10,000.
Computer Science Undergraduate Scholarship Accepting applications
For students who are currently in Year 12 or Year 13 at a New Zealand secondary school. Candidates must be intending to enrol full-time in either the BCompSc, BSc majoring in Computer Science, or BE(Hons) majoring in Software Engineering.
Closing Date: 15 September 2023
Looking for more scholarships?
Practical experience
Expand to read practical experience
In addition to the practical experience gained throughout the Bachelor of Design degree, 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 Degree Show. The Degree Show 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.
Subject links
Contacts
School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
Phone: 0800 924 528 or +64 7 838 4625
Email: [email protected]
Website: cms.waikato.ac.nz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUcms