Study Programme Details
City: Hamilton
Country: New Zealand
Admission Sessions: Autumn Session, Spring Session
Study Format: Full Time
Mode of Study: Fully on Site
About this Study Course
Embark on a transformative journey into the realm of design and creative practices with our Master of Design program. This program is crafted with a central aim — to empower you to specialize in your chosen area within the design and creative practices industry, setting the stage for a flourishing career in academia or industry.
Overview
The MDes offers a unique blend of taught courses, immersive design research, and an exploration of advanced design theory and practice. Here, you’ll not only undertake a large-scale design research project but also have the freedom to tailor your research topics to align with your personal interests. This customization serves as a pathway to your envisioned career, all while enjoying the unwavering support, guidance, and expertise of your dedicated supervisor.
Engage in collaborative endeavors with fellow students and seasoned academics, and seize opportunities to work closely with professionals from the dynamic design industry. At the University of Waikato, your MDes journey is more than an academic pursuit — it’s a collaborative and transformative experience.
Admission 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.
- an Academic IELTS Overall score of at least 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in any band), or
- a TOEFL iBT (Internet Based TOEFL) score of 90 with a Writing score of 21, or
- a TOEFL iBT Home Edition overall score of 90 with a Writing score of 21, or
- a B grade or better at Level 8 in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic English, or
- a PTE Academic overall score of 56 with no band less than 46, or
- a Language Cert International ESOL (LRWS) C1 Expert with an overall high pass and no less than a pass in each skill, or
- a Language Cert International ESOL (LRWS) B2 Communicator with 38-50 score per skill, or
- awarded a New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Academic) (Level 5), or
- a Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE) III with a pass in all four components, or
- a B2 First (formally known as Cambridge English: First (FCE)) with an overall score of 176 and no bands below 169, or
- a C2 Proficiency (formally known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)) with an overall score of 176 and no bands below 169, or
- a Michigan English Test (formally known as Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB)) minimum score of 59.
- Information Visualisation
- Studio Management
- Design Research Methods
- Directed Study
- Design Dissertation
- Design Thesis
- Domestic: $7,416 – $8,888 per year
- International: $39,000 (120 points) or $58,505 (180 points) per year
Future Career Outcomes
Discover success stories of MDes alumni who have seamlessly translated their education into impactful careers. Explore how the program aligns with industry demands, emphasizing the continuous relevance of skills in today’s dynamic and competitive job market.
Related Career Pathways
Brand Identity Designer, Bridge Design Specialist, Design and Research Engineer, Design Consultant, Design Educator, Design Entrepreneur
Visa Requirements:
For visa information, please visit New Zealand page for student visa and student life.
