Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The Master of Design combines advanced studio practice, applied research and professional development. Students work on substantial individual projects that integrate design research methods with conceptual development and prototyping. The programme balances taught modules with a final major project or thesis, allowing you to pursue topics such as user-centred design, service design, interaction design, design strategy, sustainability and visual communication.

• Core themes: design research methods, design thinking and innovation, professional practice and ethical frameworks for design.
• Studio and elective topics: advanced interaction and UX design, service and systems design, product and materials innovation, strategic and social design, branding and visual communication, rapid prototyping and digital fabrication.
• Research and project work: independent major project or thesis supervised by academic staff; emphasis on a rigorous research approach that delivers artefacts, prototypes or applied outputs with appropriate documentation.
• Assessment: a mix of studio projects, written reports, presentations, portfolio submissions and a final research project or dissertation component.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a recognised bachelor’s degree in design, applied arts, engineering, computer science or a related discipline. Candidates with substantial professional experience in design or a closely related field may also be considered. You will normally be asked to submit a portfolio demonstrating recent design work and a statement of intent explaining your proposed area of study.

Admission may include an interview with academic staff or a short proposal for the major project. International applicants must meet AUT's English language requirements and provide certified academic transcripts. Specific eligibility and pathways (including bridging or graduate diploma options) are available for applicants without a directly related undergraduate qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Design are prepared for leadership and specialist roles across commercial, public and non-profit sectors. The degree develops capabilities valued by employers who need strategic, evidence-informed design thinking applied to complex problems.

• Design director, creative lead or design manager in agencies and in-house teams
• Service designer or systems designer working on public services, transport, health or finance
• User experience (UX) and interaction design lead in software and digital product teams
• Design researcher or design strategist in innovation consultancies and research organisations
• Product and materials designer in manufacturing, consumer goods and fabrication industries
• Entrepreneurship and consultancy—founding design studios or offering specialist freelance services

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT offers a practice-oriented learning environment with strong links to industry and a multidisciplinary campus culture. Students benefit from modern workshops and prototyping facilities, digital labs, and access to staff who combine academic research with professional design experience. Being located in Auckland provides proximity to a vibrant creative sector, technology companies and cultural organisations, enabling collaboration on real-world projects and internships.

The programme emphasises applied research, collaborative practice and portfolio development, supporting graduates to move into senior professional roles or further research degrees. AUT’s focus on industry engagement and employability equips students with practical skills, professional networks and the confidence to lead complex design initiatives.