Massey University

What you'll study

The programme combines studio-based projects, professional practice and research-informed study to build competencies across visual, digital and product design. Core themes include design thinking and problem framing, user-centred design and user experience (UX), visual communication and typography, digital media and interactive design, materials and making for product design, and professional practice including project management and client engagement.

• Studio projects: multi-stage briefs that simulate industry workflows and culminate in a student portfolio.
• Design theory and history: critical frameworks that inform contemporary practice.
• Research methods: qualitative and quantitative approaches to support design decisions and future study.
• Digital tools and fabrication: practical training in relevant software, prototyping techniques and maker‑space practice.
• Capstone or major project: an independently driven design project demonstrating synthesis of skills and deliverables for exhibition or client engagement.

The programme is offered with flexible delivery options and can be taken full‑time or part‑time. Assessment is typically through portfolios, project deliverables, written reflection and presentations.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor's degree in design, fine arts, architecture, engineering, computer science or another relevant discipline. Candidates without a design degree but with substantial professional experience in a creative field may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis. A portfolio of recent creative work is required to demonstrate potential for postgraduate design study.

• Academic requirement: an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
• Portfolio: examples of creative work showing idea development, process and outcomes; digital portfolios are accepted.
• English language: proof of English proficiency if your prior study was not in English, in line with university policy.
• Additional requirements: applicants may be invited to an interview or provide a statement of purpose outlining their design interests and goals.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical studio experience and a professional portfolio suited to employment in a wide range of design roles. Typical career pathways include:

• Graphic and visual designer roles in agencies and in‑house teams
• User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) designer positions in digital product teams
• Product and industrial design roles focusing on physical goods and prototyping
• Motion and interaction designers for digital media and advertising
• Design researcher or service designer positions that combine user research with systems thinking
• Design management, brand strategy and creative direction roles
• Freelance practice or launching a design‑led business/start‑up
• Progression to postgraduate research or a Master of Design for those seeking advanced specialisation or academic careers

Why study at Massey University

Massey offers a practice‑focused design education with strong links to industry and an emphasis on real‑world briefs and experiential learning. The university's creative facilities — including digital labs, maker spaces and exhibition venues — support hands‑on exploration across media and technologies. Students benefit from teaching staff who combine academic expertise with professional design experience and from opportunities to collaborate across disciplines such as engineering, business and media.

Massey’s multi‑campus presence provides access to urban industry networks as well as community and regional partnerships, while the programme’s structure supports flexible study modes to fit the needs of early‑career professionals and career changers. The Graduate Diploma also acts as a recognised pathway into further postgraduate study for those wishing to specialise or pursue research in design.