Course details

Master of Design
NZQF Level 9

About the course

Overview

Our highly skilled lecturers deliver the art/design theory and original academic/applied research required for you to create advanced projects focused on either time-based/print-based design, object design/visual arts, or fashion/textile design.

Graduates will excel in a range of industries such as galleries, fashion houses, graphic design studios, film and television, printing and publishing, web design, art studios, set design, and much more.

Entry requirements

Domestic Entry Requirements

To be eligible for entry into the Master of Design, applicants must have graduated with a Bachelor’s degree, or a similar qualification in art or design, having achieved a minimum B‐ grade average over their highest level 120 credits of their qualifying degree, or be able to demonstrate equivalent skills and knowledge.

Applicants may be asked to provide a portfolio of original, developmental and finished work.

Selection criteria:

Applicants are selected in order of receipt of their completed enrolment application with all entry requirements have been met. Each candidate will be required to submit a professional portfolio and a research proposal.

Portfolio

The portfolio of work needs to demonstrate graduate level engagement with design activity. Portfolios can take a number of different formats and each will be considered on a case-by-case basis. They can be submitted either in hard copy or digital format and could contain any combination of the following:

  • Time-based design
  • Print-based design
  • Photography
  • Visual arts and illustration
  • Original film or video
  • Web design and/or development
  • Game design and/or other interactive media

Research Proposal

  • Statement of your research question and your objectives
  • Other key questions and sub-questions you want to address in the research
  • The research methodology you will use and your reasons for using these particular methods
  • How your research is important and what gaps you hope to fill within current knowledge
  • Identification of current developments in your chosen research topic
  • A realistic time plan for carrying out all your research
  • A short list of references to key articles and texts included in the application

International Entry Requirements

In addition to the Domestic Entry Requirements, the following applies to international student applicants.

English language proficiency

International student applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 with no band score lower than 6 (or equivalent including TOEFL). IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form (i.e. combining scores from more than one test is not permissible).

Under 20 years of age

In addition to this, international applicants under 20 years of age must have NCEA equivalency.

About the provider

UCOL in its many forms has been part of the community for more than a century. We are a proud example of a successful Institute of Technology and Polytechnic. We have a rich heritage and much to contribute to the future of vocational learning.

When you study with UCOL you’re much more than a number. We take the time to get to know you, to understand who you are. By sharing your strengths and what you want to achieve, we can truly help you get to where you want to be.

At UCOL, we’re here to support you all the way. Studying can be a challenge, we get that.

Study takes commitment, which, together with a learning style that suits you and the support you need, is a very powerful combination. At UCOL we encourage resilience and build self-confidence while you learn - providing our students with even greater opportunities.

As a student studying on or off campus, you can expect to learn skills and gain knowledge that sets you on your way. Gaining a qualification is a wonderful achievement that is earned, not given. We encourage you to stay in touch and make life-long learning a part of your journey. Ultimately, we want you to find your own place, whatever that may mean for you.

Our networks with local employers go beyond one-way exchanges, we value meaningful connections that are mutually beneficial. These relationships keep our education grounded, our programmes relevant, and job opportunities real. Our approach is truly collaborative.

UCOL graduates are well-rounded and possess the skills and values employers are looking for. They are valued members of their local community. With campuses in Palmerston North, Whanganui, Wairarapa and Horowhenua, and various delivery locations, we’re well known throughout the central and lower North Island.

Being close to our communities is a vital part of who we are. We strive to deepen connections and help our communities to grow and prosper. We aspire to build positive, meaningful relationships that benefit our students and graduates. That is why we exist.

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