Bachelor of Design (Communication)
Design
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A hands-on degree teaching you to tell stories and communicate ideas through graphic design, animation, games, web, film, and interactive media, preparing graduates for diverse creative careers.
NZ$9,507
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop industry-ready creative and design skills
Gain expertise in communicating ideas and telling stories visually using a broad range of media—graphic design, digital illustration, animation, interactive, games, and more.
Collaborate and manage projects
Work with other students on community- and client-driven projects, learning organisational, communication, and teamwork skills essential for creative industries.
About This Course
The Bachelor of Design (Communication) prepares you to communicate original ideas and stories visually through various media including still and moving images, text, sound, and interactive media. The programme emphasises positive social and environmental change, and includes industry-focused, client-driven projects. In year one you study a broad range of design disciplines before specialising in your area of choice for years two and three. The degree is delivered on campus in Dunedin and equips graduates with work-ready, entrepreneurial, and collaborative skills relevant to a wide range of creative industries.
Course Content
- Graphic design and typography
- Illustration, animation and character design
- UX for game design
- Visual design for games
- 3D modelling and world-building
- Game narratives and interactive fiction
- Web design and mobile app design
- Film and photography
- Social media content design and strategy
- Communication and storytelling
- Campaign design for social media
- Research and reflective practice
- Studio projects (interdisciplinary, individual, team-based)
Entry Requirements
NCEA Level 3 with 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three NZQA approved university entrance subjects
Build towards these roles
Graphic DesignerGame ArtistAnimatorLevel DesignerLead DesignerUser Experience DesignerNarrative DesignerTechnical ArtistCreative DirectorWeb DesignerMultimedia SpecialistVideo Producer
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
