Bachelor of Design (Honours)
Design
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A postgraduate qualification for high-achieving design graduates wanting to deepen their knowledge of design research and professional practice. Prepares graduates for further study or creative leadership roles.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
This course requires 38 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Advanced design research skills
Demonstrate deep knowledge and critical understanding of design research methodologies and their application in practice.
Professional design practice
Apply advanced professional practices, legal frameworks, and sustainability principles to design projects.
Major independent project
Plan, execute, and present a substantial applied or research-led project in a design discipline, culminating in a public presentation and a written dissertation.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Design (Honours) at Otago Polytechnic is an intensive, research-focused qualification for graduates with strong undergraduate results in design or a related field. The programme develops advanced understanding of design research methods and professional practice in a multi-disciplinary environment. Students undertake a mix of taught courses and a major research-led design project, supported by industry-relevant content and expert supervision. Graduates are well equipped for creative lead roles or further postgraduate education.
Course Content
- Professional Design Context (15 credits): Understanding design practices, professional and legislative frameworks, sustainability in design.
- Design Research Methods (15 credits): Range of design research methods and methodologies, context-setting, literature/context/artefact review, project proposal.
- Applied Design Project 1 (30 credits): Individual or team-based research and analysis within a chosen design discipline, applied research, critique, and resolved design outcome.
- Major Research Project 2 (60 credits): Develop and present an advanced design-led research project, supported by a 5,000-8,000 word dissertation or equivalent.
- Portfolio development and public presentation of work.
- Multi-disciplinary design projects (e.g., fashion, communication, visual arts, product, spatial, interaction, event, multimedia design).
What you need to know first
Bachelor of Design (discipline endorsed) Level 7, or equivalent bachelor qualification at Level 7 or above, with B+ average or higher in final year courses.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Design
Creative Industries
Visual Arts
Future employment opportunities might be
Design creative lead
Senior designer
Design project manager
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.