Design
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain specialist skills in designing innovative products, services, and systems that enhance the way we live. This hands-on bachelor’s degree emphasises human needs, sustainability, and practical design experience, preparing you for a career as a product designer.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 3 years
This course requires 37 hours per week

Approach the design of products, services, and systems with a focus on user needs and sustainability.

Design, build, and test prototypes to explore and communicate design concepts.

Develop skills in conceptualisation, drawing, modelmaking, CAD, and graphic design.
The Bachelor of Design (Product) programme at Otago Polytechnic prepares students to become work-ready product designers through a balance of theoretical knowledge and studio-based practical projects. Students learn to conceptualise, draw, model, use CAD and production methods, and focus strongly on designing for people, planet, and place. The curriculum emphasises hands-on prototyping, client briefs, teamwork, human-centred and sustainable design, and advanced skills in drawing, graphic design, and technology. The degree provides valuable industry experience, encourages transferable skills in communication and project management, and supports students in building a professional design portfolio.
What you need to know first

Design
Product Design
Manufacturing
Consultancy
Public Sector

Product designer
CAD designer

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.
Design
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain specialist skills in designing innovative products, services, and systems that enhance the way we live. This hands-on bachelor’s degree emphasises human needs, sustainability, and practical design experience, preparing you for a career as a product designer.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 3 years
This course requires 37 hours per week

Approach the design of products, services, and systems with a focus on user needs and sustainability.

Design, build, and test prototypes to explore and communicate design concepts.

Develop skills in conceptualisation, drawing, modelmaking, CAD, and graphic design.
The Bachelor of Design (Product) programme at Otago Polytechnic prepares students to become work-ready product designers through a balance of theoretical knowledge and studio-based practical projects. Students learn to conceptualise, draw, model, use CAD and production methods, and focus strongly on designing for people, planet, and place. The curriculum emphasises hands-on prototyping, client briefs, teamwork, human-centred and sustainable design, and advanced skills in drawing, graphic design, and technology. The degree provides valuable industry experience, encourages transferable skills in communication and project management, and supports students in building a professional design portfolio.
What you need to know first

Design
Product Design
Manufacturing
Consultancy
Public Sector

Product designer
CAD designer

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.
NCEA Level 3, with 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three NZQA approved university entrance subjects
10 Literacy credits at Level 2 or above (5 reading, 5 writing)
10 Numeracy credits at Level 1 or above
Equivalent qualifications or experience may be considered
Submission of a portfolio (unless criteria for automatic entry or pre-approval is met)
Interview may be required
International students require an equivalent secondary school qualification and English language proficiency
Industrial designer
Design consultant
Project manager
Entrepreneur/self-employed designer
NCEA Level 3, with 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three NZQA approved university entrance subjects
10 Literacy credits at Level 2 or above (5 reading, 5 writing)
10 Numeracy credits at Level 1 or above
Equivalent qualifications or experience may be considered
Submission of a portfolio (unless criteria for automatic entry or pre-approval is met)
Interview may be required
International students require an equivalent secondary school qualification and English language proficiency
Industrial designer
Design consultant
Project manager
Entrepreneur/self-employed designer