The University of Auckland is New?Zealand’s largest and most internationally recognised university, located in Auckland, a vibrant, cosmopolitan city known for its multicultural environment and high quality of life. The university welcomes students from over 100 countries and provides extensive academic support, wellbeing services, career guidance, English?language assistance, and visa support to help international students succeed in their studies and adjust to life in New?Zealand.

 

The Master of Design sits within the Faculty of Creative Arts and Industries and focuses on advanced design thinking, research, creative practice and real?world problem solving.

 

Why Study Master of Design

The Master of Design prepares you to become an advanced design thinker and practitioner capable of working across a broad range of design contexts — from organisations and industry to government and community settings. The degree emphasises:

• Complex problem framing and design leadership

• Interdisciplinary approaches to design

• Advanced research and creative practice

• Systems and strategic design in real?world contexts

• Professional and conceptual skills for careers in innovation, design strategy, consultancy and creative leadership

 

Programme Structure & Subjects

The Master of Design allows you to tailor your programme based on your interests, with both taught and research pathways available:

Taught Pathway (180 Points)

• Core (135 points) – foundation courses including:

  • DESIGN?700 – Design Research Methodologies

  • DESIGN?701 – Design Practices

  • DESIGN?702 – Design Technologies

  • DESIGN?709 – Project Design

• Electives (45 points) – choose from courses such as:

  • DESIGN?704 – Design Impacts

  • DESIGN?706 – Design Innovation

• Capstone Project (60 points) – final integrated project exploring a design issue with breadth and depth.

Research Pathway (180 Points)

• Combines core courses with a research thesis (e.g., 90?point DESIGN?794 or portfolio) and other electives selected with supervision.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Master of Design are prepared for a range of strategic, creative and leadership roles in areas including:

• Design strategy and consulting

• Innovation and systems design

• User experience (UX) and service design

• Creative leadership and project direction

• Design research and academia

• Entrepreneurship and creative enterprise

 

Visa Requirements (International Students)

To study in New?Zealand, international students must obtain a Student Visa after receiving an offer of admission. Common requirements include:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• Valid passport
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living costs
• English proficiency evidence (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL)
• Health and travel insurance

 

Key Highlights – At a Glance

• Level?9 Master’s qualification (180 points) focused on advanced design theory, practice and research.
• Offers both taught and research pathways tailored to your goals.
• Delivered on City Campus, Auckland with hands?on studio and project work.
• Leads to careers in design leadership, strategy, innovation and creative research.
• Opportunities for scholarships and financial support for international students.