The Graduate Diploma in Design (GDipDes) is a Level 7 graduate qualification designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want to develop advanced expertise in design without completing another full undergraduate degree.

The programme allows students to study alongside Bachelor of Design with Honours students in advanced studio-based design courses. It combines creative practice, critical thinking, hands-on studio learning, and professional design development.

Why Study Graduate Diploma in Design at Massey University?

• Study at one of New Zealand’s leading creative arts institutions.
• Learn through hands-on studio-based projects and creative practice.
• Build professional design portfolios and advanced specialist skills.
• Work in collaborative creative environments with industry-focused learning.
• Develop critical thinking, visual communication, and design innovation abilities.
• Opportunity to transition into postgraduate design study.
• Access globally recognised design teaching and facilities.
• Massey’s College of Creative Arts ranks in the global top 200 for Art & Design by QS World University Rankings.

Disciplines / Design Areas Offered

Students may choose courses across various design disciplines available in the Bachelor of Design with Honours.

Available design areas include:

• Concept Design
• Fashion Design
• Industrial Design
• Integrated Design
• Photography
• Spatial Design
• Textile Design
• Visual Communication Design

Subjects / Topics Offered

Core Topics

Students may study subjects such as:

• Transformation: Discourse in Design
• Creative Communities
• Professional Cultures in Design
• Human-Centred Design
• Design for Social Change
• Creative Practice Development
• Contemporary Design Theory
• Ethical and Sustainable Design
• Professional Design Practice

Studio-Based Design Topics

Depending on selected discipline, students may study:

Fashion Design

• Advanced Fashion Practice
• Textile experimentation
• Material innovation

Industrial Design

• Product and Industrial Design
• Sustainable product development
• Design prototyping

Visual Communication Design

• Branding
• Typography
• Digital media design
• Social change communication

Spatial Design

• Spatial ecologies
• Interior and environmental design
• Exhibition and experiential design

Concept Design

• Game design
• Location-based experiences
• Narrative design

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• Graphic Design
• Visual Communication
• Fashion Design
• Product Design
• Creative Direction
• Spatial and Interior Design
• Photography
• Digital Design
• Game and Concept Design
• Brand Strategy
• Creative Consultancy

The programme may also provide pathways into:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Design
• Master of Design
• Creative industries leadership roles

Highlights of the Programme

• Studio-based immersive learning
• Internationally recognised creative arts education
• Access to professional design facilities
• Strong portfolio development focus
• Collaboration with multidisciplinary creative students
• Industry-relevant creative practice
• Flexible course selection across design disciplines
• QS-ranked art and design school

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme is a selected-entry qualification requiring portfolio review.
• Some applicants may also be interviewed.
• Students may need to purchase specialised materials, software, or equipment depending on chosen design disciplines.
• Practical studio participation is a significant component of the programme.
• Students completing the qualification within the required timeframe and at a high academic standard may graduate with:
  • Distinction
  • Merit

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students studying on campus in New Zealand generally require:

•  Valid New Zealand Student Visa
• Offer of Place from Massey University
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Medical and travel insurance
• English language proficiency proof
• Health and character documentation if required