Postgraduate Diploma in Design

Program Overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Design (PGDipDes) at Massey University is a one-year full-time or up to four-year part-time program that advances design thinking with postgraduate-level studies. It offers specializations in fashion design, industrial design, photography, spatial design, textile design, or visual communication design, and prepares graduates for careers in the creative industries or further study at the postgraduate level. The program is taught by experienced academics and offers a variety of courses, including core courses in research methods, critical thinking, and design theory.

Program Outline

Postgraduate Diploma in Design (PGDipDes)

Degree Overview:

The Postgraduate Diploma in Design (PGDipDes) at Massey University is a one-year, full-time (120 credits) or up to four-year part-time program designed to advance your design thinking with postgraduate-level studies. It offers the opportunity to upskill in creative practice, modern design technology, and theory while specializing in fashion design, industrial design, photography, spatial design, textile design, or visual communication design. The qualification provides an introduction to postgraduate research processes and contemporary design theory, pushing the boundaries of your design practice with a research-led independent project. You'll also have the opportunity to take elective courses focused on creative entrepreneurship, exhibition, or writing in the creative arts.

• Studied design at the undergraduate level
• Wish to pursue a Master of Design but lack an honours degree
• Want to develop your research and analysis skills

Outline:

The PGDipDes curriculum focuses on studio-based inquiry and developing research skills. Students enrolled full-time take 120 credits per year or 60 credits per semester. The program offers a variety of courses across different design specializations:

• Fashion Design: Apparel Production Research, Fashion Design Independent Study
• Industrial Design: Industrial Design Digital Representation, Industrial Design Special Topic C, Industrial Design Independent Study
• Photography: Photography and the Archive, Photography and Visuality, Photography Independent Study
• Spatial Design: Spatial Design Special Topic C, Spatial Design Independent Study
• Textile Design: Embroidered Textiles, Sustainable Colouration, Textile Design Special Topic C, Textile Design Independent Study
• Visual Communication Design: Experiential Information Design, Contemporary Letterpress, Image and Identity, Illustration Studio Practice, Spatial Type, Visual Communication Design Special Topic D, E, and F, Independent Visual Communication Design Study
In addition to these specialization-specific courses, the PGDipDes also offers core courses that all students must take. These core courses provide students with a foundation in research methods, critical thinking, and design theory. They also allow students to explore their interests in other design disciplines.

Assessment:

Assessment in the PGDipDes is conducted through a variety of methods, including:

• Assignments: These may involve written work, design projects, presentations, or other creative outputs.
• Examinations: These may be written or oral exams that assess students' knowledge and understanding of the course material.
• Portfolios: Students are required to submit a portfolio of their work at the end of the program.
This portfolio is a chance for students to showcase their skills and achievements to potential employers.
• Peer review: Students will have opportunities to provide and receive feedback on their work from their peers.
• Self-reflection: Students are encouraged to reflect on their learning and development throughout the program.

Teaching:

The PGDipDes is taught by a team of experienced and passionate design academics. These academics have extensive industry experience and are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience. The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and studio sessions. Students are also encouraged to take advantage of the University's extensive library and other resources.

Careers:

The PGDipDes prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the creative industries. Graduates of the program have gone on to work as:

• Fashion Designers
• Graphic Designers
• Industrial Designers
• Photographers
• Spatial Designers
• Textile Designers
• Art Directors
• Creative Directors
• Design Researchers
• Design Educators

Other:

• The PGDipDes is a good fit for students who want to extend their design speciality or explore new horizons.
• The program is open to international students on campus in New Zealand.
• The program is offered as a selected entry qualification, which means students must meet additional requirements beyond standard university entrance requirements.
• Places on the program are offered on a rolling basis, subject to availability.
• The University offers a range of scholarships and awards to support students in their studies.