| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-03-03 | - |
Program Overview
The Diploma in Design at AUT provides a comprehensive introduction to design principles, methodologies, and history. It equips students with a broad foundation in design, preparing them for further study in specialized design disciplines. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, and graduates are eligible to cross-credit their courses and transfer into the second year of the Bachelor of Design at AUT.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa is an undergraduate program offered by AUT that provides a pathway into the university for students who are uncertain about their specific design interests or who may not have met the direct entry requirements for a bachelor's degree in design. The program is designed to equip students with a broad foundation in design principles, methodologies, and history, preparing them for further study in specialized design disciplines.
Objectives:
- To provide students with a comprehensive introduction to the field of design, covering various design methods, processes, theories, and histories.
- To develop students' academic writing, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- To prepare students for further study in the Bachelor of Design Te Tohu Paetahi mō te Hoahoa at AUT.
Program Description:
The Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa is a one-year full-time or part-time program that consists of 120 points. The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, workshops, and studio-based learning. Students will undertake a range of courses that cover the core elements of design, including:
- Design principles and methodologies
- Design history and theory
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Digital design tools and technologies Students who successfully complete the Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa will be eligible to cross-credit their courses and transfer into the second year of the Bachelor of Design Te Tohu Paetahi mō te Hoahoa at AUT.
Outline:
Content:
The Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa covers the following content areas:
- Design principles and methodologies
- Design history and theory
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Digital design tools and technologies
Structure:
The program is structured as follows:
- Semester 1: Students will take courses in design principles and methodologies, design history and theory, communication skills, and critical thinking and problem-solving.
- Semester 2: Students will take courses in digital design tools and technologies, as well as elective courses in their chosen design discipline.
Course Schedule:
The following is a sample course schedule for the Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa:
- Semester 1:
- Design Principles and Methodologies
- Design History and Theory
- Communication Skills
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Semester 2:
- Digital Design Tools and Technologies
- Elective Courses
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Student assessment in the Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa will be based on a variety of methods, including:
- Assignments
- Projects
- Presentations
- Exams
Assessment Criteria:
Student work will be assessed on the following criteria:
- Creativity and originality
- Technical proficiency
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa is taught using a variety of methods, including:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Workshops
- Studio-based learning
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified design professionals.
Unique Approaches:
The Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa offers a number of unique approaches to teaching and learning, including:
- A focus on hands-on, project-based learning
- A supportive and collaborative learning environment
- Access to state-of-the-art design facilities
Careers:
Career Paths:
Graduates of the Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa will be qualified for a range of careers in the design industry, including:
- Graphic design
- Web design
- Product design
- Interior design
- Fashion design
Opportunities:
Graduates of the program will have the opportunity to work in a variety of design studios, agencies, and businesses. They may also choose to pursue further study in design or related fields.
Outcomes:
Graduates of the Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa will have the following skills and knowledge:
- A strong foundation in design principles and methodologies
- A deep understanding of design history and theory
- Excellent communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
- Proficiency in digital design tools and technologies
- The ability to work independently and as part of a team
- The ability to conceptualize, design, and develop creative solutions
Entry Requirements:
- Minimum entry requirements
- If you have New Zealand qualifications
- University Entrance OR
- 42 NCEA credits at Level 3, including UE literacy and numeracy, with:
- 10 credits in each of 3 approved subjects, OR
- 12 credits in each of 2 approved subjects and 14 credits across 2 further subjects.
- If you have qualifications from another country
- See entry requirements for students from other countries. Select your country from the dropdown menu.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- IELTS (Academic) 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in writing and a minimum of 5 in other bands, or equivalent.
