Bachelor of Design

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Design at the University of Auckland empowers students to explore the world of design through a blend of case studies and real-world projects. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, providing opportunities to work alongside leading researchers and industry specialists. Graduates are well-equipped for diverse careers in the design industry and beyond, including product design, UX design, and innovation management. The program fosters a strong sense of community and offers study abroad opportunities, enriching the student learning experience.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Bachelor of Design (BDes) empowers students to explore the world of design, equipping them with the conceptual and technical skills necessary to thrive in today's rapidly evolving landscape. Through a blend of case studies and real-world project briefs, the program encourages experimentation and innovation, prompting students to consider the practical, social, political, and environmental impacts of their design choices. The BDes program emphasizes a hands-on approach, providing students with opportunities to work alongside leading researchers and industry specialists drawn from diverse design fields. Additionally, students can choose to pursue a conjoint degree, combining the BDes with another discipline, allowing them to tailor their education to their specific interests and career aspirations.

Outline:

The BDes program follows a structured curriculum designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of design principles and practices.

Year 1:

• Introduction to Design Methods and Processes: Establishes the fundamental principles of design thinking, methodologies, and rationale.
• Design Theory and Fundamentals: Explores the theoretical foundations of design, delving into its historical and contemporary contexts.
• Elective Courses: Students choose from a range of introductory courses across various design themes, allowing them to explore different areas of interest.

Year 2:

• Advanced Design Methods: Builds upon the foundations established in Year 1, delving deeper into complex design processes and methodologies.
• Creative Communities: Examines the role of design within communities, exploring its social impact and potential to foster positive change.
• Elective Courses: Students can further personalize their learning by selecting courses from a diverse range of design themes, including Design and Local Community Practices, Design and Global Challenges, Design and Business, and Design and Emerging Technologies.

Year 3:

• Design Research Methodologies: Equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct rigorous design research, enabling them to effectively analyze and interpret data.
• Advanced Design Methods Capstone: Culminates in a year-long capstone project, allowing students to apply their accumulated knowledge and skills to a real-world design challenge.
• Critical-Technical Positioning: Focuses on developing students' ability to critically analyze and engage with emerging technologies and their impact on design practices.
• Elective Courses: Students can further specialize in their chosen design themes or explore new areas of interest.

Assessment:

The BDes program utilizes diverse assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These typically include:

• Assignments: Students complete individual and group assignments, demonstrating their understanding of design principles and their ability to apply them to practical problems.
• Presentations: Students present their work to peers and faculty, showcasing their research findings and design solutions, fostering communication and critical thinking skills.
• Examinations: Written and oral examinations assess students' theoretical knowledge and conceptual understanding of design concepts and theories.
• Portfolio Development: Students continuously refine their design portfolios, showcasing their skills and creative development throughout their academic journey.

Teaching:

The BDes program boasts a dedicated team of experienced design professionals who combine their academic expertise with industry knowledge. The program utilizes diverse teaching methods, including:

• Studio-based learning: Students engage in hands-on projects and group discussions within collaborative studio environments, fostering creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Lectures and seminars: Faculty deliver lectures and lead interactive seminars, providing students with theoretical knowledge and critical perspectives on design practices.
• Workshops and guest speakers: Industry experts and leading designers share their insights and experiences through workshops and guest lectures, enriching the student learning experience.

Careers:

Graduates of the BDes program are well-equipped to pursue diverse and exciting careers within the design industry and beyond. Potential career paths include:

• Product Designer
• User Experience (UX) Designer
• Graphic Designer
• Communication Designer
• Service Designer
• Interaction Designer
• Innovation Manager
• Design Strategist
• Creative Director
The program's focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative thinking prepares graduates to thrive in a rapidly changing job market, enabling them to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

Other:

• The BDes program offers study abroad opportunities, allowing students to expand their horizons and gain valuable international experience.
• Students can participate in design competitions and exhibitions, showcasing their work and gaining recognition for their talent and creativity.
• The program fosters a strong sense of community, providing students with a supportive network of peers, faculty, and alumni.