Communication Design Major - Bachelor of Design Te Tohu Paetahi mō te Hoahoa

As a communication design student, you’re supported by lecturers and professional designers, as you work independently and collaboratively on graphic design and communication design projects.

Year 1

In the first semester, you’ll study core courses that introduce you to design principles, research methods, critical thinking, creative processes and design prototyping. You’ll focus on media experimentation, use type and image to exploit graphic design conventions, and communicate ideas.

In the second semester, you’ll explore design systems, industry case studies, information and content management to prototype and communicate messages to an audience.

Semester 1 courses

• DESN511 Introduction to Design Practice (30 points)
• DIGD507 Mahitahi | Collaborative Practice (15 points)
• DESN512 Making and Media (15 points)

Semester 2 courses

• GRAD511 Communication Design Practice I (30 points)
• Plus two courses* from your second major, your minor(s) or elective courses

Year 2

You’ll work on studio projects and workshops where you will:

• Explore design systems and branding, including marketing channels, campaign strategy and visual identity
• Engage with core analogue image-making, digital tools and applications, and communication strategies
• Focus on typography, illustration, drawing, moving image and opportunities to explore image-making and narrative structures
• Work on projects with social impact, and partner with creative studios, design researchers, designers and other industry stakeholders
• Apply industry standard lens-based image-making processes and technologies, professional workflow, and market-level management and communication systems
• Develop a portfolio

Semester 1 courses

• GRAD611 Communication Design Practice II (30 points)
• Plus two courses* from your second major, your minor(s) or elective courses

Semester 2 courses

• GRAD612 Communication Design Practice III (30 points)
• Plus two courses* from your second major, your minor(s) or elective courses

Year 3

The focus this year is the major self-directed design project you complete. Projects can be individual, in partnership with another student or undertaken as a group project. This project will form a substantial part of your communication design portfolio.

The year ends in a public exhibition where you can show your work to the public.

Semester 1 courses

• GRAD711 Communication Design Practice IV (30 points)
• Plus two courses* from your second major, your minor(s) or elective courses

Semester 2 course

• DESN711 Integrated Design Practice (60 points)

_{*Two 15-point courses or one 30-point course.}