Bachelor of Design with Major in Communication Design The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus, New Zealand

The study of Design combines an understanding of human needs and desires, forming creative solutions, prototyping, developing and evaluating their impact and effectiveness - a well-balanced combination of analytical, technological and creative abilities.

Why study the Bachelor of Design?

Bachelor of Design (BDes) graduates are trained to use a variety of skills to operate in a wide range of social contexts using a diverse array of media. During your studies, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of Design and its role in the process of innovation.

The Bachelor of Design offers four majors: Communication Design, Industrial Design, Interface Design, and Media Design.

As a BDes graduate you will have the capability to articulate effective design solutions in the contemporary technological context. You will have a solid understanding of design methods and theories together with advanced technical skills.

Training in Design is suitable for both school leavers as well as mature learners wishing to enhance their skills. Students within the programme develop knowledge in a broad range of industry standard software, while using the latest digital technology. Contact with the Design industry is encouraged, and students will have opportunities to interact with Design professionals during their study.

Students who graduate with a Design degree from Waikato have proven to be capable performers in the design industry.  In addition to career opportunities in Design, Waikato graduates have a broad range of options to choose from with further research in Design possible at graduate and postgraduate levels.

Major: Communication Design

Communication Design, also known as graphic design or visual communication design, is the communication of messages and ideas across visual media platforms.

Why study Communication Design?

Enjoy the freedom of creative expression, developing design skills for web and print design and motion graphics, and excel in arranging typography, form, and images for impactful and effective visual communication. You will be recognised for the quality of your contribution to our visual culture.

As a communication designer, you will work to combine type and image to attract an audiences's attention and deliver your client's messages.

Communication designers work in areas such as branding, environmental graphics, wayfinding systems, editorial design (newspapers, magazines, books), catalogues, museum displays and every aspect of our visual landscape where there is a communication need.  You will find communication designers working in digital mediums too, and the Communication Design major offers opportunities for you to learn web design and motion graphic design as well.