Master of Design

In order to be admitted to the Master of Design an applicant must have completed the following or equivalent:

• An honours degree that is of relevance to design (such as Design - Graphic, Industrial, Product, Fine Arts, Cognitive Science/Psychology, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering); or
• A postgraduate diploma that is of relevance to design; or
• An undergraduate degree and professional experience (equivalent to one year of advanced study ~ 2 plus years experience in a design related field showing career progression and increasing responsibility) as approved by the Academic Board

Media Design School requires the following items for an application to be considered:

• Completed application form online
• Statement of intent
• Curriculum Vitae
• Digital Portfolio of relevant work from area(s) of expertise
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts and qualification certificate

Applicants are required to attend a selection interview (in person or via video call). Eligibility for admission does not guarantee an offer of a place.

As an international student, you'll need to prove you have sufficient English language skills in order to complete this course. We'll be looking for Academic IELTS overall score of 6.5 (minimum) with no band less than 6.0, or equivalent test result.

We accept a range of internationally recognised English Language proficiency test. Find out more on the NZQA website or download the NZQA list HERE.

Evidence of Creative Abilities

Applicants are required to submit creative portfolios in addition to their previous academic history.

The creative portfolio is a showcase of your previous design and creative works. It is very much like a visual resume. The aim of the portfolio is to showcase the breadth and depth of your skills, knowledge and experiences in design. It should highlight key projects you have worked on illustrating both the thinking and design processes and the final outcome.

Portfolios must show an applicant’s creative potential and ability. All applicants must submit a portfolio of representative samples even if they have not had formal training in art and design. A good portfolio may contain a variety of work; sketches, drawings, painting mixed media, multimedia, photography, design creations etc.

Portfolio Format:

In most cases the portfolio should be submitted as a single PDF file, with no more than 40 pages.  If applicants wish to submit multimedia, animations, games or movies, ideally these are listed on a websites for viewing. 

Please consider the following:

• Only submit work done within the last three years.
• Include an introductory slide with your name and contact details
• Where possible, provide a description of each project and your response to the project brief.
• Show your ability to meet technical and software skills relevant to your chosen discipline.
• Send an electronic copy of your portfolio – no original submissions will be returned.

Before you begin your study with us, you will need to have a suitable device that has the functionality to run the programmes required for your course.

Click the link below to find course-specific requirements and recommendations, along with links to more information about hardware specifications. We have prepared these recommendations to help our students equip for flexible, blended learning.