Design is the discipline of making things work better—more clearly, more equitably, more beautifully. It sits at the intersection of creative thinking and rigorous inquiry, asking not just how things look but how they function, who they serve, and what problems they solve.
This area is for people who approach challenges through making and want to shape the things people use and experience every day.
These subjects are mostly taught within the Bachelor of Design Innovation, with dedicated studios at Te Aro campus in the heart of Wellington’s creative community.
Explore undergraduate Design subjects
Browse subjects in this study area.
Discover postgraduate research
Our research in this area asks not just how things look, but how they function, who they serve, and what problems they can solve. From interaction design to design for social innovation, research here sits at the intersection of making and thinking.
Browse the research areas below, or search our researcher database to get an idea of what might interest you and who you may be able to work with.
If you go on to work on a thesis for a Master's or PhD, you'll need to have contacted a supervisor who has agreed to supervise. It's a good idea to explore your options in advance to get an idea of projects and availability.
Explore postgraduate Design subjects
Browse subjects in this study area.