About the programme
The Master of Design is a NZQF Level 9 programme at Whitireia & WelTec worth 180 credits that develops digital media practice through applied research over 18 months of full-time study. Of those credits, 120 are at Level 8 and 60 at Level 9, and study runs for at least three semesters.
Students choose research connected to their own interests across 2D and 3D design media, including illustration, branding, photography, print and digital publishing, animation, interactive media, game design and screen production.
By the end of the degree, graduates are expected to build lasting working relationships through collaboration, critically assess the complex and varied contexts they work in, and select, adapt and apply research methods to solve problems in specialist design fields.
Applicants submit a portfolio and a research proposal. The portfolio can be physical or digital and may combine time-based and print design, photography, visual arts and illustration, original film or video, web design or development, and games or other interactive media. The programme is based at the Petone campus, can be taken part-time, and prior learning may be recognised.
Entry requirements
- Bachelor's degree or similar qualification in art or design with at least a B- average over the highest-level 120 credits, or demonstrated equivalent skills and knowledge
- Portfolio showing graduate-level engagement with design
- Research proposal
- International students: IELTS (academic) 6.5 with no band below 6, or equivalent
What you study
- Level 8 study — 120 credits
- Level 9 study — 60 credits
- Applied research project in the chosen design field
- 2D and 3D design media: illustration, branding, photography, publication, animation, interactive media, game design, screen production
Post-study work visa
Up to 3 years
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 09/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitireia & WelTec website