Massey University New Zealand

Master of Design – MDes

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 12 Months
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon February 2027

Course Overview

Embark on your advanced design research journey with the Master of Design (MDes) at Massey University, a postgraduate qualification designed for ambitious individuals aiming for targeted, industry-relevant outcomes. This program is ideal for those seeking to tackle complex real-world problems through rigorous design inquiry, fostering strong connections with business, public, or non-profit sectors. You will delve into specialized areas such as contextualising creative enterprise practice, industrial design, fashion, photography, visual communication, spatial design, or integrated and concept design, preparing you for impactful professional contributions.

This full-time, on-campus Master of Design program unfolds over 12 months, offering you dedicated studio space and access to comprehensive facilities, including an industry-scale green screen studio and Australasia’s first Fab Lab. Your learning will culminate in a substantial 120-credit Design Thesis, a supervised project where you will apply advanced research methodologies and creative practice to develop a well-resolved solution. You will graduate with a portfolio of sophisticated design work and the critical research skills to pursue leadership roles in diverse creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Master of Design (MDes) program offers a comprehensive exploration of creative enterprise and research methodologies. Students will engage with contextualizing creative practice, research methods, and potentially Māori research methodologies. The curriculum further supports project development across various design disciplines, including industrial, fashion, photography, visual communication, textile, spatial, integrated, and concept design. The program culminates in a substantial 120-credit design thesis, allowing for in-depth independent research and creative output.

1 Part One (Choose 60 credits from)

Contextualising creative enterprise practice part 1
Creative practice research methods
Māori research methodologies for creative practice

2 Project Development (Choose 30 credits from)

Industrial design research and development
Fashion design research and development
Photography research and development
Visual communication design research and development
Textile design research and development
Spatial design research and development
Integrated design research and development
Concept design research and development

3 Part Two (Choose 120 credits from)

Design thesis 120 credits
Design thesis 120 credit part 1
Design thesis 120 credit part 2

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,241.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 41,241.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 846.00 - USD 896.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,402.00 - USD 2,804.00
Transport USD 701.00 - USD 1,052.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,507.00 - USD 1,884.00
Estimated Total USD 3,610.00 - USD 5,363.00

Living cost estimates are based on Wellington Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

67%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Brokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCurriculum & Instructional DesignCustomer Experience & SupportDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEdTech & E-LearningFinancial Technology (Fintech)Networking & Internet ServicesSatellite CommunicationsSecondary & High School EducationWireless & Mobile Communications

Top Employers Hiring for this course

ASB Bank

Massey University

Microsoft

Why Study Master of Design – MDes at Massey University

What makes this program stand out

February 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in February 2027

Fast Application response time

Massey University typically responds to applications within a week, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Massey University in New Zealand

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Master of Design – MDes at Massey University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work during their studies depending on the course level. Level 9 courses, like the MDes, allow unlimited work hours year-round.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll in the MDes, you must meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable tests include TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE with defined score thresholds in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as Product Designers, UX/UI Designers, Design Researchers, and more.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MDes offers in-depth design research qualifications with direct industry applications. You'll engage in real-world projects and benefit from facilities like an industry-scale green screen studio and Australasia's first Fab Lab.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Design (MDes) program has an intake in February. Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline to secure your spot.
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