Duration
Full-time: half-year Part-time: varies
Next start date
2025 Semester One – 3 March
2026 Semester One – 2 March
Available locations
City
Points
60
Programme type
Postgraduate

Programme overview

The Postgraduate Certificate in Design (PGCertDes) provides you the opportunity to align with current design practices. Whether you have previously studied design or are new to the field, the PGCertDes introduces you to advanced design concepts and positions you to contribute meaningful and high-impact solutions.

It is possible to transfer to the Master of Design if you have achieved appropriately within the PGCertDes and wish to continue your studies.

Programme structure

Over the course of your study, you will explore the research methodologies, practices and technologies that can be applied in advanced design solutions.

You’ll focus on the ways design can drive meaningful outcomes while considering the impact on society, the environment and economy.

Structure:
DESIGN 700 (15 points)
DESIGN 701 (15 points)
DESIGN 702 (30 points)

PGCertDes students learn alongside Master of Design students in their first semester, to maximise engagement and knowledge sharing, and provide additional networks for future opportunities.

You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Sample programme structure

Semester 1 60 points

  • Code:
    DESIGN 700
    Name:
    Design Research Methodologies
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DESIGN 701
    Name:
    Design Practices
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DESIGN 702
    Name:
    Design Technologies
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    30 pts

Subjects available in this programme

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

2024 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:

Programme requirements

Minimum programme requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

  • Study option
    Taught 60 points
    Grade required
    GPA Grade Point Average 3.5

    A Bachelor degree

Further programme requirements

Taught 60 points

You must have completed a Bachelors degree at a recognised university (or similar institution), with a grade point equivalent of 3.5.

Programme requirements

Minimum programme requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

  • Study option
    Taught 60 points
    Grade required
    GPE Grade Point Equivalent 3.5

    An undergraduate degree

  • Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.5

Further programme requirements

Taught 60 points

You must have completed a Bachelors degree at a recognised university (or similar institution), with a grade point equivalent of 3.5.

Other pathways to study

Alternatively, in exceptional circumstances, if you have extensive relevant practical, professional or scholarly experience which is deemed equivalent to the above standard, then you may be considered for admission to the PGCertDes degree.

As part of your application for admission, you will need to supply a written statement and curriculum vitae of relevant experience. We will contact you directly about supplying these once your application is received.

Written Statement

Your written statement should address your reasons for wanting to participate in the programme and how you see this contributing to your future career aspirations. Your statement should be approximately 500 words in length.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your CV should include descriptions and examples of relevant work experience and any other activities considered appropriate for your application (for example: participation in design projects (professional and amateur), involvement in community activities, details of any academic and/or professional design awards/prizes).

An interview will also be needed to assist in the assessment of your application. Once you submit your application for admission and your written statement and curriculum vitae, we will contact you directly about scheduling an interview (in-person, telephone, Skype, or Zoom).

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

How much does a Postgraduate Certificate in Design cost per year?

2025 fees

Domestic students
NZ$5,446.20*
International students
NZ$25,405*

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.88 per point, estimated at $532.80 for full-time study (60 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Key dates

Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Semester One 2025
8 December 2024

Start dates

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

We welcome any questions you may have about postgraduate study in Design. Contact our postgraduate adviser:

Postgraduate Adviser
Aaron Fry
Email: aaron.fry@auckland.ac.nz

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Where could this programme take you?

Graduates of the PGCertDes will emerge with a suite of advanced design capabilities that are increasingly sought after in the commercial and civic fields. You’ll be qualified in current design practices and ready to contribute solutions that are viable and sustainable in both the community and industry.

Jobs related to this programme

  • Creative director
  • Interface designer
  • Information designer
  • Project leader
  • Digital designer
  • Service designer
  • Product designer
  • Design researcher

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.

Key Information for Students

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