Design Innovation

The Bachelor of Design Innovation at Victoria University of Wellington is a forward-thinking program that empowers students to become creative problem solvers and innovative designers in a rapidly changing world. This degree combines practical skills with theoretical knowledge, enabling graduates to design impactful solutions across various industries such as technology, healthcare, environment, and consumer products. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, encouraging students to explore new methods, materials, and digital tools to bring ideas to life. Through a series of studio-based projects, students collaborate with industry partners and community stakeholders, gaining real-world experience and professional connections. The program fosters a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles of design thinking, user-centered design, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. Students are equipped to analyze complex problems, ideate innovative concepts, prototype designs, and evaluate their effectiveness—all within an ethical and socially responsible framework. The Bachelor of Design Innovation also offers opportunities for internships, study abroad programs, and participation in design competitions, enhancing employability and global outlook. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in product development, user experience design, sustainable design, consultancy, and various creative industries. They leave with a versatile skill set, a strong portfolio, and a mindset oriented toward continuous innovation and lifelong learning. The program is delivered by experienced faculty who are active practitioners and researchers in the field of design, ensuring that students are engaged with the latest trends and technologies. With state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant creative community, Victoria University of Wellington provides an inspiring environment for aspiring design innovators to thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.

Complete four core courses at 100 level (and the other 100-level major courses):

• Design Visualisation (DSDN 101)
• Ideas and Principles of Design (DSDN 111)
• Design in Context (DSDN 171)
• Either Writing at University (WRIT 101) or Writing in English as a Second Language (WRIT 151)

Complete Digital Creation (DSDN 104) and Experimenting with Materials (DSDN 141).

Complete Object Based Experiments (INDN 211) and Product Based Experiments (INDN 212).

Complete four courses at 300 level:

• Digital Form (INDN 311)
• Brand + Identity (INDN 312)
• Either Tangible Interactions Design (INDN 321) or Mass Production + Digital Manufacturing (INDN 341)

One course from:

• Live Theory (CCDN 331)
• Computer Generated Culture (CCDN 344)
• Future under Negotiation (INDN 332)

Students completing a major in Industrial Design may obtain a specialisation in Design for Digital Making by including the following three courses:

• Design Physiology (INDN 252)
• Mass Production + Digital Manufacturing (INDN 341)
• Digital Fabrication (INDN 342).

Students completing a major in Industrial Design may obtain a specialisation in Design for Future Technologies by including the following three courses:

• Speculative Design (CCDN 242) or Computer Generated Culture (CCDN 344)
• Design Physiology (INDN 252)
• Future under Negotiation (INDN 332)

Students completing a major in Industrial Design may obtain a specialisation in Tangible Interactions Design by including the following three courses:

• Design Psychology (DSDN 251)
• Brand + Identity (INDN 312)
• Tangible Interactions Design (INDN 321)

Non-BDI students doing the Industrial Design major must also complete either Design Visualisation (DSDN 101) or Ideas and Principles of Design (DSDN 111).

Requirements

• Achievement of the International Baccalaureate Diploma
• Submit your completed application to be assessed for New Zealand entrance equivalency
• IELTS: minimum overall score of 6.0 with no sub-score below 5.5
• TOEFL: minimum overall score of 80 (internet-based test)
• Pearson Test of English: minimum score of 58 (with a 'Communicative score' of not less than 50)
• EPP: minimum final scores of 4,4,4,3

Scholarships

• Creativity Scholarships
• Wellington U3A Award
• VUW Hardship Fund Equity Grants
• International Student Achievement Scholarship
• VUW Equity Grants For Students From Refugee Backgrounds

Design Innovation at Victoria University of Wellington is a forward-thinking programme that combines creativity, technology, and strategic thinking to address contemporary design challenges. The programme aims to equip students with the skills necessary to innovate in a variety of design fields, including product design, interaction design, and service design, among others. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students learn to develop user-centered solutions that are both functional and aesthetically compelling, while also considering sustainability and social impact. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, encouraging learners to work on real-world projects that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative skills. Students gain insights into the latest design tools and methodologies, such as human-centered design, prototyping, and digital fabrication, preparing them to excel in fast-paced and dynamic environments. The programme promotes an entrepreneurial mindset, supporting students to develop ideas from conception through to implementation, often collaborating with industry partners and community organizations. Additionally, Victoria University of Wellington provides state-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, labs, and innovation hubs, to facilitate experiential learning. Graduates of the Design Innovation programme are equipped to pursue careers in design consultancy, innovation management, product development, user experience design, and entrepreneurship. They are also prepared to contribute to the evolving landscape of design by applying innovative thinking to solve societal challenges and to develop sustainable solutions. The programme fosters an inclusive and collaborative learning environment, encouraging diversity of thought and interdisciplinary collaboration, which enriches the educational experience and prepares students for global opportunities. Overall, Design Innovation at Victoria University of Wellington is a comprehensive programme that aims to nurture creative problem-solvers capable of leading positive change across industries and communities.