Product Design

The Bachelor of Product Design at the University of Canterbury is a comprehensive program dedicated to fostering innovative thinking, creative problem-solving, and practical design skills in students. This degree prepares graduates to excel in the dynamic field of product development, combining artistic creativity with technical expertise. Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on projects that simulate real-world design challenges, encouraging a user-centered approach and sustainable design principles. The curriculum covers core areas such as conceptual design, prototyping, ergonomics, materials science, and manufacturing processes, equipping students with a broad skill set applicable across various industries. Students also develop strong competencies in digital tools and technologies essential for modern product design, including 3D modeling and computer-aided design (CAD). The program emphasizes teamwork, communication, and critical thinking, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for collaboration in multidisciplinary environments. In addition to technical skills, students explore the cultural, social, and environmental implications of their designs, fostering a responsible and innovative mindset. The Bachelor of Product Design at Canterbury University benefits from experienced faculty members, state-of-the-art facilities, and industry collaborations that provide students with practical experience and networking opportunities. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers in industrial design, user experience (UX) design, automotive design, consumer electronics, and entrepreneurial ventures. The program aims to produce versatile designers capable of contributing positively to society through innovative and sustainable product solutions.

The degree is a three-year 360 points qualification with a combination of coursework and design projects: 

• 165 points of Science and Engineering courses
• 135 points focused on Product Design
• 60 points of Business or Management courses.

Design projects will involve independent work on open-ended projects, with a mix of individual and team-based activities, under close supervision by academics with experience in product design.

You can start the Bachelor of Product Design degree in February 2018.

Subjects and courses

From 2018, you can study one of three majors within the Bachelor of Product Design.

Applied Immersive Game Design

Applied Immersive Game Design covers both virtual and augmented reality – an industry that is currently undergoing massive growth. Students learn about the development of games for entertainment, and “applied” games for training/education and for carrying out remote activities.

Chemical, Natural and Healthcare Product Formulation

Chemical, biological, pharmaceutical, food, and personal care products must be formulated in a way that enables their practical, safe and sustainable use. For example, a moisturising skin lotion must not only contain moistening agents but also the components required to create a stable colloidal suspension with suitable viscosity, skin feel and fragrance to make it an attractive product for the consumer, with anti-microbial agents and a suitably long shelf-life. This major will allow you to explore ways to better formulate these products, and to analyse existing products and suggest improvements.

Industrial Product Design

Every product we buy has a combination of both design and usability elements. This major will teach you how to design products which solve a problem and create desire in consumers. You will learn to understand consumer needs and trends, and create more efficient designs and features for products. These could include a new microwave reheating feature or an improved vacuum cleaner.

Admission to UC with University Entrance, or equivalent, is required to enrol for a Bachelor's degree. Domestic applicants over 20 who do not hold University Entrance, or equivalent, may gain admission by providing evidence of their ability to complete tertiary study successfully. 

For information on gaining admission to UC please see how to apply for undergraduate qualifications.

Recommended preparation

At least 14 credits in Level 2 NCEA science and mathematics are strongly recommended, while those intending to take the Chemical, Natural and Healthcare Product Formulation major should ideally have 14 credits in Level 3 NCEA chemistry (or the IB/CIE equivalent of these).

Credits in related subjects such as digital technologies, technology, or design and visual communication would be an advantage.

The University of Canterbury offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Bachelor of Product Design programme. Domestic students can access government-supported loans and allowances, including the New Zealand Student Loan, which covers tuition fees and some living expenses. International students are required to pay tuition fees upfront or arrange private funding, as government funding options typically do not apply to them. The university provides a range of scholarships and bursaries specifically aimed at design students, which can significantly offset the cost of tuition and materials. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and specific eligibility criteria related to design fields. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources such as government or private grants, sponsorships, or industry sponsorships that support study in design disciplines.

The university also offers flexible payment plans, allowing students to pay tuition fees in installments instead of a lump sum. Part-time work options are available both during the semester and in breaks, enabling students to earn income while studying to help cover expenses related to fees, materials, and living costs. International students may also consider on-campus employment or internships, which can offer financial support and valuable experience in the product design field. As part of the university’s commitment to accessibility, there are often special funding opportunities for students facing financial hardship, which may include emergency loans or grants. It is recommended that prospective and enrolled students consult the university’s financial aid office for personalized advice and to explore all available options, ensuring they can support their education financially while pursuing a degree in Product Design at the University of Canterbury.

Career opportunities

The scope of product design roles is widening from the traditional design of commercial products to include the design of user experiences, systems and processes as well as implementing virtual reality into existing applications.

Increasingly, many industrial and product designers work in multidisciplinary teams. Graduates may be employed in design departments for large manufacturing companies, design agencies, engineering consultancies, central and local government.

They may do design work for businesses in many industries such as medical, home appliances, packaging, computing, graphic design, cosmetics, or therapeutics and pharmaceutical companies.

Product designers may choose to start their own company.