Graduate Diploma in Design (Specialty)
Design
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Develop advanced design skills in Communication, Fashion, or Product Design with this intensive, studio-based graduate diploma for those holding a degree in design or related fields.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Specialist practical skills
Develop advanced, specialist skills in your chosen design area—Communication, Fashion, or Product Design—through practical and project-based learning.
Industry engagement
Gain experience working with 'real' clients, creating design-based solutions and services in response to industry needs.
Professional research and strategy
Extend your professional research techniques and gain a deeper understanding of strategic requirements within the design industry.
What You're Signing Up For
The Graduate Diploma in Design (Specialty) is an intensive one-year programme designed for those with an existing degree in design, art, or related fields, or equivalent industry experience. Choose a specialisation in Communication, Fashion, or Product Design, and develop specialist practical skills and studio project experience to advance your knowledge and professional portfolio. The programme features studio-based learning, industry connections, small class sizes, and electives across areas such as Softgoods, Photography, Storytelling, and Web Design. You will work on real-world client projects and display your work in a public exhibition. Graduates can further hone their skills in specialist postgraduate programmes, or move into professional design roles.
Course Content
- Specialty core classes in Communication, Fashion, or Product Design
- Studio workshops and practical project experience
- Bachelor of Design courses at Levels 5, 6, and 7
- Electives including Softgoods/Accessories, Photography, Storytelling, Enterprise, Web Design, Metals/Jewellery, Storyboarding and Illustration, Exhibition Design
- Professional and strategic requirements of the design industry
- Professional research techniques
- Interdisciplinary Studio
- Client-focused and industry-engaged projects
- 'Excite' end-of-year exhibition
What you need to know first
Recognised undergraduate degree in a design- or art-related field, or degree-equivalent practical, professional or scholarly experience
Submission of a portfolio demonstrating design/art/creative competencies
Interview with Academic Leader including review of portfolio
For international students: equivalent secondary qualification and English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0, no band less than 6.0, or equivalent)
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Design
Creative Industries
Fashion
Product Design
Communication Design
Future employment opportunities might be
Professional designer in chosen specialty (Communication, Fashion, or Product Design)
Design consultant
Studio practitioner
Project manager in creative industries
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.