Communication Design Subject regulations
Graphic Design, known as Graphic Arts, Visual Communication Design, or at the University of Waikato Communication Design, is where we prepare Design students for the world of Advertising, Marketing, and Graphic Design. Learn to combine words and images across different media to engage audiences through your creative storytelling and image making.
Communication Design is available as a first major for the Bachelor of Design (BDes). Communication Design may also be included as a second major or minor in other undergraduate degrees, subject to approval of the Division in which the student is enrolled.
To complete Communication Design as a single major, students must gain 135 points from papers listed for Communication Design, including 105 points above 100 level, and 60 points above 200 level. Students must complete DSIGN141, DSIGN142, DSIGN241, DSIGN242, DSIGN243, COMPX324, DSIGN341, DSIGN342 and DSIGN360.
To complete Communication Design as a second major, students must gain 120 points from papers listed for Communication Design, including 90 points above 100 level, and 45 points above 200 level. Students must complete DSIGN141, DSIGN142, DSIGN241, DSIGN242, DSIGN243, and 45 points from COMPX324, DSIGN341, DSIGN342 or DSIGN360.
To complete a minor in Communication Design, students must complete 60 points from the papers listed for the Communication Design major, including at least 30 points above 100 level.
Candidates who wish to structure a strong qualification that will prepare them well for the creative industries should consider a double major pathway. Consider pairing Communication Design with Interface Design or another major to create a qualification that sets you apart from other Design graduates in Aotearoa. Discuss these options with the Design undergraduate advisor.
Other qualifications
Prescriptions for:
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GradCert(ComDes) and GradDip(ComDes) A Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma are available to graduates who have not included Communication Design at an advanced level in their first degree.
For further details, contact the Division of Health, Engineering, Computing and Science Office.
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BDes(Hons) The qualification regulations define the subject requirements for the Bachelor of Design with Honours.
Communication Design papers
Code and paper title | Points | |
---|---|---|
COMPX101
Introduction to Programming
This paper introduces computer programming in C# - the exciting challenge of creating software and designing artificial worlds within the computer... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25A (Online) & 25B (Hamilton) & 25B (Secondary School - Unistart) & 25X (Hainan University, Haikou China) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
COMPX161
Introduction to the Web
This paper introduces the core Web technologies of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Students will learn how to combine these technologies with design... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25I (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
CSMAX170
Foundations in Computing and Mathematical Sciences
The objective of this paper is to provide students with the academic foundations for computing and mathematical sciences. The paper will cover the... |
15 | No occurrences |
DSIGN125
Introduction to Communication Design Production
This paper enables students to perform basic computing operations and to operate software packages for the manipulation of visual images and text for... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25A (Online) & 25A (Secondary School - Unistart) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN141
Principles of Form and Design
This paper develops the student's ability to recognise and utilise the basic elements and principles of design both two and three dimensionally. It... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN142
Beyond the Basics of Design
This paper develops the student's ability to put into graphic application the basic elements and principles of design. It will also provide an... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN151
Design History
Students journey through a thematic history of design and its interplay with society and technology by studying historical artefacts that influence... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN161
Introduction to the Web
This paper introduces the core Web technologies of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Students will learn how to combine these technologies with design... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) |
MEDIA102
Film Production 1: Telling Stories
A hands-on practice paper in which students learn to apply film production theory to communicate ideas and tell stories. Students gain experience... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
Code and paper title | Points | |
---|---|---|
DSIGN241
Aspects of Web Design
This paper presents the students with the challenge of designing, developing and publishing content for the World Wide Web, working with content... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN242
Interactive Environments
This paper presents the students with the challenge of designing interactive media environments of different types. The students are challenged to... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN243
Visual Language and Information Design
This paper offers students the possibility to explore the area of information design. By using their knowledge of principles of design, visual... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN251
Applied Computing Tools 1
This paper enables students to widen their experience of design relevant computer software using an intensive laboratory programme. Students select... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25B (Hamilton) & 25H (Hamilton) |
DSIGN252
Cultural Perspectives for Design
The paper provides students with an understanding of culture-specific perspectives on design issues and the ability to apply these in diverse... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN271
Design Thinking
The paper presents the iterative process of design, used to understand users, challenge assumptions and redefine problems through empathising with... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) |
DSIGN290
Directed Study
A directed study involving the design, implementation and testing of the solution to a creative industries problem and production of a formal report. |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hamilton) |
Code and paper title | Points | |
---|---|---|
COMPX324
User Experience Design
An introduction to the field of user experience - where students develop skills and techniques for the design and evaluation of interfaces for... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25B (Tauranga) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN341
Design Systems
This paper introduces students to design systems, visual identity systems, and typographic systems, preparing the students to apply these systems... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN342
User Centred Design
This paper provides opportunity for students to develop skills in design methods. Students will solve visual design problems for diverse target... |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN350
Design Internship
This paper will induct the design student into the professional environment where the student applies design skills, research methodology and... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN360
Capstone Project
In this paper students plan, develop and execute a small scale design project with relative independence alongside the guidance of a supervisor. |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou China) |
DSIGN361
Portfolio Project
This paper is an opportunity for students to develop and refine a professional portfolio showcasing their design work. |
15 | 25B (Hamilton) |
DSIGN390
Directed Study
A directed study involving the design, implementation and testing of the solution to a creative industries problem and production of a formal report. |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hamilton) |
DSIGN397
Work Integrated Learning Directed Study
A directed study undertaken in collaboration with an industry partner involving the development of a design project and the production of a formal... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hamilton) |
DSIGN398
Work Integrated Learning Directed Study
A directed study undertaken in collaboration with an industry partner involving the development of a design project and the production of a formal... |
30 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25B (Hamilton) & 25X (Hamilton) |
Code and paper title | Points | |
---|---|---|
DSIGN532
Information Visualisation
This paper aims to provide an awareness of the potential offered by information visualisation techniques, a familiarity with the underlying concepts... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) |
DSIGN551
Design Project Management
This paper covers the management of design projects in the studio. It is intended for those aiming for a future senior position in a design studio... |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) |
DSIGN581
Research Methods
This paper aims to introduce students to the assumptions underlying the different methodologies and methods for performing research in design and... |
30 | 25A (Hamilton) |
DSIGN589
Directed Study
Students have the opportunity to pursue a topic of their own interest under the guidance of academic staff. |
15 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25B (Hamilton) |
DSIGN590
Directed Study
Students have the opportunity to pursue a topic of their own interest under the guidance of academic staff. |
30 | 25A (Hamilton) & 25B (Hamilton) |
DSIGN591
Design Dissertation
Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor... |
30 | 25X (Hamilton) |
DSIGN592
Design Dissertation
Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor... |
60 | 25X (Hamilton) |
DSIGN593
Design Thesis
Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor... |
90 | 25X (Hamilton) |
DSIGN594
Design Thesis
Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor... |
120 | 25X (Hamilton) |
-
COMPX101 Introduction to Programming
This paper introduces computer programming in C# - the exciting challenge of creating software and designing artificial worlds within the computer...
Points 15COMPX161 Introduction to the WebThis paper introduces the core Web technologies of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Students will learn how to combine these technologies with design...
Points 15CSMAX170 Foundations in Computing and Mathematical SciencesThe objective of this paper is to provide students with the academic foundations for computing and mathematical sciences. The paper will cover the...
Points 15DSIGN125 Introduction to Communication Design ProductionThis paper enables students to perform basic computing operations and to operate software packages for the manipulation of visual images and text for...
Points 15DSIGN141 Principles of Form and DesignThis paper develops the student's ability to recognise and utilise the basic elements and principles of design both two and three dimensionally. It...
Points 15DSIGN142 Beyond the Basics of DesignThis paper develops the student's ability to put into graphic application the basic elements and principles of design. It will also provide an...
Points 15DSIGN151 Design HistoryStudents journey through a thematic history of design and its interplay with society and technology by studying historical artefacts that influence...
Points 15DSIGN161 Introduction to the WebThis paper introduces the core Web technologies of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Students will learn how to combine these technologies with design...
Points 15MEDIA102 Film Production 1: Telling StoriesA hands-on practice paper in which students learn to apply film production theory to communicate ideas and tell stories. Students gain experience...
Points 15 -
DSIGN241 Aspects of Web Design
This paper presents the students with the challenge of designing, developing and publishing content for the World Wide Web, working with content...
Points 15DSIGN242 Interactive EnvironmentsThis paper presents the students with the challenge of designing interactive media environments of different types. The students are challenged to...
Points 15DSIGN243 Visual Language and Information DesignThis paper offers students the possibility to explore the area of information design. By using their knowledge of principles of design, visual...
Points 15DSIGN251 Applied Computing Tools 1This paper enables students to widen their experience of design relevant computer software using an intensive laboratory programme. Students select...
Points 15DSIGN252 Cultural Perspectives for DesignThe paper provides students with an understanding of culture-specific perspectives on design issues and the ability to apply these in diverse...
Points 15DSIGN271 Design ThinkingThe paper presents the iterative process of design, used to understand users, challenge assumptions and redefine problems through empathising with...
Points 15DSIGN290 Directed StudyA directed study involving the design, implementation and testing of the solution to a creative industries problem and production of a formal report.
Points 15 -
COMPX324 User Experience Design
An introduction to the field of user experience - where students develop skills and techniques for the design and evaluation of interfaces for...
Points 15DSIGN341 Design SystemsThis paper introduces students to design systems, visual identity systems, and typographic systems, preparing the students to apply these systems...
Points 15DSIGN342 User Centred DesignThis paper provides opportunity for students to develop skills in design methods. Students will solve visual design problems for diverse target...
Points 15DSIGN350 Design InternshipThis paper will induct the design student into the professional environment where the student applies design skills, research methodology and...
Points 15DSIGN360 Capstone ProjectIn this paper students plan, develop and execute a small scale design project with relative independence alongside the guidance of a supervisor.
Points 15DSIGN361 Portfolio ProjectThis paper is an opportunity for students to develop and refine a professional portfolio showcasing their design work.
Points 15DSIGN390 Directed StudyA directed study involving the design, implementation and testing of the solution to a creative industries problem and production of a formal report.
Points 15DSIGN397 Work Integrated Learning Directed StudyA directed study undertaken in collaboration with an industry partner involving the development of a design project and the production of a formal...
Points 15DSIGN398 Work Integrated Learning Directed StudyA directed study undertaken in collaboration with an industry partner involving the development of a design project and the production of a formal...
Points 30 -
DSIGN532 Information Visualisation
This paper aims to provide an awareness of the potential offered by information visualisation techniques, a familiarity with the underlying concepts...
Points 15DSIGN551 Design Project ManagementThis paper covers the management of design projects in the studio. It is intended for those aiming for a future senior position in a design studio...
Points 15DSIGN581 Research MethodsThis paper aims to introduce students to the assumptions underlying the different methodologies and methods for performing research in design and...
Points 30DSIGN589 Directed StudyStudents have the opportunity to pursue a topic of their own interest under the guidance of academic staff.
Points 15DSIGN590 Directed StudyStudents have the opportunity to pursue a topic of their own interest under the guidance of academic staff.
Points 30DSIGN591 Design DissertationWrite a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor...
Points 30DSIGN592 Design DissertationWrite a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor...
Points 60DSIGN593 Design ThesisWrite a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor...
Points 90DSIGN594 Design ThesisWrite a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor...
Points 120
2025 Catalogue of Papers information current as of 5 Nov 2024 01:00am