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Contents

Quick Facts

Programme Tabs

Overview

Programme Overview

The Postgraduate Certificate in Design (PGCertDes) provides the opportunity for you 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 the minimum GPA for entry 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.

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.

Programme Careers

Potential Careers

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

Further Study Options

Student career planning services

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

Key Information for Students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.

Entry Requirements, Fees and Dates

Programme Entry Requirements

Other qualifications

If your highest qualification was gained from another tertiary institution, view our entry requirements.


University of Auckland 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.

Taught (60 point) - 3.5 Grade Point Average

A Bachelors degree

Calculate your Grade Point Average (GPA)

Postgraduate Requirements

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

Other Pathways to Study

You must have completed a Bachelors degree at a recognised university (or similar institution), with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher in 60 points above stage II.

If you do not meet the above entry requirements, but have other relevant experience and think you would be successful in postgraduate study, please contact us to discuss alternative pathways into our programmes. 

Fees and scholarships

Fees

Fees Disclaimer

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. Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses. For more information, please see Fees and Money Matters.

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

Scholarships

Scholarships and awards

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Loans and Allowances

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

Cost of living

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

Key Dates

Application Advice

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.

Key Dates

SemesterApplication Closing DateSemester Start DateSemester End Date
2026 Semester One08 December 202502 March 202629 June 2026
2027 Semester One01 March 2027

Other Important Dates

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

Regulations

Preamble

The regulations for this postgraduate certificate are to be read in conjunction with all other relevant statutes and regulations including the Academic Statutes and Regulations.

Admission

1 In order to be admitted to this postgraduate certificate, an applicant must have:

a completed the requirements for a Bachelors degree from this University with a Grade Point Average of 3.5 or higher, or have equivalent prior study

or

b completed the requirements for a Bachelors degree from this University with a Grade Point Average of 3.5 or higher in 60 points above Stage II.

2 Equivalence in Regulation 1 will be determined by the University. Equivalence pertains to the standard as well as nature and level of study.

3 In exceptional circumstances the requirements in Regulation 1 may be waived by the relevant Associate Dean Academic or nominee if they determine that an applicant has at least three years of relevant practical, professional or scholarly experience that provides an equivalent level of preparation.

Duration and Total Points Value

4 A student admitted to this postgraduate certificate must:

a pass courses with a total value of 60 points

and

b complete within the time limit specified in the General Regulations – Postgraduate Certificates

and

c not exceed 90 points for the total enrolment in this postgraduate certificate.

Structure and Content

5 A student admitted to this postgraduate certificate must complete the requirements as listed in the Postgraduate Certificate in Design Schedule.

6 A student must complete the University of Auckland Academic Integrity course as specified in the Enrolment and Programme Regulations, Academic Integrity, of the University Calendar.

Variations

7 In exceptional circumstances the Programme Director may approve a variation to a student’s programme of study in accordance with the Enrolment and Programme Regulations.

Regulation Commencement or Amendment

8 These regulations and/or schedule have been amended with effect from 1 January 2025.

Schedule

Programme Schedules

Complete 60 points comprising:

  • 60 points for all Compulsory Courses, and
  • 1 item from Academic Integrity Course

Compulsory Courses

Complete 60 points for ALL of the following:

Academic Integrity Course

Complete exactly 1 of the following:

Degree Plan

Overview

Degree Plan for the Postgraduate Certificate in Design

Year 1
Semester One
Design Research Methodologies
Compulsory Courses
15.0 Points
Design Practices
Compulsory Courses
15.0 Points
Design Technologies
Compulsory Courses
30.0 Points
Academic Integrity Course
Academic Integrity Course
Points

Graduate Profile and Programme Capabilities

Graduate Profile

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Programme Capabilities

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Programme Capabilities to Graduate Profile Map

Programme Learning OutcomesPeople and PlaceSustainabilityKnowledge and PracticeCritical ThinkingSolution-SeekingCommunicationCollaborationEthics and Professionalism