Communication Design (2023)

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.

On this page

• Prescriptions for the GradCert(ComDes) and GradDip(ComDes)
• Prescriptions for the BDes(Hons)
• 100 Level
• 200 Level
• 300 Level
• 500 Level

• Prescriptions for the 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.

• Prescriptions for the BDes(Hons)

  The qualification regulations define the subject requirements for the Bachelor of Design with Honours.

• 100 Level

  Code	Paper Title	Points	Occurrence / Location
  COMPX101	Introduction to Programming	15.0	23A (Hamilton), 23A (Online), 23B (Hamilton), 23B (Secondary School - Unistart) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper introduces computer programming in C# - the exciting challenge of creating software and designing artificial worlds within the computer. It also covers concepts such as the internals of the home computer, the history and future of computers, cyber security, computer gaming, databases, mobile computing and current researc...
  COMPX161	Introduction to the Web	15.0	23B (Hamilton), 23I (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper introduces the core Web technologies of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Students will learn how to combine these technologies with design principles to produce effective web content.
  CSMAX170	Foundations in Computing and Mathematical Sciences	15.0	23A (Hamilton) & 23A (Tauranga)
  The objective of this paper is to provide students with the academic foundations for computing and mathematical sciences. The paper will cover the following areas: -Effective academic reasoning and communication -Information literacy and research skills -Academic integrity -Techniques and tools in the computing and mathematical sci...
  DSIGN125	Introduction to Communication Design Production	15.0	23A (Hamilton), 23A (Online), 23A (Secondary School - Unistart) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper enables students to perform basic computing operations and to operate software packages for the manipulation of visual images and text for use in print and screen-based applications. Students will be introduced to basic computing concepts and provided with software tutorials and related exercises.
  DSIGN141	Principles of Form and Design	15.0	23A (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper develops the student's ability to recognise and utilise the basic elements and principles of design both two and three dimensionally. It explores topics related to 'thinking' and creativity with an emphasis on raising a student's creativity consciousness and attitude. The work will primarily be abstract in nature and wil...
  DSIGN142	Beyond the Basics of Design	15.0	23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper develops the student's ability to put into graphic application the basic elements and principles of design. It will also provide an introduction to typography. The emphasis of the study is to apply these basics to 2D and 3D mediums. The work will be resolved in both traditional and computer technology.
  DSIGN151	Design History	15.0	23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  Students journey through a thematic history of design and its interplay with society and technology by studying historical artefacts that influence the contemporary world.
  DSIGN161	Introduction to the Web	15.0	23B (Hamilton)
  This paper introduces the core Web technologies of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Students will learn how to combine these technologies with design principles to produce effective web content.
  MEDIA102	Film Production 1: Telling Stories	15.0	23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  A hands-on practice paper in which students learn to apply film production theory to communicate ideas and tell stories. Students gain experience capturing, constructing and manipulating both audio and moving image in the process of designing, shooting and editing digital short films.

• 200 Level

  Code	Paper Title	Points	Occurrence / Location
  DSIGN241	Aspects of Web Design	15.0	23A (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper presents the students with the challenge of designing, developing and publishing content for the World Wide Web, working with content management systems (CMS). The students are challenged to combine their typographic skills and their knowledge of design in order to practically solve communication design projects.
  DSIGN242	Interactive Environments	15.0	23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper presents the students with the challenge of designing interactive media environments of different types. The students are challenged to experiment beyond their previously acquired knowledge, designing for interactive computer screens and mobile devices.
  DSIGN243	Visual Language and Information Design	15.0	23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper offers students the possibility to explore the area of information design. By using their knowledge of principles of design, visual communication using typography and image, students will design information graphics (infographics): visual representations of information, working in the passage from data to information uti...
  DSIGN251	Applied Computing Tools 1	15.0	23A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton)
  This paper enables students to widen their experience of design relevant computer software using an intensive laboratory programme. Students select from a variety of themes, including video editing, website design, digital library development, computer game construction, animation and 3D modelling.
  DSIGN252	Cultural Perspectives for Design	15.0	23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  The paper provides students with an understanding of culture-specific perspectives on design issues and the ability to apply these in diverse contexts.
  DSIGN271	Design Thinking	15.0	23A (Hamilton)
  The paper presents the iterative process of design, used to understand users, challenge assumptions and redefine problems through empathising with users, defining their needs, ideating innovative solutions, prototyping and testing.
  DSIGN290	Directed Study	15.0	23A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Hamilton)
  A directed study involving the design, implementation and testing of the solution to a creative industries problem and production of a formal report.

• 300 Level

  Code	Paper Title	Points	Occurrence / Location
  COMPX324	User Experience Design	15.0	23B (Hamilton), 23B (Tauranga) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  An introduction to the field of human-computer interaction (HCI) where students develop skills and techniques for the design and evaluation of modern computer interfaces.
  DSIGN341	Design Systems	15.0	23A (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper challenges students to design a visual identity system and apply it across multiple deliverables in different media.
  DSIGN342	User Centred Design	15.0	23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper provides opportunity for students to develop skills in design methods. Students will solve visual design problems for diverse target audiences using theoretical and practical design methodologies.
  DSIGN350	Design Internship	15.0	23A (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  This paper will induct the design student into the professional environment where the student applies design skills, research methodology and production skills to allocated projects or industry placement.
  DSIGN360	Capstone Project	15.0	23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
  In this paper students plan, develop and execute a small scale design project with relative independence alongside the guidance of a supervisor.
  DSIGN361	Portfolio Project	15.0	23B (Hamilton)
  This paper is an opportunity for students to develop and refine a professional portfolio showcasing their design work.
  DSIGN390	Directed Study	15.0	23A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Hamilton)
  A directed study involving the design, implementation and testing of the solution to a creative industries problem and production of a formal report.
  DSIGN397	Work Integrated Learning Directed Study	15.0	23A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Hamilton)
  A directed study undertaken in collaboration with an industry partner involving the development of a design project and the production of a formal report.
  DSIGN398	Work Integrated Learning Directed Study	30.0	23A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton) & 23X (Hamilton)
  A directed study undertaken in collaboration with an industry partner involving the development of a design project and the production of a formal report.

• 500 Level

  Code	Paper Title	Points	Occurrence / Location
  DSIGN532	Information Visualisation	15.0	23A (Hamilton)
  This paper aims to provide an awareness of the potential offered by information visualisation techniques, a familiarity with the underlying concepts, and an understanding and ability to effectively design and apply information visualisations in a given context.
  DSIGN551	Studio Management	15.0	23A (Hamilton)
  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, or those managing freelance teams.
  DSIGN581	Design Research Methods	30.0	23A (Hamilton)
  This paper aims to introduce students to the assumptions underlying the different methodologies and methods for performing research in design. The paper attempts to give students the conceptual and methodological resources needed to think and converse as researchers and to develop a certain level of competence in at least one resea...
  DSIGN589	Directed Study	15.0	23A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton)
  Students have the opportunity to pursue a topic of their own interest under the guidance of academic staff.
  DSIGN590	Directed Study	30.0	23A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton)
  Students have the opportunity to pursue a topic of their own interest under the guidance of academic staff.
  DSIGN591	Design Dissertation	30.0	23X (Hamilton)
  Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor. Presentation of the findings may include a publicly exhibited design project.
  DSIGN592	Design Dissertation	60.0	23I (Hamilton) & 23X (Hamilton)
  Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor. Presentation of the findings may include a publicly exhibited design project.
  DSIGN593	Design Thesis	90.0	23X (Hamilton)
  Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor. Presentation of the findings may include a publicly exhibited design project.
  DSIGN594	Design Thesis	120.0	23X (Hamilton)
  Write a dissertation to present the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation, based on a research topic negotiated with a supervisor. Presentation of the findings may include a publicly exhibited design project.