Want to play your part in designing our future? Interested in a human-centred and sustainable approach to the design of products, services and systems for commercial, industrial and community use? Embark on this hands-on qualification, offered by one of New Zealand's most innovative and progressive product design schools, and prepare for a career in an exciting and diverse industry. Creative and practical designers question the way things are and create alternatives, be it through sustainable material use or by creating solutions that encourage sustainable user-behaviour. Employment opportunities are diverse which means you could pursue a career as a design consultant, technology teacher or 3D CAD specialist, or be part of a larger creative or industrial interdisciplinary team. Alternatively, you could start your own entrepreneurial design business. During this programme, you will acquire the technical, practical and conceptual skills needed to fulfill the cultural, ecological and economic implications of your role as you become a product designer. You will explore human-centred approaches, manufacturing processes and aesthetic considerations to enhance your concepts and ideas, and will enjoy a balanced curriculum of theoretical content and studio-based projects. In addition, you will gain hands-on experience designing a wide range of products and services within fields such as transportation, health and service design (with a primary focus on human needs and the interface between the product and the user) and will benefit from our workshop facilities, up-to-date CAD suites and the chance to showcase your talent. Skills required Creativity and vision A passion for design The ability to see an idea through from concept to reality Practical ability The ability to communicate your ideas to others An interest in people and the world around you. Further study options Continue your learning with our graduate or postgraduate programmes in Design or Art, or increase your career options with a graduate teacher training programme. Programme specific risks Prior to enrolment, you are advised of the programme specific risks in workshops and CAD rooms. This information is provided by way of discussion at interview and written notification with acceptance and you will be required to undertake training before independent use of many types of equipment in workshops and studios. Risks include wood, metal, plastics, textiles, painting plant and equipment. You will be required to attend Otago Polytechnic training sessions in first aid and computer health and safety and will have significant exposure to working conditions in relevant design software. Your workload There is an emphasis throughout the three year programme on the development of independent learning skills. This is reflected in the decrease of directed hours over the three years with an expectation that, by the end of year three, you will be an independent learner.