Research
We have a vibrant research community of academic staff, external and industry partners, and Master’s and PhD students. Our postgraduate students work closely with staff and industry collaborators on research projects that address a wide range of contemporary design challenges.
Areas of research
Find out about the supervising staff, research groups, and study options available in our main research areas.
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Communication Design
Practitioners and researchers in Communication Design speak the language of culture: dynamic, expressive, and visual
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Design for Social Innovation
Examine the myriad ways that design interacts with culture, society, technology, and the environment.
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Fashion Design Technology
When technology intersects with fashion and textiles, we see cutting-edge results in science, sports, architecture, and aerospace.
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Film, Animation, and Visual Effects
Blend your creativity with emerging technologies and learn how to bring stories to life through film, animation, and visual effects.
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Game design
Game Design looks at the practice of game design and development, exploring the medium and the variety of ways in which it can engage an audience.
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Industrial Design
Researchers in industrial design investigate experiences and products that affect human and environmental wellbeing.
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Media Design
Develop a critical understanding of the role of design in complex media environments and designed channels for communication.
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Te Ao Hurihuri
Find out about research and practice in design by tangata whenua with a focus on mātauranga Māori and kaupapa Māori research.
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User Experience and Interaction Design
Understand the identity of users and learn how to create the designs with which they interact.
Research news
Cumulus Association
School of Design Innovation is a member of the Cumulus Association–the leading global association to serve art and design education and research.
PhD research
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Current PhD research
Meet a selection of PhD students in the Wellington School of Design Innovation and learn about their research.
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Past PhD students
Read about the theses of students who have completed their PhDs.