Master of Design specialising in Industrial Design

Postgraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Program code

MADES

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$44,500

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115905C

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; OR
A completed nested or related graduate certificate (AQF level 8) or higher or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Master of Design?

Industrial design sits at the intersection of art, research and human-centered innovation.

Develop the skills to reimagine the objects and experiences that shape our daily lives. Blend cutting-edge technology, sustainable thinking and user insights to design solutions that are both functional and inspiring.

In this Master of Design degree, you'll learn to create solutions that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing, but also meaningful and impactful. Master the latest digital design tools and tackle complex design problems – exploring sustainable materials and collaborating with industry partners.

Whether your passion lies in consumer electronics, furniture or transportation, Adelaide University will equip you with the expertise to become a leader in the field of industrial design.

Overview

Enhance your ability to create innovative products for today’s world with our Master of Design specialising in Industrial Design. We will provide you with a thorough understanding of the dynamic and ever-evolving field of industrial design, building upon your existing knowledge and skillset.

Learn in our custom-built workshops, where you’ll work with laser cutters, CNC routers and 3D printers. Through core courses, electives and major projects, you’ll go beyond building your practical design skills, also developing your research capabilities and analytical thinking.

By combining hands-on studio work with theory and industry engagement, our Master of Design will empower you to shape the future of industrial design and make a lasting impact on how people interact with the world around them. You might design smart water bottles, multi-use furniture or even self-cleaning surfaces.

Graduate ready to drive innovation in established companies, launch entrepreneurial ventures or pursue further research in design.

Key features

Develop advanced technical skills needed to design physical products, systems, interfaces and environments.
Benefit from our global networks and relationships in industrial design.
Learn from teachers who are currently practising and have strong links to industry.
Work on real-life projects in custom-built on-campus workshops.
Exit from your studies early and graduate with a graduate diploma qualification.
Use this qualification as a pathway to further studies, including PhD studies.

What you'll learn

Our Master of Design dives into the complexities of product design, enhancing and expanding on your current expertise. Build a sophisticated skillset of tools and methodologies to investigate human-centred design challenges, while also developing advanced strategies for managing intricate design projects.

Explore the following topics in your first year of study:

Art and design masters foundation studio
Nature, culture and sustainability
Art and design advanced theory
Art and design business practices
Art and design interdisciplinary studio
Art and design research methods.

Engage in hands-on design research studio classes to develop the advanced technical skills required to create functional and innovative designs. Complete electives and a yearlong research project in your second year, aligning your studies with niche areas of interest.

Our specialisation in Industrial Design puts human-centred research and design thinking at the forefront of your learning. Investigate design problems and develop innovative solutions, honing your skills in reviewing and analysing research. You’ll also discover emerging materials and processing technologies, including 3D design.

Graduate with the design sensibilities to develop and design physical products, systems and interfaces. Focus on areas that are of particular interest to you – whether that’s furniture, consumable goods packaging or even personal electronics.

Specialisations

The Master of Design is also available with specialisations in the following:

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

66 units for all Core courses, and
Either:
12 units for one Specialisation from Specialisations, or
12 units for all Discipline courses, and
6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
12 units for Electives

Complete 66 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Art and Design Masters Foundation Studio	Course code ARCH5006	Units 12
Course name Art and Design Interdisciplinary Studio	Course code ARCH5013	Units 12
Course name Art and Design Business Practices	Course code ARCH5016	Units 6
Course name Art and Design Research Methods	Course code ARCH6000	Units 6
Course name Art and Design Masters Project 1	Course code ARCH6006	Units 12
Course name Arts and Design Masters Project 2	Course code ARCH6007	Units 12
Course name Art and Design Masters Report	Course code ARCH6008	Units 6

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Nature, Culture and Sustainability	Course code ARCH5012	Units 6
	Course name Art and Design Advanced Theory	Course code ARCH5018	Units 6

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Art and Design Professional Experience	Course code ARCH6901	Units 6

Complete 12 units comprising:

12 units from Free electives

Career outcomes

Our Master of Design specialising in Industrial Design will provide you with the advanced skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the professional field of industrial design.

You might design sustainable and unique 3D printed furniture made from discarded fruit and vegetable scraps. Maybe you’ll design wearable devices that filter air around the user, providing clean air in polluted environments while being portable and stylish. Perhaps you’ll create smart kitchen devices that adjust cooking times and temperatures based on the type of food and user preferences.

The skills acquired in our industrial design program are transferable to many industries such as design agencies and government departments, along with scientific, technical, manufacturing and retail companies. This allows graduates to pivot into other design-related roles and increase employability.

Other careers to consider include:

Industrial designer
Product designer
Furniture designer.

Industry trends

The future of industrial design will be characterised by a commitment to sustainability, the integration of advanced technologies, a focus on human-centered approaches and an embrace of minimalism (Yanko Design, 2024). Designers will play a crucial role in creating innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of society while addressing environmental challenges.

Designers are increasingly integrating principles of sustainability into their work, focusing on minimising environmental impact throughout the product lifecycle (Spark Innovations, 2024). This shift is not only a response to consumer demand but is also necessary to address climate change and resource scarcity. Adelaide University’s commitment to sustainability means our graduates will understand how the future of industrial design can be both functional and environmentally responsible.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: