Effective visual identities and logo designs tend to be both simple and ingenious. Their (perceived) simplicity makes them easy to read at various sizes and easy to recognize among the thousands of identities that surround them. At the same time something clever about their design should prevent them from becoming plain and make them memorable instead. This can be anything from an extra added element, a second or even third layer in the design you may not notice the first time you see it; a visual quirk, distinguished element or clever use of whitespace in a logo or identity helps to add interest and personality.

As a designer, you want to aim for designs that suit the brand, not just now but for as long as you expect the product or service to be around. Great design is likely to be perceived as such because of its conceptual and/or visual ingenuity. It holds the power to remain interesting after the first time you have seen it, which may be due to a combination of some or all of the following characteristics:

• thorough research at the base of the design
• an original and clever concept at the heart of the design
• great execution of the idea using the principles of design
• characteristic, stylish and appropriate use of typography, colour and other supportive design elements
• clever, playful and varied application of the brand identity across different media and contexts.

In this programme, we will explore all of the bolded topics above. Still, we’ll also look into the processes of idea generation, sketching, and preparing for print and discuss the importance and use of design briefs, style guides, and brand stories.

Entry requirements

Academic Requirements

NCEA Level 2
Or
A qualification or examination recognised as being equivalent to achievement of NCEA Level 2

Alternative Requirements

Applicants (including those over 20 years of age) who are unable to evidence that they meet Academic entry requirements, but who can demonstrate acquired skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, may be approved for alternative entry by the Curriculum Manager (or delegate).

English Language Requirements

If English is not the applicant’s first language they will need to provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Table.(external link)

Applicants who do not have evidence of English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, may contact NMIT for an assessment.

• IELTS 5.5 Academic (no lower than 5.0 in any subtest)

IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test

Note: Applicants who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance requirements are not required to provide evidence of English language skills.

How do these online courses work and how much time should I aim to dedicate to this course?

There are no scheduled live classes, this course is run fully online with lessons which include reading, videos to watch and activities. You work through the lesson tabs on the online course in your own time. You can choose to work through as many lessons as you like in your own time and at your own pace.

There are 16 lessons, it is expected you would spend a minimum of five hours per lesson. Remember the more time you put in to your learning the more you get out of it. You could chose to do one lesson a week or five lessons it’s up to you.

Are there assessments for course?

There are two assessments:

• Assessment 1 – Formative (feedback and indicator grade given mid-way through the course)
• Assessment 2 – Summative (100% of the final course grade given at the end of the course).