This paper presents a new shaoe optimal design method using Desing Sensitivity Analysis. Design Sensitivity, defined as the variation of the object function with respect to the design variables, is based on the total differentiation of the matrix equation obtained from discretization of governing equations with respect to design variables. Analysis of the various characteristics adn calculation of Design Sensitivity of optimization model are achieved by using finite or boundary element methods. The proposee algorithm is applied to the optimal shape design of high voltage electrode under specified conditions. It is shown, from the numerical results, that the algorithm is very useful for the optimal shape design of electric apparatus.