Art & Design

Our MSc Design programme offers a creative approach to design for engineering designers and recent graduates from product design and technology backgrounds. You develop greater practical understanding of integrated approaches to new product development, from initial user and market research to prototyping, testing and manufacture. A particular focus on strategic thinking, design innovation and business awareness provides you with a broad skills base to enhance your career potential. There is a strong emphasis on sustainability which reflects emerging issues in design and the technology-based industries.

Find out more about the postgraduate bursaries

What you study

The course is divided into Stages. Stages 1 and 2 enable you to build professional skills and knowledge in a range of 20- and 30-credit modules to prepare you for a final, 60-credit project in Stage 3.

How you learn

You work in a studio-based environment, with access to a digital studio and rapid prototyping and traditional workshops. Learning is largely project driven, normally with twice-weekly timetabled days where lectures, seminars, critiques and tutorials support the learning process. As an enterprising, self-motivated student you work both independently and collaboratively with your peers using the extensive resources and facilities available to you. You are encouraged to reflect upon your own learning in the context of career development and the opportunities open to you.

How you are assessed

Your achievement is assessed mainly through project work, including evidence of the research and development process as well as the production and presentation of prototypes and/or visuals at a project critique. Other assessment methods include written reports, presentations and a sustainability audit.

Work-related learning

Live projects and industry interaction with external partners are a key element of this course.

Career opportunities

Our MSc graduates have found employment as designers and design strategists in a range of local, national and international companies.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have an undergraduate honours degree (at least 2.1) in design or engineering. Holders of an appropriate higher national diploma plus several years' relevant experience may also be accepted. All applicants will be invited to an interview.

For additional information please see the undergraduate and postgraduate entry requirements in our admissions section

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