Modules
Block 1: Design Values and the Value of Design
This studio-based module explores what design stands for, the values that shape it and the impact it can have on people, organisations and communities. Students will examine the relationship between ethics, culture, sustainability and economics, considering how design can create meaningful change across both digital and physical environments.
Through research, critical thinking and practical application, students will explore how design responds to social, environmental and commercial challenges. The module introduces key principles of sustainable and regenerative practice, including circular design and the Design Council’s Skills for Planet framework, while encouraging collaboration across different design disciplines.
Students will develop research, communication and project management skills, enabling them to confidently apply their understanding of design’s purpose, value and impact within professional practice.
Block 2: Design Methods and Practice
This module develops the advanced research skills needed to support postgraduate design practice. You will explore the role of research within your discipline, developing your ability to investigate, analyse and communicate complex ideas while reflecting on your own skills, values and approach as a contemporary designer.
Through lectures, seminars and workshops, you will be introduced to a range of research methods and approaches relevant to design and innovation. You will learn how to apply these methods to your own projects, using research to inform decision-making, strengthen design strategies and develop more meaningful outcomes.
The module also explores cultural contexts and the wider impact of design, considering areas such as identity, material culture, accessibility, social values and the relationship between people and the designed environment. You will examine how responsible design practice connects with sustainability and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Working collaboratively on a Service Design project, you will apply your research skills to a real-world challenge, developing new approaches to problem-solving while gaining experience of interdisciplinary design practice.
Block 3: Select one from the following:
- Sustainability Strategy and Design
Debates surrounding sustainability have become increasingly prominent due to greater awareness among consumers of environmental and ethical issues, as well as initiatives by many companies to improve their sustainable credentials. This module examines key historical and contemporary contexts relating to sustainable design and corporate strategy, unpicking the complex debates surrounding a range of issues from worker’s rights to product lifecycles. Alternative perspectives on the traditional production and consumption model will be introduced, and both practical and conceptual aspects considered.
This module addresses the needs of students aiming to work in design, manufacturing, or retail, providing future managers and entrepreneurs with a clear overview of the major sustainability issues within their industry. The impact of ethical and environmental considerations on designed products, production and business ideology will be analysed. It will cover sustainable development, ethical supply chains, corporate sustainability strategy, circular economy, slow fashion/lifestyle design, lifecycle analysis, alternative production and consumption models, integrated system design/ sustainable innovation, climate change, biodiversity, toxicity and sustainable resources.
This module will explore how the design of spaces can tell a story. You will consider the interaction between objects, space and stories, in order to better understand complex ideas, messages or emotional connections and empathy. The interpretation of ‘space’ will be stretched beyond physical space and you will also explore how digital platforms can play a significant role in enhancing and immersing people in the built environment. There will be a particular focus on how modern retail environments and progressive museum and exhibition design use a combination of spaces and experiences to convey a story.
You will produce a group design project and presentation as a design team, with flexibility within the design brief to propose a multi-layered design concept proposal.
This module is designed to prepare you for a career in UX/UI design. You will develop the skills to design a user interface that enhances the user experience using tools and techniques used in industry.
The content of the module will include conducting research to devise a UX Strategy and you will develop an understanding of Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Human Interface guidelines and best practice. You will apply UX design principles, tools, and techniques to an existing or new design solution incorporating awareness of Inclusive design, data security and privacy. The design concept will be enhanced with usability testing and performance reviews (using data analysis) leading to further design iterations.
Technological advancements in design and manufacturing are rapidly evolving. Designers across all specialisms are exploring how technology can support them in creating and innovating to develop new practices, drive change, and impact the way we live. This module provides a platform for you to explore a range of technologies and deepen your knowledge and practice in this field.
You will research various technologies and collaborate with staff to identify an area you would like to investigate. This could include computer-aided design (CAD), computer visualisation, virtual prototyping, direct digital manufacturing, and the development of new equipment, materials, artefacts, and devices. Staff will offer guidance and support, facilitating partnerships between students and technologies, whether internally within the university or externally with local industry.
Block 4: Select one from the following:
Design Synthesis and Problem Solving
This module develops the skills and approaches needed to respond to complex design challenges through research, creativity and strategic thinking. You will explore how designers can move beyond assumptions, using evidence and insights to understand and address real-world problems.
Through experimentation, analysis and collaboration, you will explore a range of design tools and methods that support innovative problem-solving. The module encourages you to work across disciplines, translating research into design responses that are culturally relevant, ethically responsible, sustainable and capable of creating positive social or commercial impact.
By the end of the module, you will have strengthened your design expertise and developed the confidence, curiosity and resilience needed to approach complex challenges with informed, strategic and innovative solutions.
Business and Marketing Strategies
This module explores how creative ideas can be developed into viable products, services or experiences through the integration of design thinking, entrepreneurship and business strategy. You will develop the knowledge and confidence to understand how creative concepts can move from initial ideas into market-ready opportunities.
Through research, analysis and strategic planning, you will explore areas including marketing, consumer behaviour, industry trends, competitive positioning, innovation and financial planning. You will learn how to identify opportunities, understand your target audience and develop a clear value proposition that responds to real-world needs.
By the end of the module, you will have developed a professional business plan that communicates the potential of your concept, supported by market research, strategic thinking and financial considerations. The module will equip you with the skills to confidently navigate the relationship between creativity, entrepreneurship and commercial success.
Blocks 5: Select one from the following:
Major Design Project
This module provides the opportunity for you to bring together the knowledge, skills and approaches developed throughout your postgraduate studies into an independent and ambitious piece of work. You will take ownership of your project, demonstrating initiative, critical thinking and the ability to manage a complex design challenge at a professional level.
Supported by academic guidance, you will develop a project that applies advanced research, design methods and creative decision-making to your chosen area of interest. You will be expected to respond with originality, demonstrating the ability to analyse, evaluate and develop informed solutions through independent practice.
The module allows you to shape the direction and focus of your final project in line with your future ambitions, whether progressing into professional design practice, entrepreneurship or further academic study. You can choose to place greater emphasis on design practice supported by critical reflection, or focus on research and critical evaluation supported by a smaller design outcome.
By the end of the module, you will demonstrate the confidence, independence and strategic thinking required to contribute meaningfully to contemporary design practice.
Work-based Project
This module provides the opportunity to apply the knowledge, skills and approaches developed throughout the programme within a practical, professional context. Working with an external organisation on a live project, you will experience how design research, creative thinking and strategic approaches are applied to real-world challenges.
You will bring together learning from across the programme, including research methods, design practice and specialist areas of interest, to develop meaningful outcomes in response to an industry brief. Supported by both the host organisation and university supervision, you will negotiate project outcomes that may include research reports, design proposals, strategic recommendations or other professional outputs.
By the end of the module, you will have gained valuable experience of collaborative working, professional communication and applying your design skills within an industry context.
Note: All modules are indicative and based on the current academic session. Course information is correct at the time of publication and is subject to review. Exact modules may, therefore, vary for your intake in order to keep content current. If there are changes to your course we will, where reasonable, take steps to inform you as appropriate.