Course summary

This course is for students with a product, furniture or a directly related 3D design degree who wish to build on their expertise, specialist knowledge and employability. You will develop an advanced understanding of design practice, learn about research methodologies, explore service design and the ways that emerging digital technologies can enhance your work. The flexibility of the curriculum allows you to focus on your individual interests and ambitions and equip you with the practical commercial skills for a successful career in the creative industries. Your studies will culminate in a self-directed design project, during which you will explore real world product design processes such as external validation, prototyping, testing, technical definition and specification. In all your designs and processes we will empower you to experiment boldly and encourage you to take risks. We aim to develop independent learners who can take their own personal and critical approach to tackling complex design challenges. Access to our sophisticated facilities, including industry-standard vector-based and three-dimensional modelling packages, will enable you to push design boundaries and realise your creative visions. Key features

• You can be awarded an MA or MSc depending on your route through your studies and final Major Project. You can also exit the course with a Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate award depending on the credits you have successfully achieved.

• Employability is embedded throughout the course, along with an understanding of professional and commercial practice, to support you in your career aspirations – whether that be as a practice-based designer, entrepreneur or in the wider creative industries.

• By considering sustainability and social responsibility in every design decision made, you will become a responsible ‘global’ citizen with the tools to tackle the complex environmental challenges ahead.

• Learn from an expert teaching team who are active in their own field and maintain their professional skillset, ensuring you develop the most relevant skills for a career in the industry.

• Join a community that is working together to co-design new ways of thinking to redefine the future of creative practice.

• With an optional year-long work placement you can gain valuable experience to further enhance your practical and professional skills.

• The award-winning Vijay Patel Building provides both the space to foster creative thinking as well as top-class facilities, giving you access to a range of dedicated workshops and a host of specialist equipment.