Course summary

The MDes in Design Innovation & Circular Economy focuses on the social value of circular economy design, as well as its economic importance. It is about addressing real problems that affect real people, by understanding them from each stakeholder’s point of view. It has an international perspective, and a local focus, utilising and developing the rich natural and economic resource of the Scottish Highlands and the broader geographical area around our Highlands campus, where this programme is based. In addition, our Highlands campus has a permaculture garden, and is also currently host to specialisms in environmental design, interaction design, and future heritage, each of which offers opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and practice. . Taught at The Glasgow School of Art’s Highlands Campus, the programme provides opportunities to explore new forms of design in relation to public participation, social and technological innovation and policy-making. The course also provides an opportunity to share knowledge and methods with students from prestigious international universities as part of the annual Winter School. This seasonal event brings together students and faculty from leading institutions around the world for a two-week programme of lectures, workshops and networking opportunities that offers an insight into what a career in design as a global activity looks like.