Design Management - MA

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The course is committed to the selection of enthusiastic and ambitious applicants. The course attracts designers with an interest in developing their business and management skills, and non-designers with an interest in working within design.

Applicants are expected to have:

• Either a first or second class honours degree in a related subject, or, equivalent qualifications / experience.
• A background or proven interest in design or design management.
• International applicants should note that this is a demanding course that requires a high standard of reading, writing and listening skills so a minimum of IELTS 6.5 is required.

Research Methods – 15 Credits
The first module taken by all student is designed to prepare you for the academic requirements of Master’s level study of design management whilst developing research skills of direct relevance to design management practice.

Professional Development – 15 Credits
This module is designed to ensure students fully exploit the opportunities provided by the master’s programme and maximise their future opportunities. This will involve students learning about themselves, personal goal setting, identifying what knowledge and skills they need to achieve their career goals and planning how they will use the course to acquire these.

Business Perspectives – 15 Credits
This module is designed to help students gain insight into the context that businesses and organisations operate in, business and market research, consumer insights; how businesses view and use design, and their relationship with designers

Design and Innovation Strategy – 15 Credits 
Design and Innovative Strategy examines the roles of design and innovation and how it helps businesses and organisations achieve their objectives.  The module aims to bring together the languages of design and business, how design and innovation deliver value and return on investment (ROI) in design can be evaluated.

Design Practice – 15 Credits
This module explore the professional practice aspects of design including business planning, entrepreneurship, design and innovation processes, project management, sustainability, intellectual property and finance.

Leadership Project – 15 Credits
The Team Project provides the opportunity for students to explore interpersonal skills and gain insight into team working, leadership and how to get the best out of individuals working around design, skills essential to a successful career in design.

Placement / Case Study – 30 Credits
This module is designed to develop independent study skills and involves students in the research of a design related topic / question of their choice.  Students conduct both secondary and primary research and explore the relationship between these.  Students have the opportunity to conduct their research whilst taking part in a placement or on a case study basis.

Major Project / Dissertation – 60 Credits
The Master’s stage is the final part of the MA and is dedicated to the Dissertation, where students conduct a major piece of work in their chosen area of specialisation. The subject of the dissertation is decided by the student, with guidance from their supervisor, and can be based on any subject related to the management of design. Student are encouraged to choose a subject that will contribute directly to their career goals.