| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-19 | - |
| 2024-01-09 | 2023-11-04 |
Program Overview
With a flexible curriculum to accommodate your creative ambitions, this course will prepare you to take a critical position to forge a successful career in the globalised creative world. The key business skills that you will gain - project management, marketing, website design, branding and business planning – make this course the ideal platform for creative entrepreneurs to launch their own design businesses and consultancies, or for those who hope to take up senior roles in design strategy or brand management. The course is designed for students with a good working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite applications, such as Photoshop, Acrobat and InDesign, and will develop these technical skills to an advanced level.
You will select a specialist area of study from diverse options, ranging from retail, museum and exhibition, and product design, to interior, footwear, visual communication, and design innovation. Learn to devise creative solutions to complex issues surrounding sustainability and explore the role of design and innovation as a driver for change.
The opportunity to work on live projects will enhance your professional portfolio, and you will complete an individual major project (either creative practice based or research focused) which runs throughout the course, drawing on the professional expertise and specialist knowledge of our academics.
Throughout the course we will empower you to experiment boldly and support you to take risks. You will be encouraged challenge conventions and develop innovative approaches to tackling contemporary design challenges, with the cutting-edge facilities for you to refine your talents and realise your creative visions.
Key features
Program Outline
Structure and assessment
Modules
Teaches you a range of conceptual and practical research skills, such as questionnaire design and interview techniques. As part of this module, you will formulate your major project proposal, specifying your aims, objectives, research methods and expected outcomes. You will also learn how to undertake the literature review for your major project.Design as a Strategic Business Tool focusses on how design itself can be the driving force behind the strategic management and development of design and creative businesses. As part of this module, you will audit the use of design, design management and design thinking in the creative industries and business. Looks at the need for critical appraisal of current digital media technologies. You will investigate related creative and management processes and production techniques in a professional context. Alongside live design projects, you will examine advances in technology, project management, digital design method theories, concept development, prototyping and production techniques as well as design and application testing.
Enables you to develop your major project design work while exploring creative and innovative design and research methods. You will produce a specification report (based on primary research) and a portfolio of investigative design development work that shows an individual creative response.
Provides a platform for designers from various fields to explore a range of technology and potentially help to advance their knowledge and practice in this area. This module recognises that digital technology and the development of new equipment, materials, artefacts and devices are all growing exponentially. Examines the key issues involved in developing new international markets and the role of the design manager and entrepreneur in enabling design and creative businesses to compete effectively in the global economy.
This module enables you to develop your major project to a further stage of design concept, supported by a report/dissertation of 15,000 words. This report is based on the literature research, primary market research, design development, marketing strategy and theory concepts developed through previous modules. The course culminates in a Dissertation; a research project allowing you to focus on a specific subject area of your choice often focused upon a topic associated with future career objectives. This is an opportunity to deepen your knowledge and understanding to demonstrate a critical understanding of your chosen area of investigation.
Modules
Term one core modules
Research Methods (Compulsory)
Teaches you a range of conceptual and practical research skills, such as questionnaire design and interview techniques. As part of this module, you will formulate your major project proposal, specifying your aims, objectives, research methods and expected outcomes. You will also learn how to undertake the literature review for your major project.
Creative Design Studio (Compulsory)
Introduces you to the overarching design process. You will study design method theories, advances in technology, concept development, prototyping techniques, design testing and user-centred (or inclusive) design. The module will see you developing project management skills and investigating ethical and environmental design issues. As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will also work on live design projects.
Term one optional modules (select two from the following options)
Design, Innovation and Sustainability
This module takes an integrated approach to the complex issues surrounding sustainability and the role of design and innovation as a driver for change.
Design as a Strategic Business Tool
Design as a Strategic Business Tool focusses on how design itself can be the driving force behind the strategic management and development of design and creative businesses. As part of this module, you will audit the use of design, design management and design thinking in the creative industries and business.
Creative Digital Media Design
Looks at the need for critical appraisal of current digital media technologies. You will investigate related creative and management processes and production techniques in a professional context. Alongside live design projects, you will examine advances in technology, project management, digital design method theories, concept development, prototyping and production techniques as well as design and application testing.
Term two core modules
Action Research Laboratory (Compulsory)
Enables you to develop your major project design work while exploring creative and innovative design and research methods. You will produce a specification report (based on primary research) and a portfolio of investigative design development work that shows an individual creative response.
Term two optional modules (select two from the following options)
Business Planning for the Creative Entrepreneur
Develops your business knowledge and planning skills enabling you to identify the potential for a new product or service. You will study the key issues in starting a business and covers topics such as business plans, leadership, investment and risk management.
Technology for Design
Provides a platform for designers from various fields to explore a range of technology and potentially help to advance their knowledge and practice in this area. This module recognises that digital technology and the development of new equipment, materials, artefacts and devices are all growing exponentially.
Museum and Exhibition Design
Examines innovative designs and strategies specifically for museums and exhibitions. It focuses on display, interpretation, conservation, marketing, management and funding, cultural identity, heritage, inclusive design, sustainability, education and audience.
Design for Retail
Covers all aspects of in-store retail design, including product, environment, technology, communication and service. You will also examine brand perception, buyer behaviour and engagement with the retail experience.
Service Design
Examines the role of design in the service industries. You will pay particular attention to ethical, political, social and ecological concerns, all of which require approaches that focus on design and the designers’ role in maintaining sustainability.
Global Markets: Designing businesses for international growth
Examines the key issues involved in developing new international markets and the role of the design manager and entrepreneur in enabling design and creative businesses to compete effectively in the global economy.
Term three – (select one from the following options)
Major Project: Artefact/Design Concept and In-depth Report
This module enables you to develop your major project to a further stage of design concept, supported by a report/dissertation of 15,000 words. This report is based on the literature research, primary market research, design development, marketing strategy and theory concepts developed through previous modules.
Major Project – Dissertation
The course culminates in a Dissertation; a research project allowing you to focus on a specific subject area of your choice often focused upon a topic associated with future career objectives. This is an opportunity to deepen your knowledge and understanding to demonstrate a critical understanding of your chosen area of investigation.
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.
Overview
You will benefit from visiting lecturers who specialise in exhibition design, museum curation, retail design, sustainable design, business planning and creative digital design. At the same time, a range of industry, museum, charity, and arts organisation representatives regularly present and coordinate live projects.
Contact hours
In your first two terms you will normally attend around 12 hours of timetabled taught sessions including lectures, tutorials and workshop and studio sessions each week, and be expected to undertake at least 23 hours of independent study each week. Your third term will be pre-dominantly self-directed (including meetings with your supervisor), during which you can expect to undertake 35 hours of independent study each week.
Art and design facilities
Our award-winning Vijay Patel building has been designed to provide the space and facilities where all of our art and design students can develop their ideas and flourish.
The creative industries require imaginative graduates who can develop new ideas and products. Students use our sophisticated and contemporary workshops, labs and studios to experiment and test in the same way they will in industry, while the open and transparent spaces in the building encourage collaboration between disciplines. In doing so, the building prepares students for industry and helps develop them as future leaders in their respective fields.
Take a look at our stunning showcase of the building at dmu.ac.uk/aad.
Library and learning zones
On campus, the main Kimberlin Library offers a space where you can work, study and access a vast range of print materials, with computer stations, laptops, plasma screens and assistive technology also available.
As well as providing a physical space in which to work, we offer online tools to support your studies, and our extensive online collection of resources accessible from our Library website, e-books, specialised databases and electronic journals and films which can be remotely accessed from anywhere you choose.
We will support you to confidently use a huge range of learning technologies, including Blackboard, Collaborate Ultra, DMU Replay, MS Teams, Turnitin and more. Alongside this, you can access LinkedIn Learning and learn how to use Microsoft 365, and study support software such as mind mapping and note-taking through our new Digital Student Skills Hub.
The library staff offer additional support to students, including help with academic writing, research strategies, literature searching, reference management and assistive technology. There is also a ‘Just Ask’ service for help and advice, live LibChat, online workshops, tutorials and drop-ins available from our Learning Services, and weekly library live chat sessions that give you the chance to ask the library teams for help.
More flexible ways to learn
We offer an equitable and inclusive approach to learning and teaching for all our students. Known as the Universal Design for Learning (UDL), our teaching approach has been recognised as sector leading. UDL means we offer a wide variety of support, facilities and technology to all students, including those with disabilities and specific learning differences.
Just one of the ways we do this is by using ‘DMU Replay’ – a technology providing all students with anytime access to audio and/or visual material of lectures. This means students can revise taught material in a way that suits them best, whether it's replaying a recording of a class or adapting written material shared in class using specialist software.
Placements
During this course you can choose to undertake a year-long work placement, an invaluable opportunity to put the skills developed during your degree into practice. This insight into the professional world will build on your knowledge in a real-world setting, preparing you to progress onto your chosen career. Placements will normally take place between semester two and three.
Our careers programme DMU Works can help to hone your professional skills with mock interviews and practice aptitude tests, and an assigned personal tutor will support you throughout your placement.
DMU Global
This is our innovative international experience programme which aims to enrich your studies and expand your cultural horizons – helping you to become a global graduate, equipped to meet the needs of employers across the world.
Through DMU Global, we offer a wide range of opportunities including on-campus and UK activities, overseas study, internships, faculty-led field trips and volunteering, as well as Erasmus+ and international exchanges.
Graduate careers
Many of our graduates go on to launch their own design businesses and consultancies, take up roles as creative designers, or progress on to senior roles in design strategy or brand management.
Recent graduates have landed successful roles such as:
Businesses started by DMU graduates include the Pooja Kapoor fashion brand, Whiteroom Media, Luidpro Design, and Cerebral Innovation.
The focus on research and developing your skills as an independent learner will also be an excellent stepping stone to study at PhD level.
De Montfort University
Overview:
De Montfort University (DMU) is a public university located in Leicester, UK. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, foundation, and distance learning courses. DMU is known for its focus on employability and its commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Services Offered:
Courses:
- DMU offers a diverse range of courses across various disciplines, including undergraduate, postgraduate, foundation, distance learning, post-registration healthcare courses, and courses starting in January.
Accommodation:
- The university provides a variety of accommodation options for students, including on-campus residences and private housing.
Campus Tours:
- Prospective students can take virtual or in-person tours of the campus to get a feel for the environment.
Employability:
- DMU has a dedicated Careers Team that provides support and guidance to students in their career development.
Fees and Funding:
- Information on tuition fees and funding options for both domestic and international students is available on the university website.
Student Support:
- DMU offers a comprehensive range of student support services, including academic advising, mental health support, and disability services.
PhD Research:
- The university has a Doctoral College that supports students pursuing PhD research degrees.
Study with a DMU Partner:
- DMU collaborates with partner institutions to offer joint programs and study abroad opportunities.
Information for Parents:
- The university provides resources and information specifically for parents of prospective students.
DMU Global:
- This program offers international students support and resources to help them adjust to life in the UK.
- Student Life and Campus Experience:
Campus:
- DMU has a modern and vibrant campus with a variety of facilities, including libraries, sports centers, and student unions.
Student City:
- Leicester is a multicultural and vibrant city with a thriving student population.
Open Days:
- Prospective students can attend open days to meet with academics, current students, and explore the campus.
Campus Tours:
- Virtual and in-person tours are available to help students get a feel for the campus environment.
Student Support:
- DMU provides a range of support services to help students succeed academically and personally.
DMUsport:
- The university offers a variety of sports and fitness activities for students.
DMU Careers Team:
- The Careers Team provides support and guidance to students in their career development.
Employability Focus:
- DMU is known for its strong focus on employability, with a dedicated Careers Team and a range of programs designed to prepare students for the workforce.
Supportive Learning Environment:
- The university provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment with a range of student support services.
Modern Campus:
- DMU has a modern and vibrant campus with a variety of facilities.
Vibrant Student City:
- Leicester is a multicultural and vibrant city with a thriving student population.
Research Success:
- DMU is recognized for its research excellence in various fields.
Academic Programs:
Undergraduate Courses:
- DMU offers a wide range of undergraduate courses across various disciplines, including business, law, engineering, and the arts.
Postgraduate Courses:
- The university also offers a variety of postgraduate courses, including master's degrees and PhD programs.
Foundation Courses:
- DMU provides foundation courses for students who need to improve their academic skills before starting a degree program.
Other:
Tef Silver:
- DMU has been awarded a silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), which recognizes its high-quality teaching and learning.
International Presence:
- DMU has campuses in Dubai and Kazakhstan, and it offers a range of programs for international students.
Research Excellence:
- DMU is recognized for its research excellence in various fields, including health, technology, and the arts.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
- While the context mentions some aspects of student life and campus experience, it does not provide a detailed description.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Studying at De Montfort University (DMU) offers several unique advantages for students. Here are some key reasons why many choose to study there:
1. Strong Employability Focus
- Work Placements and Internships: DMU has strong industry links and offers a range of placement opportunities across various fields. These placements help students gain real-world experience.
- DMU Works: This dedicated careers and employability service helps students find employment opportunities, develop CVs, and improve interview skills.
- High Graduate Employment Rates: DMU has a strong track record of graduates finding employment or pursuing further study shortly after graduation.
2. Diverse Course Offerings
- DMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in fields like business, arts, engineering, health, law, and more. It’s known for innovative programs and interdisciplinary approaches.
3. International Opportunities
- DMU Global: This program offers students opportunities to study or gain experience abroad, enhancing their global perspective and employability. DMU has links with institutions worldwide and organizes study trips to various countries.
4. Inclusive and Diverse Environment
- DMU is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, with students from various cultural backgrounds, making it a vibrant and supportive campus community. The university emphasizes a welcoming atmosphere for international students.
5. Excellent Campus Facilities
- DMU’s campus is modern, featuring state-of-the-art labs, workshops, and creative spaces. The Vijay Patel Building, for example, is renowned for its design and creative arts facilities.
- The Leisure Centre and Library offer high-quality resources for student well-being and study.
6. Innovative Research
- DMU is a research-focused institution, with particular strengths in areas like sustainability, health, creative industries, and technology. Students have the opportunity to work alongside academics on cutting-edge research projects.
7. Leicester – A Great Student City
- DMU is located in Leicester, a city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, affordable cost of living, and excellent student-friendly atmosphere. Leicester also has a vibrant arts and music scene, with plenty of social activities for students.
8. Commitment to Sustainability
- DMU is a leading university in sustainability, striving to make a positive environmental impact. It encourages students to engage in sustainable initiatives and research, making it a good choice for those passionate about green issues.
9. Supportive Learning Environment
- DMU offers a variety of student support services, including academic support, mental health counseling, and student advice. The university fosters a nurturing environment to help students thrive both academically and personally.
10. Creative and Cultural Hub
- The university has strong links with the creative industries, particularly in arts, fashion, media, and design. DMU organizes numerous cultural events, exhibitions, and showcases, allowing students to engage in creative practices and gain exposure.
- Together, these factors make De Montfort University an attractive destination for students looking for a well-rounded educational experience with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Entry criteria
Typical entry requirements
You should have the equivalent or above of a 2:2 UK bachelor’s honours degree in a design subject relevant to your proposed specialism or major project area.
If you have other professional qualifications and industry experience, we will consider your application on an individual basis.
Interview and Portfolio
Applicants with relevant qualifications should submit a portfolio of work (please see our Design Innovation MA application portfolio advice for full details).
Non-standard applicants will be invited to attend an interview with a portfolio and a 2,500-word report.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each band (or equivalent) when you start the course is essential.
English Language tuition, delivered by our British Council-accredited Centre for English Language Learning, is available both before and throughout the course if you need it.
