Digital Design (MSc)

Program Overview

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The MSc Digital Design program at the University of York equips students with critical design skills and theoretical expertise to address real-world challenges in diverse societal and industry contexts. Through hands-on experience with cutting-edge multimedia tools and technologies, students develop practical skills and foster theoretical understanding in digital design. The program emphasizes teamwork, project management, and communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in user experience, product development, research, and creative arts.

Program Outline

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MSc Digital Design at the University of York

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The MSc Digital Design program equips students with critical design skills and theoretical expertise to tackle real-world challenges across diverse societal and industry contexts.

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Objectives:

This program aims to:

• Encourage students to utilize digital design to address complex issues like climate change, inclusivity in cultural heritage, and mental health.
• Develop practical skills through using cutting-edge multimedia tools and technologies, including graphic design, AI, 3D modeling, and printing.
• Foster theoretical understanding and research approaches in the field of digital design.
• Enhance teamwork, project management, and communication skills.
• Provide opportunities to collaborate with external partners on projects and build a strong portfolio.
• Prepare graduates for careers in user experience, product development, research, creative arts, and design across various sectors.

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Outline:

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Duration:

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

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Credits:

180 credits

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Structure:

• Semester 1: Two core modules and one option module
• Semester 2: One core module and two option modules
• Summer Semester: 60-credit independent design project

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Core Modules:

• Design Methods
• Digital Design Skills
• Research Through Design

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Option Modules:

(Examples)

• Advanced Interaction Techniques & Technologies
• Community Music in Principle
• Digital Culture: Key Concepts
• Digital Life and Objects
• Experience Evaluation
• Gaming: Industry and Culture
• Introduction to AI Techniques in Creative Practice
• Leading in the Creative and Cultural Industries
• Speculative Design

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Additional Information:

• Module offerings may change based on academic updates and staff expertise.

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Assessment:

• Assessment methods: Design artifacts, prototypes, reports, essays, presentations.
• Assessment criteria: Quality of design work, critical thinking, research skills, communication effectiveness.
• Module options enable selection of assessment methods that align with individual interests.

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Teaching:

• Teaching format: Lectures, design workshops, technical practicals, individual and group tutorials, masterclasses with visiting professionals.
• Focus on real-world projects: Collaboration with external partners, opportunities to work with local communities and clients.
• Building a portfolio: Module assessments contribute to the development of a professional portfolio.
• Individual support: Personal academic supervisor, additional supervisor for independent project.

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Careers:

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Potential career paths:

• User Experience Designer
• Service Designer
• Engagement manager
• Digital content producer
• Digital data manager
• User Researcher
• Digital marketing
• Social media manager
• Immersive experience designer/developer
• Civil Service Fast Stream
• Government and third sector research and policy roles
• Further study with a PhD

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Transferable skills developed:

• Critical analysis, thinking, and evaluation
• Digital research and methodologies
• Project design, planning, and management
• Investigative research
• Collaborative working
• Intellectual independence and independent working
• Communication skills
• Time management and people skills

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Other:

• Excellent facilities: Dedicated teaching and study design studio, post-production suites, interactive media labs, computer labs for specialized media processing software.
• York as a UNESCO City of Media Arts: A creative hub with diverse talent, driving force for social innovation and inclusivity.
• Distinguished faculty: Researchers, dynamic teachers, professionals with extensive industry networks.
• Industry collaborations: Masterclasses with professionals, opportunities to gain real-world experience.
For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official University of York website.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Annual tuition fees for 2024/25 Study modeUK (home)International and EU Full-time (1 year) £10,590£23,900