Design

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Design at the University of the West of England offers students a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience that prepares them for diverse careers in the creative industries. This programme is designed to foster innovative thinking, technical skills, and a strong conceptual understanding of design principles across multiple disciplines, including graphic design, product design, illustration, and digital media. Throughout the course, students engage with a broad range of design practices, combining traditional skills with cutting-edge digital technologies to develop versatile portfolios that reflect their unique creative identities.

The programme emphasizes a user-centered, problem-solving approach, encouraging students to develop designs that effectively communicate messages, enhance user experiences, and address real-world challenges. Students benefit from a blend of lectures, workshops, studio sessions, and industry-focused projects, providing opportunities for hands-on learning and critical evaluation. The collaborative environment nurtures teamwork and cross-disciplinary thinking, preparing graduates to work in multidisciplinary teams within the creative sector.

Students are supported by experienced academic staff and industry professionals who bring current industry standards and practices into the classroom. The curriculum encompasses core topics such as visual communication, branding, digital design, sustainable design practices, and professional development. Students also have the opportunity to specialise or explore areas of personal interest through optional modules and a final-year project that demonstrates their technical proficiency and conceptual originality.

The programme actively promotes industry engagement through guest lectures, internships, and live briefs, allowing students to build professional networks and gain valuable insight into the design industry. UWE's strategic location in Bristol, a vibrant hub for creative and digital industries, provides additional opportunities for networking, collaborations, and employment post-graduation. Graduates from the BA in Design programme are well-equipped to pursue careers as graphic designers, visual communication specialists, UX/UI designers, branding consultants, or further study to advance their expertise. With a strong emphasis on creative innovation and professional readiness, this programme aims to nurture the next generation of influential designers who can make impactful contributions to society and the economy.

The full Masters course comprises of 180 credits divided into three 60 credits stages: Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, and Masters. Students work incrementally through the three stages and must pass all modules at each stage in order to progress to the next.

Make (30 credits)

You will be encouraged to creatively engage with a broad range of materials, making and manufacturing processes. Though a series of short practical projects, you will be invited to challenge the nature, role and cultural value of different approaches to 'making' and 'manufacture' from new and emerging digital fabrication technologies to the contemporary application of craft.

Play (30 credits)

This module aims to reinvigorate a genuine sense of play into the creative enquiry and to build upon its potential for delivering innovation in design realisation. The emphasis of this module is on play, without the expectation that 'finished' work will be produced. You will explore and develop ideas for a project proposal which will form the basis of the final 'Live' module of the course. 

Research Practice (30 credits)

Primarily concerned with building academic skills, this module offers a series of choices, each of which has specific sets of concerns related to the practice and theory of art, media and design. These options are: Research by practice; Critical Research; and Research in Enterprise (in the Creative Industries).

Practice in a Professional Context (30 credits)

You will explore possibilities outside of the institution and participate in a placement, collaboration, research or work experience situation to gain knowledge and understanding of the professional arena. You will have the opportunity to negotiate your own programme of study, which explores and evaluates design within a professional context.

Live (60 credits)

This module is designed to facilitate the development and delivery of a major creative project that capitalises upon the previous four modules. Whether working in collaboration with an industry partner, via partnerships between students, or working individually, the development of design solutions will be for a 'live' outward facing event: the UWE Creative Industries Degree Show.

We are looking for highly-motivated, creative students from a range of academic and professional design backgrounds. Usually applicants will have a good honours degree in design or visual arts, but those other academic qualifications or professional experience are also encouraged to apply. Applications are welcome from prospective students with qualifications in such areas as product design, industrial design, interaction design, fashion and textiles, model-making, fine art and applied art. We also encourage applications from prospective students with academic or professional backgrounds in engineering and other technology-based disciplines, providing they can demonstrate a strong interest and aptitude in creativity and design.

Candidates are normally invited to an interview where they will be expected to present a portfolio of creative work and to discuss their previous experience, aims, motivations and ideas for projects they may wish to pursue within the context of the MA in Design. 

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of the West of England offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in its Design programmes. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various sources of funding to support their studies, including government-backed loans, scholarships, bursaries, and personal funding. For domestic students, UK government loans may be available to cover tuition fees and living costs, depending on the specific course and eligibility criteria. International students should investigate scholarship opportunities provided by the university, which recognize academic excellence, creative talent, or financial need, although funding for international students may be more limited compared to domestic students. The university also offers its own bursaries and hardship funds designed to assist students facing unexpected financial difficulties during their studies. Additionally, students are advised to explore external funding bodies, such as arts councils, cultural organizations, and private foundations, which sometimes provide grants or scholarships for design students. Part-time work opportunities on or near campus can also help students offset living expenses and gain practical experience relevant to their field. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on available funding options and application processes, helping students plan their finances effectively. It is recommended that students start exploring financing options early in their application process to ensure they meet all deadlines and criteria. Furthermore, students should consult the university’s official website and the student finance portal for the most up-to-date information regarding fees, scholarships, bursaries, and application procedures. The university maintains a transparent fee structure, with detailed breakdowns available for each programme and campus location, and provides support in understanding the financial commitments involved in studying design at UWE. Overall, UWE strives to make its Design programmes accessible to students from diverse financial backgrounds by offering multiple funding streams and support services, enabling students to focus on their creative development and academic success.

This program provides students with a comprehensive education in design, focusing on developing creative skills, technical proficiency, and theoretical understanding of design principles. Throughout the course, students engage in a variety of practical projects and theoretical studies that explore different aspects of design, including graphic, digital, product, and environmental design. The curriculum is designed to foster innovative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and professional skills necessary for a successful career in the highly competitive design industry. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated design studios, computer labs equipped with industry-standard software, and access to a wide range of resources and materials. The program emphasizes both individual creativity and collaborative work, preparing students to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and to communicate their ideas clearly to diverse audiences. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to experiment with new technologies, emerging trends, and sustainable design practices, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the field. The course often includes opportunities for real-world experience through placements, live briefs, and partnerships with industry organizations, providing valuable networking and professional development opportunities. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only highly skilled but also critically aware and socially responsible designers, capable of making a positive impact on society through their creative work. Graduates of this program often pursue careers in graphic design, user experience design, digital media, advertising, product development, and many other creative industries. The university supports student development through dedicated careers services, exhibitions, competitions, and workshops, fostering a dynamic environment where creativity and innovation can flourish. Overall, this program offers a rigorous, inspiring, and industry-relevant education for aspiring designers seeking to thrive in the evolving landscape of design and creative industries.