MFA Design (Packaging)

Course summary

Join an interdisciplinary design programme which promotes social and cultural innovation.
Develop your specialist skills and knowledge in a collaborative studio environment.
Innovate with materials, technology and conceptual thinking.
Extend existing material practices in response to the needs of our rapidly changing world.

Placing emphasis on personal research, this course gives you the chance to develop your own interests and ideas in a challenging and supportive environment. Our academic staff are design specialists, researchers and practitioners who will support you to expand your practice and develop an independent, autonomous approach.

How you learn

The initial modules are taught to all postgraduate design students. You'll focus on gaining a critical understanding of design thinking, theoretical studies, research methods and making practices. In subsequent modules, you will follow your own personal practice, supported by key specialist staff. You are encouraged to consider social and cultural contexts when positioning your creative output. The aim is to develop accessible and marketable products, services, interventions and other forms or propositions.

You learn through

• immersive learning alongside peers in a studio environment
• practice-based research
• project work
• individual and group tutorials
• lectures
• seminars
• constructive critical debates

Future careers

This course prepares you for a career as a

• design
• design management
• maker or manufacturer
• company-employed designer
• independent design practitioner
• postgraduate student at PhD level
• education
• retail/marketing
• design research
• academic

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for international design companies and consultancies and have gained PhD scholarships.

Normally you need to have a 2.2 degree or equivalent in an appropriate subject or significant relevant experience; appropriate study plans, including an indication of possible project topics and clear, appropriate and realistic learning aims; a high level of creative ability, as evidenced by a portfolio of work; ability to discuss design issues critically and confidently.