Program start date | Application deadline |
2023-09-19 | - |
2024-01-09 | 2023-11-04 |
2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Through a focus on research, sustainability, and technology, the program prepares graduates for careers in interior design, UX/UI design, and related fields. Students benefit from access to award-winning design facilities and support from industry professionals.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
The Interior Design MA course aims to empower you to rethink existing interior design norms, challenge conventional approaches, and forge a unique path in the interior design field. The course delves into the integration of spaces, be it the old with the new, the digital with the physical, technology with nature, or communities with their surroundings. The program focuses on developing, researching, and practicing design thinking at an advanced level, integrating robust research methods into the creative process. You'll be encouraged to adopt sustainable design principles and broaden your understanding of professional and commercial practices by assessing the practical feasibility of your design proposals.
Outline
The "Interior Design MA" course comprises the following modules:
Block 1: Creative Interior Design Studio
- Focuses on how research informs design through a contemporary design project.
- Emphasizes quality secondary research from diverse sources to develop a cohesive understanding of the focus area and construct a valuable "design insight."
- Introduces sustainability principles, including circular economy, resource use, lifecycle analysis, sustainable material selection, and ethical production.
- Requires you to develop a design concept proposal for future larger-scale projects.
Block 2: Research and Design Methodology
- Engages you with current design research, professional practices, and advanced scholarship.
- Equips you to form independent judgments, conduct research, and communicate findings effectively to diverse audiences.
- Covers topics such as research design, data gathering, analysis, and ethical considerations.
Block 3: Choose one from the following:
Narrative Spaces:
- Explores how spaces can tell stories, analyzing the interplay between objects, space, stories, and emotional connections.
- Extends the interpretation of "space" beyond the physical and explores digital platforms' role in enhancing the built environment experience.
- Focuses on how modern retail environments and museum/exhibition design utilize a combination of spaces and experiences to convey a story.
- Requires you to create a group design project with flexibility to propose a multi-layered design concept.
Technology for Design:
- Explores the growing influence of technology in design and manufacturing techniques.
- Provides a platform to investigate various technologies, including CAD, visualization, prototyping, digital manufacturing, and new equipment/material development.
UX and UI:
- Prepares you for a career in UX/UI design by equipping you with the skills to design user interfaces that improve user experiences using industry tools and techniques.
- Provides you with support to conduct rigorous, strategic, and valuable primary research requiring ethical approval.
- Emphasizes the "viability" of your design proposal by adopting a business perspective.
- Requires you to develop a marketing strategy for a design, service, or experience that positions it against its competitors, defines the target market, and outlines a broad corporate strategy for delivering the value offering.
- Involves developing and presenting a "design framework" and conclusions from your research analysis for further development in the final module.
Blocks 5 & 6: Choose one from the following:
Major Design Project:
- Guides you in demonstrating your understanding of research techniques and scholarship through the completion of the project you have defined in earlier modules.
- Requires you to demonstrate initiative, ingenuity, independent decision-making, and planning skills in completing tasks at a professional level.
- Offers you a choice to focus primarily on design practice supported by a critical evaluation or on the critical evaluation supported by a condensed design practice, aligned with your career aspirations.
Work-based Project
- Offers an opportunity to apply and showcase the skills you've acquired throughout the course in a practical setting, such as working with a design company on an innovative project.
- Requires you to integrate all course aspects, from research methods to specific modules, into a project with practical applications.
- Involves supervision from both the host organization and the university, with negotiated outcomes that may include a combination of research reports, design concepts, and/or prototypes.
Assessment:
- Assessment methods include individual and group projects, presentations, report writing, poster development, reflective practice, and design proposals.
Teaching:
- Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, workshops, studios, and tutorials.
- Studio culture is emphasized, and you will work in a multidisciplinary environment alongside design students from various specializations.
Careers:
- The course prepares you for exciting careers designing interiors for retail, public spaces, museums, and more, with previous students employed by leading companies like Conran Design and Foster + Partners.
Other:
- The program emphasizes the importance of sustainability, ethical design practices, and user experience.
- The course provides you with access to DMU's award-winning design facilities, including workshops, labs, and studios.
- You will also benefit from the support of DMU's renowned library and learning resources, including the Kimberlin Library and online resources.
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 Requirements:
Typical Entry Requirements:
- A UK Bachelor's honors degree with a minimum 2:2 classification in Interior Design or a related subject.
- Other professional qualifications and industry experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Interview and Portfolio:
- Applicants with relevant qualifications must submit a portfolio of work.
- Non-standard applicants will be invited to an interview with a portfolio.
English Language Requirements:
- For non-native English speakers, an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each band is required when starting the course.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
English Language Requirements:
- For non-native English speakers, an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each band is required when starting the course.