BA (Hons) in Retail Design

Program Overview

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The BA (Hons) Retail Design program provides a comprehensive education in retail design, focusing on the design process, branding, customer experience, merchandising, and sustainable technologies. Delivered online through a virtual learning studio, the program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application through projects and assignments, preparing students for successful careers in the retail design industry.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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BA (Hons) Retail Design

This program provides a comprehensive education in retail design, focusing on the design process, branding, customer experience, merchandising, and sustainable technologies. It is ideal for individuals with a passion for design and interest in the retail sector. The program is delivered online through the bespoke virtual learning studio (VLS), offering flexibility and convenience for students.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the knowledge and skills to design effective and engaging retail spaces.
• Foster creativity and innovation in retail design solutions.
• Prepare graduates for successful careers in the retail design industry.

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Description:

The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application through various projects and assignments. Students will learn about space planning, visual communication, branding, merchandising, sustainable design, professional practice, and major design projects. They will also have the opportunity to complete work experience and develop a portfolio showcasing their skills and expertise.

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Outline:

The BA (Hons) Retail Design program consists of eleven modules, covering various aspects of retail design. The modules include:

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Module 1: Research & Contextualisation

• Introduction to the world of interior design with a focus on leading residential and commercial designers.
• Research methods and skills for effective project development.
• Comprehensive understanding of design history and its application in present-day design.

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Module 2: Space Planning

• Principles of designing functional and efficient spaces for various residential and commercial interiors.
• Develop skills in space planning and design for different environments and needs.
• Importance of development work and concept generation in the design process.

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Module 3: The Customer Experience

• Exploring the relationship between retailers and customers.
• Understanding the impact of customer lifestyle on the retail experience.
• Concept development for a specific target market and space.
• Creating presentation boards, drawings, and rendered visuals for the design concept.

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Module 4: Branding

• Understanding the importance of branding in retail design.
• Exploring different branding strategies and their application in retail environments.
• Developing a brand for a specific business and its positioning in the market.

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Module 5: Visual Communication & Merchandising

• Understanding how visual communication and merchandising affect customer perception of products.
• Exploring various layout and circulation techniques for effective product display.
• Analyzing methods used by established brands in their retail environments.

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Module 6: Sustainable Design and Technology

• Importance of sustainable practices in modern design.
• Selection and application of sustainable products, materials, and technologies.
• Exploring the world of eco-friendly interior design and leading figures in the field.

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Module 7: Professional Practice

• Developing a personal design practice and marketing plan.
• Importance of branding for a design business.
• Gaining the skills and knowledge to work independently or within an existing practice.

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Module 8: Major Design Project

• Applying learned skills and knowledge to a comprehensive design project.
• Development and presentation of the project from concept to completion.
• Production of a diverse range of project materials for the portfolio.

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Module 9a (option): Exhibition Design

• Exploring the design approaches for commercial trade shows and gallery exhibitions.
• Understanding the visitor experience and the importance of branding.

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Module 9b (option): Retail Space in a Wider Context

• Designing retail spaces in diverse environments like hotels, museums, and airports.
• Adapting design considerations for smaller-scale retail environments.

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Module 10: Research Study

• Conducting research on a personally chosen design topic.
• Writing a dissertation under the guidance of a personal tutor.

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Module 11: Independent Study

• Building upon the research study topic and developing a design-based project.
• Culminating three years of study and showcasing acquired skills and expertise.

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Assessment:

The BA (Hons) Retail Design program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Tutor assessment of design projects and assignments.
• Design portfolio review by De Montfort University (DMU).
• No formal exams are conducted.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Online learning through the VLS platform.
• Access to instructional videos, images, quizzes, and lectures.
• Individualized feedback and support from personal tutors.

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Faculty:

• Experienced and qualified instructors in the field of retail design.
• Industry professionals with practical experience and knowledge.

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Unique Approaches:

• Flexible online learning environment for student convenience.
• Emphasis on project-based learning for practical application of knowledge.
• Opportunities for real-world experience through work placements.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Freelance retail designer
• Retail design practice employee
• Retail development company specialist
• Architectural practice retail specialist

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Career Opportunities:

• Work on diverse retail projects for various clients and businesses.
• Contribute to the development and success of retail brands.
• Design innovative and engaging retail spaces that enhance the customer experience.

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the competitive field of retail design.
• The program prepares students for various career paths in the industry.
• Graduates will be able to contribute effectively to the design and development of retail spaces.

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Other:

• The BA (Hons) Retail Design can be completed in three years, with the option for flexible study schedules.
• Students completing the program can progress to the online M.A Interior Design with a generous scholarship.
• The program is accredited by De Montfort University Leicester (DMU).

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UK Students

• Tuition Fee: £5,250 per year
• 3 ways to pay:
• UK Student Loan: Covers all tuition fees
• One Payment: £5,250 on enrolment
• 10 x Monthly Payments: £550 per month (total: £5,500)

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International Students

• Tuition Fee: $7,650 per year
• 2 ways to pay:
• One Payment: $7,650 on enrolment (save $600)
• 10 x Monthly Payments: $8,250 in total ($1,500 on enrolment + 9 x $750 monthly payments)
• Fee per level/year subject to change after 1st August each year.
• Monthly payments include admin fee.
• International fees are in US Dollars.