
The Glasgow School of Art

Glasgow City
,United Kingdom

Program Name
Mdes in Design Innovation and Interaction Design
Overview

The Master of Design Innovation and Interaction Design at The Glasgow School of Art is a premier program tailored for those eager to explore the complexities and nuances of design in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. This course, which spans over 12 months, immerses students in an interdisciplinary framework that merges design principles with innovative interaction strategies, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive design environment. The program is globally recognized for its robust curriculum, which emphasizes practical application and theoretical understanding, thus ensuring that graduates are not only adept designers but also critical thinkers capable of addressing real-world challenges.
The curriculum of the MDes in Design Innovation and Interaction Design comprises a blend of core modules and elective courses. Core subjects include Interaction Design Fundamentals, User Experience Design, and Advanced Prototyping Techniques, which provide a strong foundation in both the technical and conceptual aspects of design. Students will also engage in project-based learning, enabling them to tackle live briefs from industry partners. This hands-on approach ensures that graduates leave the program with a portfolio that showcases their skills and creativity, making them highly attractive to potential employers.
Additionally, students will have opportunities to specialize in niche areas such as Human-Centered Design, Design for Social Innovation, and Digital Fabrication. These electives allow students to tailor their degree to fit their career aspirations and personal interests, ensuring a rounded educational experience. The program also emphasizes the importance of research, and students will have access to a wealth of resources, including state-of-the-art laboratories, design studios, and collaborative workspaces that foster innovation and creativity.
The faculty at The Glasgow School of Art is comprised of accomplished professionals and academics who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the classroom. Many faculty members are actively engaged in cutting-edge research and industry projects, allowing them to provide students with insights into the latest trends and practices in design. The teaching methodology is highly interactive, encouraging students to participate actively in discussions and group projects. This approach not only enhances learning outcomes but also fosters a collaborative spirit among students, preparing them for the teamwork dynamic that is prevalent in many design-related careers.
An integral aspect of the MDes program is the emphasis on research opportunities. The Glasgow School of Art supports students in conducting in-depth research, with access to various resources and facilities. Collaborative projects with local businesses and community organizations are encouraged, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world contexts. This not only enhances their research capabilities but also helps in building valuable industry connections that can be beneficial in their future careers.
In terms of career pathways, graduates of the MDes in Design Innovation and Interaction Design have a multitude of options available to them. The program prepares students for roles such as Interaction Designer, UX Designer, Product Designer, and Design Researcher, among others. The high employability rate of graduates speaks volumes about the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce. Alumni have gone on to work with leading design firms, tech companies, and start-ups, often taking on leadership roles that allow them to shape the future of design.
Moreover, the program boasts strong industry connections and internship possibilities. The Glasgow School of Art has established partnerships with numerous organizations, providing students with access to internships that are invaluable for gaining practical experience while studying. These internships often lead to job offers post-graduation, further enhancing the program's reputation for producing job-ready graduates.
Alumni success stories are a testament to the quality of the MDes program. Many former students have launched their own design studios, received design awards, and contributed to significant projects in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and sustainability. Their journeys serve as inspiration for current students, demonstrating the vast potential that lies ahead upon graduation.
Unique features of the MDes program include the opportunity to participate in international design competitions and workshops, which provide students with further exposure to global design practices. The program also encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, allowing students from different design backgrounds to work together on projects, fostering innovation and creativity.
For prospective students considering the MDes in Design Innovation and Interaction Design, certain requirements and prerequisites must be met. Applicants are typically expected to possess a relevant undergraduate degree, such as in Design, Fine Arts, or a related field. A strong portfolio showcasing previous design work is also required, along with a personal statement detailing the applicant's motivation and goals. Additionally, while standardized test scores are not always mandatory, they may enhance an application, especially for international students.
In summary, the MDes in Design Innovation and Interaction Design at The Glasgow School of Art offers a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience. With its strong focus on innovation, research, and industry connections, this program is an excellent choice for those aspiring to make a significant impact in the field of design.
Why Study Design Innovation and Interaction Design at The Glasgow School of Art?
- A globally recognized program with a strong emphasis on practical learning and real-world applications.
- Excellent faculty comprised of industry professionals who bring current insights and experiences into the classroom.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories that encourage innovative design practices.
- Extensive internship and networking opportunities with leading design firms and organizations.
- A diverse and vibrant community that enhances the learning experience through collaboration and cultural exchange.
- Strong alumni network that provides mentorship and job opportunities in various sectors.

Duration
12 Months
Class Profile
Diversity
Others:
5%Northern Ireland:
5%Wales:
10%England:
25%Scotland:
50%FAQs
- Admissions Requirements:
To be considered for the MDes in Design Innovation and Interaction Design at The Glasgow School of Art, applicants should meet the following requirements:
- A relevant undergraduate degree, such as in Design, Fine Arts, or a related field.
- A strong portfolio showcasing previous design work.
- A personal statement detailing the applicant's motivation and career goals.
- While standardized test scores are not always mandatory, they may enhance an application, especially for international students.
- Program Structure:
The MDes in Design Innovation and Interaction Design spans over 12 months and comprises a blend of core modules and elective courses. Key components of the program include:
- Core modules such as Interaction Design Fundamentals, User Experience Design, and Advanced Prototyping Techniques.
- Project-based learning with live briefs from industry partners.
- Opportunities to specialize in areas like Human-Centered Design, Design for Social Innovation, and Digital Fabrication.
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratories, design studios, and collaborative workspaces.
- Teaching Methods:
The MDes program employs a highly interactive teaching methodology, which includes:
- Active participation in discussions and group projects.
- Hands-on learning through project-based activities.
- Insights from accomplished faculty who are engaged in cutting-edge research and industry projects.
This collaborative approach enhances learning outcomes and prepares students for teamwork dynamics prevalent in design-related careers.
- Career Prospects:
Graduates of the MDes in Design Innovation and Interaction Design have a wealth of career options available to them. Possible roles include:
- Interaction Designer
- UX Designer
- Product Designer
- Design Researcher
The program boasts a high employability rate, with alumni successfully securing positions in leading design firms, tech companies, and start-ups, often in leadership roles.
- Unique Features:
The MDes program at The Glasgow School of Art includes several unique aspects:
- Participation in international design competitions and workshops for global exposure.
- Encouragement of cross-disciplinary collaboration among students from different design backgrounds.
- Emphasis on research opportunities with access to various resources and facilities.
- Research Opportunities:
The MDes program encourages students to engage in in-depth research by providing:
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories.
- Opportunities for collaborative projects with local businesses and community organizations.
- Support in applying academic learning to real-world contexts, enhancing research capabilities and industry connections.
- Internships and Industry Connections:
The Glasgow School of Art has established strong partnerships with numerous organizations, offering students:
- Access to valuable internships while studying.
- Networking opportunities with leading design firms and organizations.
These internships often lead to job offers post-graduation, further enhancing the program's reputation for producing job-ready graduates.
- Alumni Network:
The MDes program boasts a strong alumni network that provides:
- Mentorship opportunities for current students.
- Job opportunities in various sectors.
Many alumni have launched their own design studios, received design awards, and made significant contributions to various fields, inspiring current students with their success stories.
- Key Highlights:
Studying at The Glasgow School of Art offers numerous advantages, including:
- A globally recognized program emphasizing practical learning and real-world applications.
- Access to excellent faculty with industry experience.
- State-of-the-art facilities that foster innovative design practices.
- A diverse and vibrant community enhancing collaborative and cultural exchange.
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