BSc Acoustics and Music Technology
The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the United Kingdom, offers a ...
MA (eca) Design for Change
Central Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA (ECA) Design for Change is an innovative program that encourages students to explore the intersections of design, creativity, and social impact. Focused on the idea that design has the power to create positive change, the program enables students to work on real-world projects that address social issues such as climate change, inequality, and access to education. Throughout the course, students are guided to think critically about how design solutions can respond to these challenges while considering sustainability and ethical responsibility. By collaborating with diverse stakeholders, students develop an understanding of the societal, environmental, and cultural contexts in which they work. The program prepares graduates to become leaders in the field of socially-conscious design and to initiate change through both practical and theoretical approaches.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA (ECA) Design for Change is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of both the theory and practice of socially responsible design. Core modules include subjects such as design thinking, sustainable design, social innovation, and human-centered design. Students will also engage in hands-on learning through collaborative projects, allowing them to apply design methodologies to real-world challenges. The program covers various design disciplines, including graphic design, product design, digital design, and service design, enabling students to develop a versatile skill set. Additionally, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary work, with opportunities for students to collaborate with other fields such as business, technology, and social sciences. Students will also be encouraged to engage in research, building a comprehensive understanding of how design can create lasting social impact.
Research Focus: The University of Edinburgh has a strong research focus on the intersection of design, sustainability, and social change, and students in the MA (ECA) Design for Change program will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research in these areas. Research themes include sustainable design practices, social innovation, participatory design, and design for social impact. Students will be encouraged to undertake independent research projects, exploring how design can address pressing global issues like climate change, migration, and inequality. The university’s research community provides a rich environment for collaboration, where students can draw on the expertise of faculty members and participate in initiatives that drive social and environmental change. This research focus ensures that students are equipped with the latest methodologies and insights in socially-conscious design practices.
Industry Engagement: The MA (ECA) Design for Change program is closely connected to both industry and the community, ensuring students have ample opportunities for real-world experience and professional networking. The University of Edinburgh maintains strong links with design studios, social enterprises, and non-profit organizations, providing students with access to collaborative projects, internships, and placements. Through these partnerships, students work directly with industry leaders and community stakeholders, gaining practical experience while contributing to impactful design solutions. The program also features guest lectures, workshops, and seminars led by professionals in the design, sustainability, and social innovation sectors. This industry engagement ensures that students are prepared to enter the workforce with the skills and connections necessary for creating positive change in the world through design.
Global Perspective: The MA (ECA) Design for Change program offers a global perspective on design, recognizing the interconnectedness of social, environmental, and economic issues across the world. Students will engage with case studies and design challenges from a range of international contexts, allowing them to understand how design can address global issues such as climate change, poverty, and migration. The program also attracts students from around the world, creating a diverse and multicultural learning environment where ideas and perspectives from different countries and cultures are shared. This global perspective ensures that graduates are equipped to work on international projects and contribute to the development of global solutions for social and environmental challenges.
Location
Central Campus
Score
IELTS: 7
Tuition Fee
£ 29900
Postgraduate entry requirements:
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Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.
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English Language Proficiency:
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).
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PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement.
Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.
School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.
Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.
External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.
Graduating with an MA (eca) Design for Change from the University of Edinburgh positions students at the forefront of the design industry, equipped with the skills to drive social, environmental, and economic change. This innovative program fosters a deep understanding of how design can be leveraged to address global challenges, opening up a range of impactful career opportunities.
Design Consultant: Graduates can work as design consultants, advising organizations on how to incorporate sustainable and ethical design practices into their products, services, and strategies. They help businesses develop design solutions that align with their values and goals for social responsibility.
Sustainable Product Designer: Many graduates find roles as sustainable product designers, creating eco-friendly and socially responsible products. They work in various industries, including consumer goods, fashion, and technology, developing innovative products that reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
Community-Based Designer: Graduates may engage in community-based design projects, collaborating with non-profits, local governments, and community groups to address specific local issues. They apply participatory design methods to co-create solutions that are culturally and contextually relevant.
Policy Advisor or Researcher: With their strong foundation in critical theory and research, graduates can work as policy advisors or researchers, influencing public policy related to design, sustainability, and social justice. They conduct research, provide insights, and advocate for policies that promote equitable and sustainable design practices.
Urban and Environmental Planner: Graduates can pursue careers in urban and environmental planning, using their design skills to develop sustainable cities and communities. They work on projects that address urbanization challenges, improve public spaces, and enhance environmental resilience.
Social Innovator or Entrepreneur: Some graduates may choose to start their own ventures or join social enterprises focused on creating innovative solutions for social problems. They leverage design thinking to develop new products, services, or business models that drive positive change.
Academic and Educator: The program also prepares graduates for academic careers, enabling them to pursue teaching and research positions in universities or research institutes. They can contribute to the academic discourse on design for change and mentor the next generation of designers.
Creative Director: With their broad skill set, graduates can advance to creative director roles within design firms, non-profits, or corporate social responsibility departments. They lead teams in developing and implementing design strategies that align with an organization’s mission for social impact.
Exhibition and Experience Designer: Graduates can work as exhibition and experience designers, creating interactive and educational spaces that raise awareness about social and environmental issues. They work in museums, galleries, or as independent designers for special events and campaigns.
Design Strategist: As design strategists, graduates help organizations understand and solve complex problems through design thinking. They conduct research, facilitate workshops, and develop strategic plans that incorporate design as a core component of innovation and change.
