MA Digital Media and Creative Industries
The MA Digital Media and Creative Industries at Loughborough University aims t...
BA (Hons) Design
Loughborough
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Design program at Loughborough University is a dynamic and innovative course that equips students with a solid foundation in design principles while allowing for creative expression and experimentation. This interdisciplinary program is designed to develop students into professional designers with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to excel in a variety of design fields, including product design, industrial design, graphic design, and digital media. The course combines academic learning with practical, hands-on experience, encouraging students to explore new materials, techniques, and technologies. With a strong emphasis on creativity, problem-solving, and user-centered design, the program prepares graduates for a range of design careers in industries such as automotive, consumer goods, fashion, and technology.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Design program at Loughborough University is structured to foster creativity and innovation while providing a comprehensive understanding of design practices. The first year focuses on building foundational skills in design thinking, sketching, prototyping, and visual communication. Students also learn about the design process, from research and ideation to development and presentation. In the second year, the program delves deeper into design principles, incorporating more advanced topics such as materials science, digital design, and design for sustainability. Students also begin to specialize in areas of interest, such as product design, branding, or interaction design. The final year offers opportunities for self-directed projects, where students can refine their skills and build a portfolio of work that showcases their individual design expertise. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of collaboration, with group projects and industry-led briefs providing valuable experience in working with others to solve real-world design challenges.
Research Focus: Loughborough University is known for its strong research output, particularly in the areas of design, engineering, and technology. The BA (Hons) Design program benefits from the university's focus on cutting-edge research and innovation. Students have the opportunity to engage with ongoing research in design thinking, sustainable design, user experience (UX), and the integration of digital technologies in design. The university is actively involved in interdisciplinary research, collaborating with industry partners to develop new products, technologies, and solutions to global challenges. Students can also participate in design-related research projects, gaining exposure to the latest trends and innovations in the field. Research activities at Loughborough University play a crucial role in shaping the curriculum, ensuring that students are learning the most up-to-date methods and approaches in design.
Industry Engagement: One of the key strengths of the BA (Hons) Design program at Loughborough University is its strong industry engagement. The university has established relationships with leading design companies, manufacturers, and organizations across various sectors. Students benefit from industry-led workshops, guest lectures from design professionals, and live project briefs, all of which help to bridge the gap between academia and the real world. The program includes opportunities for internships and placements, giving students hands-on experience working with design teams and clients. Industry collaborations also provide students with the chance to network with professionals in the field, helping them to build valuable connections that can lead to future career opportunities. These industry links ensure that students are prepared for the demands of the design industry and are well-equipped to transition into the workforce upon graduation.
Global Perspective: Loughborough University places a strong emphasis on providing a global perspective in its programs, and the BA (Hons) Design is no exception. The university attracts students from around the world, creating a diverse learning environment where students can collaborate with peers from different cultural and professional backgrounds. This international focus is particularly beneficial for design students, as it exposes them to a wide range of design philosophies, trends, and challenges faced by the global design community. The program also encourages students to think globally, considering how design can address global issues such as sustainability, accessibility, and social responsibility. Additionally, Loughborough University offers opportunities for students to participate in study exchanges and international internships, further enhancing their global outlook. By gaining exposure to different design practices and cultures, students are better prepared to work in an increasingly interconnected and globalized design industry.
Location
Loughborough
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 28600
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 75% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Loughborough University offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their education and make studying in the UK more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, financial need, and the potential for students to contribute to the university community.
International Excellence Awards: These are merit-based scholarships offered to international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These awards typically cover part of the tuition fees and are designed to attract outstanding students from around the globe.
Global Scholarships: Loughborough offers various global scholarships based on geographical location, supporting students from specific regions or countries with reduced tuition fees.
Loughborough University Elite Sports Scholarships: These are available for students who are competing at an elite level in their sport. The scholarship includes financial support, as well as access to the university's world-class sports facilities, coaching, and training programs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Loughborough University offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular countries. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate high academic potential and a commitment to contributing to their home country upon graduation.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Design program can pursue careers across a wide spectrum of industries, including product design, industrial design, graphic design, digital media, branding, and user experience (UX) design. With a comprehensive skill set that includes design thinking, prototyping, digital tools, and project management, Loughborough graduates are highly sought after by employers.
Product Designer: Product designers create innovative products that meet user needs and solve problems. Graduates can work in industries such as consumer electronics, home appliances, sports equipment, and automotive design. They will use their skills to create prototypes, refine designs, and consider functionality, ergonomics, and aesthetics. Product designers often work with cross-functional teams, including engineers and manufacturers, to bring their concepts to life.
Industrial Designer: Industrial designers focus on the design and development of mass-produced products, considering both the form and function of these items. They work in industries such as automotive, manufacturing, consumer goods, and technology. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Design program can work on designing products that are both visually appealing and practical for mass production, ensuring user satisfaction and market success.
Graphic Designer: Graphic designers create visual concepts that communicate ideas through digital and print media. They work in advertising, marketing, branding, and publishing, creating logos, brochures, websites, and advertisements. With strong technical skills in software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Loughborough graduates can apply their design knowledge to create compelling and effective visual communications for brands, businesses, and organizations.
User Experience (UX) Designer: UX designers focus on improving the usability and user experience of digital products, including websites, mobile apps, and software. Graduates with an interest in technology and design can work in the tech industry, conducting user research, creating wireframes and prototypes, and testing products to ensure that they are intuitive, accessible, and meet user needs. This career is highly in demand, as businesses prioritize creating seamless, user-friendly digital experiences.
Interaction Designer: Interaction designers work to improve the way users interact with digital interfaces. Their role includes designing intuitive user interfaces (UI) for websites, mobile apps, and interactive devices. Graduates can work in a variety of sectors, such as technology, healthcare, finance, and education, where digital experiences and interactions are crucial. The goal is to enhance the overall user experience by creating engaging, efficient, and accessible designs.
Fashion Designer: For students with a creative flair for fashion, the BA (Hons) Design program offers opportunities to develop skills for pursuing a career in fashion design. Fashion designers create clothing and accessories, considering aspects such as trends, materials, and functionality. Loughborough graduates can pursue careers in fashion houses, retail, and even launch their own design studios, creating collections that reflect their personal design aesthetic.
Design Consultant: Design consultants provide expert advice to businesses on how to improve their design processes, branding, and product offerings. They may work independently or with design consultancies, offering guidance on everything from product development to user experience. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Design program can use their broad skill set to analyze a company’s design challenges and offer tailored solutions to enhance its market presence and product offerings.
Interior Designer: Interior designers focus on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces for homes, offices, commercial properties, and public spaces. They work closely with clients to understand their needs and design spaces that meet both functional and visual requirements. Graduates with an interest in spatial design and architecture can pursue careers in interior design, working in a variety of sectors such as hospitality, retail, residential, and corporate interiors.
Design Manager: Design managers oversee the design process and coordinate teams of designers on projects. They ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the client’s specifications. Design managers work in a variety of industries, from product design to advertising, and are responsible for managing both creative and technical teams. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Design program can pursue leadership roles in design firms, manufacturing companies, and consultancy practices.
Branding and Marketing Designer: Branding and marketing designers specialize in creating visual identities for businesses, including logos, packaging, and promotional materials. They help companies build a strong brand presence and effectively communicate their values and messaging to customers. Graduates can work in marketing agencies, corporate branding departments, or as freelance designers, using their skills to create compelling visual strategies that enhance brand recognition.
