BDes Modules
U101 (Design thinking: creativity for the 21st century) – This module will change your way of seeing and solving complex problems – it looks at common principles of design and thinking that lead to creative ideas and solutions in all design disciplines. Through academic and practical work, you’ll develop an understanding of design, acquire new design skills, and build a portfolio of design projects as a strong foundation for future study or work experience. You’ll complete your practical activities and interact with tutors and other students in a specially created online design studio. Click here for more details on the module.
T190 (Design Practices) – This module provides a foundation in design practice by introducing topics from different creative and design disciplines. Each topic introduces design principles and practical skills that you’ll apply in a series of short design projects. Your tutor will support you throughout your project work, organising regular check-ins, discussion opportunities and project reviews. Your project work will contribute to your final design portfolio, a professional body of work that reflects your interests and your emerging design practice and identity. Check here for more information.
T217 (Design essentials)* – The world is full of designed objects, from skyscrapers to products that fit into the palm of your hand. Designers have used their skills to translate ideas and needs into all the manufactured things you see. In this module, you’ll learn about the essential skills and practices designers use to create detailed design solutions. You’ll develop your ability to identify design opportunities, meet potential users’ needs and create and communicate design solutions. The knowledge and skills you’ll gain are relevant in design domains and many industries. Click here for more details on the module.
T290 (Design Project) – A new module in development (launches 26J). This module is a design project that aims to help students develop their ability to apply design as an emancipatory and ecological creative practice in areas of their interest such as health and wellbeing, technological and digital innovation, social inclusion, built environment and environmental sustainability.
T317 (Innovation: designing for change)** – Innovations emerge from complex, dynamic, iterative processes. But how do designers, engineers, entrepreneurs, managers and users create opportunities and generate ideas for innovation? How are ideas developed into successful products, services and systems? This module uses contemporary case studies to explore such questions. It goes beyond innovation for commercial advantage – considering how innovation can contribute to developing a more sustainable future through responsible design. The module includes a design and innovation project where you’ll identify and research a problem and develop a solution. Click here for more details on the module.
T390 (Major Design project) – A new module in development (launches 28J). This modules offers you the opportunity to create and develop a design project of your selection, focusing on your design identity and area of interest. Alongside a major project, T390 will require evidence of critical learning and reflection in the form of a final dissertation-type outcome.
*/** New modules will update these existing modules in 2026 and 2028 respectively
Q61 Design and Innovation Modules
You will do three core 60 credit design modules (U101, T217, T317), one at each stage of study and 60 credits of another subject that you select at each stage. Your module and subject choice will determine whether you are studying for a BA or BSc classification.
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