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Design courses

If you’re interested in the process and application of design and innovation in the real-world, our design courses could be for you. The Open University’s design courses will develop your creative design thinking and practical work to address problems in all aspects of life. Find out more about OU design qualifications below.

Design student pinning up fashion sketches

DesignDegrees 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Stage 3120 credits
Total of 360 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 6 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 3 years


DesignDiplomas 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Total of 240 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 4 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 2 years


DesignCertificates 

Stage 1120 credits
Total of 120 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 2 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 1 year

Why study Design with The Open University?

In studying our design modules, your learning would feature online design studios, social networking and inspiring study materials alongside a significant practical component. As well as studying design, you’ll normally study a complementary subject alongside.

The benefits of studying a design qualification with us are:

  • You don’t need a portfolio or grades to start a design course with us
  • Our degrees are professionally recognised.
  • You can learn about several different design specialisms.
  • You can combine your study of design with other subjects to fit your needs or interests.

Careers in Design

Design and innovation play a central role in society, producing solutions to problems in every aspect of our lives, not just in the creative industries. A design and innovation approach can bring value to almost any activity. As an OU student, you can put your learning into practice as you study.

Our courses in design can help you start or progress your career in:

  • Product design
  • Design consultancy
  • Design research, development and facilitation
  • Innovation strategy and user experience design
  • Technical journalism

Looking for something other than a qualification?

The majority of our modules can be studied by themselves, on a stand-alone basis. If you later choose to work towards a qualification, you may be able to count your study towards it.

See our full list of Design modules

All Design courses

Browse all the Design courses we offer – certificates, diplomas and degrees.

See our full list of Design courses