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Accessibility statement
An image to illustrate the Design research area
Design research at the Open University takes a distinctive stance, looking at design processes, methods and practices within and across disciplines and sectors and exploring how they can be developed, reframed and used to effect technological, social and environmental change. We work in a variety of challenges and contexts, including product design and manufacturing, fashion, urban and built environment, participatory design, sustainability, innovation,  regenerative design, design education and systemic change. Our teaching and research are mutually reinforcing.
The OU Design Group is recognised for its internationally excellent research and has been consistently highly ranked across all research assessment exercises, both for the quality of outputs and its impact.
We welcome applicants from all walks of life who wish to build on their own interests, experiences and aspirations and to advance the role of design in understanding and dealing with complex challenges to benefit people, places and the planet.
We offer the option for part-time and full-time study as well as a distance learning PhD. Our research is clustered around several themes that broadly capture our areas of expertise. We recommended that you explore the topics within each theme and get in touch with academics to discuss your topic and fit:
Our research intersects with science and technology, arts and humanities, and social sciences, so students may be eligible for funding from different research councils.
Most of our full-time research students are based at our campus in Milton Keynes UK, with part-time students generally working remotely. For details of residence requirements for different modes of study see Full-time study and Part-time study.
The group has design prototyping facilities, STEM laboratories and digital design studio technologies:
Explore specific areas of research, current and prospective projects, entry requirements, fees and funding, available supervisors, how to apply and contact details for advice.
Collaborative design
Design education
Design processes for complex engineering products
Socio-technical complexity
Sustainable design and innovation
Consider linked topics from other research areas.
Built environment
Engineering design
Interaction design