COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Design at RMIT is a research-driven postgraduate program structured around coursework and a major supervised research project or thesis. In the initial stage of the program, students are required to complete a core preparatory subject, “Doing Research for Design and Social Context,” which introduces essential research frameworks, methodologies, and academic practices relevant to design and social inquiry. During their candidature, students may also undertake up to two additional coursework subjects in consultation with their supervisory team, depending on their research direction. These electives may include areas such as “Research for Impact in Design and Social Context,” creative practice research, qualitative or quantitative research methods, and critical and social theory, allowing students to strengthen both conceptual and methodological skills. Students may also take up to 12 credit points of approved university research electives to further support their specialised study. The core of the degree consists of a substantial Masters Research component, completed through staged enrolment in 48, 36, 24, or 12 credit point units, depending on progress and study load. This research project allows students to explore complex design problems in depth and produce original outcomes. Throughout the program, students develop advanced research capabilities, critical thinking, and creative practice skills, enabling them to contribute new knowledge to design disciplines and engage with professional and academic communities at a high level.