COURSE CURRICULUM

The Design and Branding Strategy MA at Brunel University provides a comprehensive exploration of how design and branding intersect to influence organisational performance and innovation. The Branding Strategy Studies module develops a creative, strategic approach to branding, examining its evolving role in society, its relationship with design management, and contemporary branding concepts across industries. The Design Research module equips students with advanced skills to investigate, formulate, and specify focused projects, critically evaluating the relationship between design, branding, creativity, and innovation using both classic and contemporary research. Students also undertake a Design and Branding Research Project, enabling them to conduct a thorough investigation into the effectiveness of design management and branding within selected organisations, analyse challenges, and provide recommendations for future strategies. Innovation Strategy and Management focuses on the drivers of creativity and innovation, exploring the strategic role of design within changing business models, creative industries, and start-ups, while comparing its impact across various institutional contexts. The dissertation allows students to apply research insights to a current design management question, demonstrating advanced use of conceptual tools, critical evaluation, and the ability to communicate findings professionally. Together, these modules integrate practical research, strategic thinking, and industry engagement, preparing graduates to lead and innovate in branding, design management, and creative business contexts.