COURSE CURRICULUM

The MRes Design program is structured to provide students with a comprehensive framework for conducting independent, in-depth research within design disciplines. The core of the program is the MRes Dissertation, a 90-credit project that allows students to explore a specialised area of design through either an extended written dissertation or a combination of practical work with accompanying critical analysis. To support the development and execution of this project, students undertake three 30-credit modules: Research Development, Research Methods, and Critical Contexts. The Research Development module equips students with the skills to plan, manage, and develop their research proposals effectively, fostering independent thinking and project management abilities. The Research Methods module provides practical and theoretical understanding of research methodologies appropriate to design, enabling students to select and apply rigorous methods in their investigations. The Critical Contexts module encourages students to situate their research within wider scholarly, cultural, and professional frameworks, ensuring an awareness of contemporary debates and historical perspectives in design. International and EU students are also supported through Academic Language Skills for Social Sciences and Humanities, which facilitates effective communication and critical writing. Collectively, these modules prepare graduates for advanced research, doctoral study, or professional roles in design, equipping them with analytical, creative, and professional expertise to succeed in academic or industry settings.