Programme overview
Through the Digital Design Futures course, students will acquire the necessary theoretical understanding and practical skills to thrive in the fast-paced and ever-changing field of digital design. This course will expose students to the theories of immersion while providing hands-on experience with the latest software and hardware in our dedicated studio, XLAB. By using design thinking and human-centered design principles, students will develop the ability to create systems and solutions that effectively cater to the needs of target audiences.
Furthermore, students will develop an entrepreneurial mindset that enables them to leverage the creative possibilities presented by emerging technologies such as VR/AR/MR, IoT, AI, and UX, as well as the vast opportunities provided by big data. Students will explore how cutting-edge technologies, such as XR and AI, can enhance creative processes and generate new possibilities.
Through collaborations with industries and third-sector organizations across the UK, students will gain insights into the diverse applications of technology in sectors such as branding and marketing, retail and fashion, and health education.
As the global demand for digital skills continues to rise, this course offers a unique opportunity to unleash students’ creative potential and align students’ skillset with the evolving needs of industry and society. Upon graduation, students will be ready and equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to forge a successful career in the exciting and innovative digital design sector.
Programme details
During your first semester, you will explore current thinking on design research and a range of research methods with practical applications in design. You will also learn about experiential practice and designing for immersion and engagement, which will help develop your digital design approach. We will critically examine the nature of the design discipline, allowing students to address the impact of new technologies such as VR, AR/MR, and AI in a critical and creative manner. How can these technologies enhance our creative processes, and what new opportunities and applications can they bring? Furthermore, we will consider the implications of using these technologies for addressing the needs of individuals and how they can be utilized to better meet those needs.
In addition, students will be introduced to various creative uses of these technologies in design through the examination of case studies and talks by practitioners in different design fields. They will also be introduced to immersive experiences that effectively engage users, while exploring the principles of 3D modeling and XR development. By mastering these skills, students can create seamless experiences that facilitate engagement.
You’ll continue to explore immersion and engagement theory and knowledge in your second semester, as well as design speculation. This includes engaging in creative problem-solving scenarios around certain design problems or situations.
The third semester will focus on the delivery of your final project. You will receive support throughout the project journey from a dedicated member of staff who will guide you and provide feedback on your work. By the end of the third semester, you will have developed and delivered a specialized project focused on a digital design solution.
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules:
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DESN5111M | Experiential Practices | 30 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | |
| DESN5132M | Research Methods for Digital Design Futures | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | PFP |
| DESN5140M | Design for Immersion and Engagement | 45 | Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) | |
| DESN5142M | Design Speculation | 30 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| DESN5183M | Specialist Project | 60 | 1 Jan to 31 Aug |
Last updated: 30/04/2026 15:55:37
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