Heriot-Watt University Dubai United Arab Emirates

MSc Design Management

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MSc Design Management at Heriot-Watt University Dubai is engineered for ambitious professionals seeking to harness design as a powerful catalyst for business innovation and strategic growth. You will delve into critical areas such as design thinking, strategic design, sustainable design and management, and user experience (UX) design, developing the expertise to address complex global challenges. This postgraduate degree is ideal for those aiming to drive transformative change across diverse sectors, from traditional creative industries to emerging markets in finance, health, and hospitality, particularly within the dynamic business landscape of the Middle East.

This full-time, on-campus Master's degree is delivered over one year, immersing you in a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application through modules like Change Management and Research Methodologies. You will undertake a significant Masters Project, culminating in an academic paper that showcases your ability to apply advanced design management principles. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to pursue leadership roles in design-focused organisations, contributing to economic diversification and fostering imaginative, interdisciplinary collaboration in the region and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc program in Design Management equips students with essential skills for leading design initiatives. The curriculum covers core areas such as design thinking, strategic design, sustainable design, and change management, alongside research methodologies. Students will also explore elective modules in design technologies and user experience design, culminating in a compulsory Masters Project focused on an academic paper.

1 September Intake

Design Thinking and Innovation Compulsory
Strategic Design Compulsory
Sustainable Design & Management Compulsory
Change Management Compulsory
Research Methodologies Compulsory
Design Technologies Elective
User Experience Design Elective
Masters Project: Academic Paper Compulsory

2 January Intake

Change Management Compulsory
Research Methodologies Compulsory
Design Technologies Elective
User Experience Design Elective
Design Thinking and Innovation Compulsory
Strategic Design Compulsory
Sustainable Design & Management Compulsory
Masters Project: Academic Paper Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,100.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 27,100.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Banking & Financial ServicesDigital MarketingFisheries & AquacultureGaming & Interactive MediaInvestment Management & Asset ManagementLivestock & Animal HusbandryMusic & Performing ArtsPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalSocial Media & Community ManagementSupply Chain & Commodity Trading

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Al Jazeera Media Network

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Deloitte UK

EY

Sky Group

Why Study MSc Design Management at Heriot-Watt University Dubai

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Very Fast Application response time

Heriot-Watt University Dubai typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Heriot-Watt University Dubai in United Arab Emirates

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MSc Design Management at Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 15 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks in the UAE. A separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To apply, you'll need to meet specific English language requirements. For TOEFL, you must achieve an overall score of 90, and for IELTS, the minimum overall score is 6.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Design Manager, UX Designer, Brand Strategist, Sustainability Consultant, and Product Development Manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MSc Design Management program combines advanced design thinking and strategic change to empower students. It addresses global challenges like decarbonisation and promotes interdisciplinary collaboration across various industries.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Design Management program has intakes in January and September each year. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your place.
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