University of Derby United Kingdom

Postgraduate Design MA/MDes

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 Postgraduate Design MA/MDes at the University of Derby is designed for ambitious creatives seeking to elevate their practice through advanced conceptualisation and critical inquiry. You will engage with the complex challenges and opportunities within contemporary design, preparing you for leadership roles in fields such as graphic design, illustration, fashion, and product development. This Master's degree is ideal for those who wish to synthesise their existing skills and research into a significant, personally driven design project, positioning you at the forefront of your chosen specialism.

This full-time, on-campus Master's programme is typically completed over one year, immersing you in a collaborative studio environment. You will develop your final project through a Negotiated Learning Agreement, working closely with supervisors and presenting your progress to Concept Panels for expert feedback. The Design Synthesis module is core to your MA/MDes, allowing you to integrate your learning into an exhibition-ready project. You will graduate with a substantial portfolio and the advanced critical and practical skills necessary to excel in the professional design industry or pursue further academic research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This postgraduate program offers a culminating design synthesis experience, allowing students to choose a specialized module aligned with their MA or MDes focus. Whether in Graphic Design, Illustration, Fashion, Textile Design, Interior and Spatial Design, or Product Design, students will engage in advanced synthesis to complete their studies. This final stage emphasizes the integration of knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program.

1 Choose one module on the third and final stage of the programme:

Design Synthesis: Core to MA Design
Design Synthesis: Graphic Design, core to MDes Graphic Design
Design Synthesis: Illustration, core to MDes Illustration
Design Synthesis: Fashion, core to MDes Fashion
Design Synthesis: Textile Design, core to MDes Textile Design
Design Synthesis: Interior and Spatial Design, core to MDes Interior and Spatial Design
Design Synthesis: Product Design, core to MDes Product Design

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

11% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,971.00 USD 23,654.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 20,971.00 USD 23,654.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on Derby Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Curriculum & Instructional DesignEducational Support ServicesHigher Education & UniversitiesLive Events & ConcertsMedia Production & EditingMuseums & Cultural HeritagePhotojournalism & Visual MediaPublic Broadcasting & DocumentaryStreaming & Digital ContentTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AQA

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Derby Theatre

fiverr

Why Study Postgraduate Design MA/MDes at University of Derby

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Derby in United Kingdom

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 Postgraduate Design MA/MDes at University of Derby

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks for degree courses. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must have an IELTS overall score of 6.0, with no individual scores below 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Meeting these requirements is essential for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various roles, including Graphic Designer, Product Designer, Fashion Designer, User Experience Designer, and Marketing Specialist.

What will I actually study in this course?

The program at the University of Derby fosters advanced skills in design through a blend of theoretical study and practical projects. Students will delve into topics like graphic design and product design.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Postgraduate Design MA/MDes program offers intakes in January and September. You can choose to begin your studies in either of these months.
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