Introduction to the Design Innovation Program

The Design Innovation program at Loughborough University London is a unique blend of theoretical and practice-based modules. This program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to drive positive change in organizations through design.

Qualification(s) Available

The Design Innovation program offers two qualifications: MA and MSc.

Fees

The fees for the Design Innovation program are as follows:

• Dependent on start date. See below.

Scholarships Available

Scholarships are available for students who meet the eligibility criteria.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the Design Innovation program are:

• 2:2+ honors degree (or equivalent international qualification) in design (e.g., engineering design, fashion design, art and design), innovation, business, media, technology, or a related subject.
• Applicants from non-design backgrounds must have achieved 55% or above in their final year.

Full-time and Part-time Study Options

The Design Innovation program is available for both full-time and part-time study.

• Full-time: 1 year
• Part-time: Up to 4 years

Location

The Design Innovation program is based in London.

Start Date

The program starts in October 2025, January 2026, or October 2026.

Department

The Design Innovation program is offered by the Institute for Creative Futures.

Program Description

The Design Innovation program is designed to develop the design mindset and skills required to instill positive change in and across organizations. The program explores key topics such as design in organizations, design thinking, service design strategy, and design research. Students will examine how design and innovation practices apply to current issues and debates in areas like sustainability, inclusivity, and digitalization.

Program Structure

The program consists of the following modules:

Semester 1

Compulsory Modules

• Design Futures (15 credits)
• Design in Organisations (15 credits)
• Grand Challenges (15 credits)

Optional Modules

• Design Innovation (15 credits)
• Sustainable Innovation (15 credits)

Semester 2

Compulsory Modules

• Design Research (15 credits)
• Design for Experiences (15 credits)
• Collaborative Project (15 credits)

Optional Modules

• Service Design Strategy (15 credits)
• Design Ecologies (15 credits)

Summer

Compulsory Modules

• Dissertation (60 credits)

Assessment

Students can expect to complete essays and reports of varying lengths, as well as presentations, projects, and exams.

Teaching Methods

The program uses a range of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Independent study
• Group work
• Workshops
• Practical sessions

Location of Study

The program is based on the Loughborough University London campus, with access to all on-site facilities and opportunities to learn off campus.

Entry Requirements for International Students

The entry requirements for international students vary depending on the country of origin. The university uses the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities to identify the required final mark.

English Language Requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Fees and Funding

The fees for the program are as follows:

• UK fee: £13,250 (full-time degree per annum)
• International fee: £30,950 (full-time degree per annum)

Your Development

The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to progress confidently in their design innovation career. By the end of the program, students will be able to:

• Understand, analyze, and evaluate design as a strategic tool to foster change and innovation in organizations.
• Identify and implement human-centered, value-driven innovation opportunities using design approaches and tools.
• Create immersive environments based on future narratives.
• Conduct design research using appropriate methods.
• Help organizations design for user experience.
• Formulate service design strategy and manage complex service innovation processes.

Our Academics

The program is led by Dr. Ksenija Kuzmina, Programme Director, Institute for Creative Futures. Dr. Kuzmina's research interest is in exploring how service design can promote human development whilst engaging with evolving social and ecological challenges.

Your Future Career

The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to make an impact in senior design roles in business, as a design consultant, or to go into policy or further academic study. Graduates of the program have taken their skills into wide-ranging roles, including:

• Design project managers
• Senior design consultants
• Design researchers
• Startup founders
• Digital designer
• Product designer
• Product manager
• Service designer
• UX designer

Some of the employers they are now working with include:

• Bank of England
• Snook
• Asthma UK
• Fiora
• Level Development Limited
• RuiGu
• Chuango AIoT Technology Corporation

Related Master's Degrees

The university offers several related master's degrees, including:

• Design and Branding MA
• Design Innovation Management MSc
• Service Design Innovation MSc

Loughborough University

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Overview:

Loughborough University is a public research university located in Loughborough, Leicestershire, England. It is renowned for its strong academic programs, particularly in sports science, engineering, and business. The university boasts a vibrant campus life and a strong focus on research and innovation.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Loughborough University offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and volunteering opportunities. The university has a strong sporting heritage and is home to world-class facilities. Students can also enjoy a vibrant social scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and events happening on campus.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class facilities:

Loughborough University boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a dedicated sports village, a modern library, and cutting-edge research labs.

Strong academic reputation:

The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK for its academic excellence.

Vibrant campus life:

Students can enjoy a lively and diverse campus community with numerous opportunities for social interaction and personal development.

Focus on research and innovation:

Loughborough University is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on tackling real-world challenges.

Excellent career prospects:

Graduates from Loughborough University are highly sought after by employers, with strong career prospects in various fields.

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Academic Programs:

Loughborough University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Engineering:

Aerospace, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and more.

Business and Economics:

Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, and more.

Sport Science:

Exercise Science, Sports Coaching, Sports Management, and more.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

Psychology, Sociology, History, and more.

Science and Technology:

Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, and more.

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Other:

Loughborough University has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The university is actively working towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions and promoting inclusivity and diversity within its community.