BA (Hons) Design Management

This Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Design Management focuses on developing the strategic, leadership, and production skills necessary to create and implement innovative solutions for business, social, and global challenges. You will learn to apply design thinking and management principles to drive innovation, meet customer needs, and achieve organizational goals. The course emphasizes both the strategic and practical aspects of design, equipping you with professional and transferable skills in entrepreneurship, communication, and change management. Design management is explored through various lenses, including service design, organizational change, and social impact, enabling you to translate complex issues into actionable opportunities. You will develop a strong understanding of contemporary design tools, processes, and mindsets, learning to approach problems creatively and strategically. The curriculum covers foundational knowledge in visual communication, research, project management, and production, alongside critical thinking about theories and frameworks in design management, such as systems thinking, human-centered design, and creative economy analysis. The program encourages experimentation with emerging practices, including insights and trend forecasting, and fosters collaborative work on co-design projects. You will gain experience in understanding diverse cultures and client/user needs from a socially responsible perspective. Practical projects and workshops will immerse you in the design process, from research and problem definition to prototyping and evaluation. The course also emphasizes the importance of industry experience, with opportunities for live projects, guest lectures, and the potential to undertake a Diploma in Professional Studies between years two and three.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured over three years, with each year focusing on key themes and skills, embedding principles of climate, racial, and social justice throughout.

1. Year 1: Production and Process
   • Introduction to Design Management
   • Design Management Production
   • Design Management Process
   • Responsible Design
2. Year 2: Facilitation
   • People and Planet: Marketing and Branding
   • Professional Practices
   • Design Cultures
3. Year 3: Strategy and Practice

Careers

Graduates from this program are equipped with a future-focused skill set and can pursue diverse roles across various industries. The course's industry focus ensures students are well-prepared for the professional world.

• Studio Manager
• Project Manager
• Account Manager
• Client Manager
• Brand Manager
• Researcher
• Strategist
• Creative Director
• Social Designer
• Strategic Designer
• CEO
• Founder
• Marketing Professional
• Entrepreneur
• Business Development
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) roles
• Operational roles in creative industries and beyond