At a glance
12 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
€21k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Work on exciting professional projects and exhibitions.Professional Projects
- Learn from accomplished design professionals.Expert Faculty
- Access dedicated studio spaces and excellent workshop facilities.State-of-the-art Facilities
- Choose from specialist pathways including Graphics, Illustration, and Textiles.Specialist Pathways
- Access to the full Adobe Creative Suite.Adobe Creative Campus
- Culminates in a public exhibition of your Masters Project.Public Exhibition
The MA Design program at Bath Spa University is designed for students seeking to elevate their creative practice to a professional standard. This practical, one-year course encourages a dynamic exchange of ideas across visual design and applied arts. You can either explore a broad design interest or specialize through pathways in Visual Communication, Graphics, Textiles, or Illustration. Throughout the program, you will develop professional, critical, and research skills, working both independently and collaboratively with peers from various art and design disciplines. The curriculum is structured to foster an experimental approach, culminating in a significant self-directed Masters Project and a public exhibition of your final work. This program aims to build confidence, enhance portfolios, and prepare you for a successful transition into industry or further academic studies.
Curriculum
The MA Design program is a one-year course divided into three trimesters, focusing on practice-led research, theory, and professional practice modules. Specialist tutors and technicians will guide you, helping you develop coherent and visually compelling design outcomes. The program culminates in a public exhibition of your Masters Project at the Locksbrook campus.
- Year 1
- Research Methods
- Theory and Professional Context
- Practice 1 (Design)
- Research Practice
- Theory and Professional Practices
- Practice 2 (Design)
- Master's Project
Careers
Graduates of the MA Design program are equipped with strong digital and creative skills, preparing them for a variety of roles within the design and creative industries. The program helps develop a wealth of indispensable digital skills, enhanced by access to the full Adobe Creative Suite as part of Bath Spa University being an Adobe Creative Campus.
- Illustrator
- Graphic Designer
- Visual Communicator
- Textile Designer
- Interior Designer
- Photographer
- Picture Editor
- Art Director
- Multimedia Artist
- Animator
- Set and Exhibition Designer
- Picture Researcher
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students on the MA Design programme?
- International students typically pay £18,500 per year for tuition. Fees are annual and subject to an increase, usually confirmed in March for the following academic year.
- What is the duration of the MA Design programme?
- The MA Design program is a one-year course divided into three trimesters. It culminates in a significant self-directed Masters Project.
- What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
- Applicants typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any single component.
- How do I apply for the MA Design programme?
- You need to submit your application online through the Bath Spa University admissions portal. Prepare your portfolio, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a personal statement.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing the MA Design programme?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Illustrator, Graphic Designer, Visual Communicator, Textile Designer, Art Director, and Animator within the design and creative industries.
- What specializations are available within the MA Design programme?
- You can specialize through pathways in Visual Communication, Graphics, Textiles, or Illustration, or explore a broader design interest.
Entry requirements
IELTS AcademicOverall 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any single component.
Specific academic qualifications were not detailed, but a strong portfolio reflecting your design interests and prior experience would likely be required for a Masters in Design.
Fees
Tuition (international)International students typically pay £18,500 per year.
Tuition (home)Home/UK students typically pay £9,250 per year.
Living—
Fees are annual and subject to an annual increase, usually confirmed in March for the following academic year. You will incur fees until your thesis submission date, after which a 'continuation fee' applies, covering your viva examination and continued university access.
How to apply
1. Explore the Program and PathwaysFamiliarize yourself with the MA Design program and consider which specialist pathway (e.g., Graphics, Illustration, Textiles, Visual Communication) aligns with your career aspirations.
2. Prepare Your PortfolioBegin compiling a strong portfolio that showcases your design skills, creative interests, and prior work. This is a practical design course, and your portfolio will be a key part of your application.
3. Submit Your Application OnlineApplications for postgraduate programs are submitted directly through the Bath Spa University admissions portal. Visit the 'Apply Now' link on the program page to access the application system.
4. Prepare Required DocumentsGather all necessary supporting documents, which typically include academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS certificate), and a personal statement. Specific requirements will be listed in the application portal.
5. Attend an Interview (if requested)After reviewing your application and portfolio, you may be invited for an interview. This is an opportunity to discuss your work and motivations for studying MA Design.
6. Receive and Respond to an OfferIf successful, you will receive an offer of admission. Be sure to respond to your offer by the deadline specified.
7. Arrange Funding and Visa (International Students)Once you have accepted an offer, begin to arrange your tuition fees and living costs. International students will also need to apply for a student visa. The university can provide guidance on this process.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students on the MA Design programme?
+
International students typically pay £18,500 per year for tuition. Fees are annual and subject to an increase, usually confirmed in March for the following academic year.
What is the duration of the MA Design programme?
+
The MA Design program is a one-year course divided into three trimesters. It culminates in a significant self-directed Masters Project.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
+
Applicants typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any single component.
How do I apply for the MA Design programme?
+
You need to submit your application online through the Bath Spa University admissions portal. Prepare your portfolio, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a personal statement.
What career paths can I pursue after completing the MA Design programme?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Illustrator, Graphic Designer, Visual Communicator, Textile Designer, Art Director, and Animator within the design and creative industries.
What specializations are available within the MA Design programme?
+
You can specialize through pathways in Visual Communication, Graphics, Textiles, or Illustration, or explore a broader design interest.