Design Innovation and Technology (MA)

Entry requirements

To apply for our MA Design Innovation and Technology course, you'll need:

• a 2:2 honours degree (or international equivalent) in any subject
• to submit a personal statement and PDF portfolio to support your application

We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds and experiences, including international applicants with an interest in design innovation and technology within their sector.

Non-standard entry will be considered and encouraged, with the academic team weighing applications on their merit (in relation to things such as work and life experience, and mitigating factors).

Months of entry

September

Course content

About this course

Our MA Design Innovation and Technology course at the University of Southampton's Winchester School of Art (WSA) combines creativity, user-centred design, and technology to explore how design thinking can drive transformation.

You will focus on innovation and making, learning to anticipate emerging trends and visualize the future. You'll gain expertise in applying creative problem-solving strategies to complex real-world challenges. The program will teach you to blend traditional craft skills (like woodworking and metalworking) with the latest digital technology and fabrication techniques (like 3D printing and CNC machining) to craft impactful and deeply engaging products and services. Throughout the course, you will also engage with the social and ethical responsibilities of design.

Your future career

This MA course positions you to start your own business as an innovator or entrepreneur or advance your skills with further research (e.g., a PhD).

You'll graduate with knowledge and skills in the design and technology innovation sector, confident in your abilities to create impactful and sustainable solutions, and prepared for careers in product design, consulting, and creative technology.

Key features of this course

At Southampton (WSA) you'll:

• Focus on both innovation and making, blending traditional craft skills with the latest digital technology and fabrication techniques.
• Work in a dedicated maker lab and utilize specialized facilities, including digital fabrication tools (3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines) and SMART design tools for exploring AI and robotics.
• Study modern modules such as Design Futures (exploring immersive/mixed reality technologies), Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Global Contexts and Systems, guided by frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
• Work with students from diverse creative and scientific backgrounds in collaborative maker lab spaces.
• Complete a self-directed Final Design Project—a substantial and original design-led investigation to develop an original product or service.

Further information

This master’s degree is taught at the Winchester School of Art (WSA). The typical offer is a 2:2 degree. The program is distinguished by its strong practical element and commitment to combining human-centered research with speculative design and emerging technologies. Visit the course page for a full list of modules and detailed requirements.

Information for international students

If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate your English ability by meeting our Band C requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in all components. For information on other accepted English language tests, please see our website.

Fees and funding

A variety of scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations. Please check the website for more information - https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/funding/postgraduate.page