Design with Innovation

Do you want to make a difference in the world by designing products and services that people love? The innovators of the 21st century will think across disciplines—arts, science, engineering, humanities, and business — to develop groundbreaking products, services, and ways of living. They will be collaborative problem-solvers with a breadth of skills that enable them to work across specialisms and cultures.

This unique course at the University of Bristol combines in-depth subject expertise with interdisciplinary, practice-based learning. Alongside your innovation studies, you will apply your design knowledge by transforming ideas into enterprising solutions - both social and commercial.

Design with Innovation offers a multidisciplinary curriculum that includes user-centred design, ethnographic research methods, idea visualisation, interaction design, cognitive psychology, human factors, data analysis, and design leadership. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, you will apply your skills to real-world projects tailored to your interests and career aspirations. Graduates of this programme will also be well-prepared for postgraduate study in specialist master’s programmes at leading international universities.

Group work is a core component of teaching and learning in Innovation. You will work alongside students from diverse disciplines such as psychology, physics, and film and television. Each subject brings a unique perspective to problem-solving, helping you identify needs and develop creative solutions. By contributing your insights and learning from others, you will cultivate innovative approaches to real-world challenges together. The programme also supports personal development, offering opportunities to pursue topics and projects aligned with your interests and values.

By the time you graduate, you will have a portfolio of work ranging from live client projects to planning personal entrepreneurial ventures. You will have learned how to assess the potential of products and services and sustain new enterprises — including securing funding. Importantly, you will have cultivated a network of peers and advisers who have worked with you throughout your journey.

For more information visit the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

The Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship will be located in the University’s new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus, opening 2026, where your Innovation units will be taught. Here, a new Centre student hub, Active Learning Studios, a hands-on Maker Space and event spaces will provide the backdrop for challenge-led learning and enhanced links with businesses.

Your Design units will be taught on the Clifton Campus, home to the University’s main library, the Students’ Union and more.