Design Management (Taught)

About this course
The MA in Design Management is designed to bridge the gap between design and business by combining creative thinking with management theories. The course focuses on academic research and theoretical frameworks to help you develop the critical analysis and decision-making skills needed to address societal and industry challenges. You will learn the key values and principles of responsible design and expand your knowledge in crucial contemporary areas, including:
• Strategic planning in the design process
• Sustainable practice and ethics
• Design and digital transformation
• Generative AI
• User Experience (UX) design and inclusive, human-centred design
The goal is for you to develop original ideas that improve business value creation and competitive advantage by aligning design principles with business goals for a dynamic global environment.

We are ranked 8th in the UK for research quality (Complete University Guide 2026).

Your future career
This course prepares you for a future career in design management or further studies, such as a PhD. It equips you with professional skills to work effectively in a dynamic global environment. Graduates are positioned for roles that require a blend of creative and strategic leadership. As a graduate from a top 20 UK university for employability*, you'll be well-prepared for your next step.

Key features of this course
• Industry Insight: You'll hear from specialist industry speakers and participate in museum study trips to advance your knowledge of design context.
• Contemporary Focus: The curriculum includes cutting-edge topics like Generative AI and User Experience Design.
• Location: The course is based at Winchester School of Art.
• Core Modules: Compulsory modules include Design Management Principles and Practices, Strategic Design Management (SDM), and Leadership and Ethics.

Further information
This is a full-time master's course. Your studies culminate in the Design Management Final Project: Critical Paper, which involves independent research that explores how your project advances professional principles in the field. The course welcomes students with a 2:2 degree in a range of relevant subjects, including architecture, business, graphic design, marketing, and sociology.

*Complete University Guide Graduate Prospects Ranking 2026.

"Compulsory modules include: Design Management 1 & 2; Strategic Design and Management; Professional and Academic Skills 1 & 2; Final Project. Optional modules include: Digital Cultures; Entrepreneurship; Experimental Publishing; Exploring the Visual Language of Display; Global Marketing.

For a full list of modules please visit: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/design-management-masters-ma#modules"

Assessment methods vary by module, but may include presentations and written assignments, such as project reports and critical analyses. Your dissertation will also contribute to your final mark.