CurriculumThe Digital Design Programme


Year 1Semester 1September to January

Interaction Design FundamentalsMr David McCellendUXD101 / 40 Credits

Placing a heavy emphasis on a design-focused approach towards interaction design, this module introduces the fundamentals of communication design, both off- and on-screen. Students are equipped with the tools required to practice in today's interaction design industry through a combination of core analogue (drawing, making) and digital (HTML, CSS, no-code) skills.

Design HistoryMr Paul McCormackUXD102 / 20 Credits

In this module students are introduced to the history of communication design. Starting with imagined communication devices of the future (AI, IoT, Virtual and Augmented Reality) in a single lecture, students are taken back in time to the era of the printing press (Guttenberg et al.), demonstrating the connections that bind human communication together.

Semester 2January to May

Exploring IdentityMr Daniel PhilpottUXD103 / 40 Credits

This module aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to develop effective brand identities in a competitive marketplace. It covers strategic brand strategy development, target audience identification, value proposition definition, and market analysis. Students will learn logo creation, colour selection, typography, and effective imagery use, developing skills in crafting brand guidelines for consistency across touchpoints. Additionally, storytelling, tone of voice, and brand personality will be explored for impactful brand messaging.

Visual Imaging and InteractionDr Kyle BoydUXD104 / 20 Credits

We have been led to believe that a picture is worth a thousand words. This module puts that truism to the test. Exploring non-verbal communication, we introduce students to photographic, illustrative, and diagrammatic approaches to communication in digital design. Showcasing the power of the image in communication the module equips students with the ability to not only create images, but also brief others' on how to create images.


Year 2Semester 1September to January

Content DesignDr. Kyle BoydUXD301 / 40 Credits

This module explores the importance of considering content - in all its forms - as a core element of any piece of Digital design that can, itself, be designed. Content Design is becoming increasingly relevant in today's digital age, where businesses and organisation's are expected to produce high-quality content that engages their audience and communicates their message effectively. Content design involves creating and organising content in a way that is user-centered, accessible, and visually appealing.

Professional PracticeMr Daniel PhilpottUXD302 / 20 Credits

This module introduces students to fundamental skills required for employability both for industry placement and beyond, preparing them for the demands of the industry and bridging the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application. Through a series of interconnected lectures, seminars and workshops, students are introduced to the fundamental tools for self-promotion and recruitment in a design role with a heavy focus on CVs, design portfolios and interview skills early in the module to support their applications to placement employers.

Semester 2January to May

User Experience & Service DesignMr David McCellendUXD303 / 40 Credits

User Experience (UX) and Service Design have grown significantly in recent years. As the digital world continues to expand, the need for skilled professionals who can design effective and efficient user interfaces and experiences has become crucial. This module aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of UX and Service Design, enabling them to design products and services that meet the needs of users.

Playful InteractionsMr Paul McCormackUXD304 / 20 Credits

The Playful Interactions module is designed to empower students with the expertise needed to craft narratives that have captivating and immersive experiences. It encompasses advanced prototyping, VR/AR design, design fiction, and emerging technologies, delving into the exciting realm of playful interactions for the future. This module fosters skill development, encouraging students to create interactive, playful, and employable designs that integrate digital technology.


Year 3Semester 1 & 2Optional One Year Placement

International Academic StudiesAAD324 / 120 Credits

Placing a heavy emphasis on a design-focussed approach towards interaction design, this module introduces the fundamentals of the craft of communication design, both off- and on-screen. Through a combination of core analogue (drawing, making) and digital (HTML, CSS) skills, students are equipped with the tools required to practice in today’s interaction design industry.

PlacementIXD306 / 60 Credits

This optional module provides an opportunity for students to gain first hand practical experience within a professional environment prior to their final year of study.


Year 4Semester 1 & 2September to May

Major ProjectMr Daniel Philpott, Mr. Paul McCormack & Dr Kyle BoydUXD501 / 80 Credits (This module spans across Semesters 1 & 2.)

This module focuses on equipping students with a combination of skills, centred on the design and build of a sustained piece of coursework, which enables them to showcase what they have learned throughout the entirety of the course. The aim of the module is to highlight the depth and breadth of knowledge students have acquired throughout their study.

Semester 1September to January

Research and WritingDr Kyle BoydUXD502 / 30 Credits

This module is intended to consolidate the students' knowledge and understanding of history and theory, by providing an opportunity for students to generate a body of unique research, tailored to their specialist area.

Semester 2January to May

Design PresentationDr. Kyle BoydUXD503 / 10 Credits

Design Presentation equips students with the skills to confidently articulate their ideas, pitching them to an audience in a manner that is both reasoned and persuasive.

The module allows students to expand upon their research skills to further a deeper understanding of the subject area in general, and to help in evidencing concepts, ideas and rationales relating to the work undertaken for the Major Project.

The module develops advanced presentation skills in the field of digital design.