Applied Innovation Design
Bangor , United Kingdom
MSc Applied Innovation Design
Prifysgol Bangor University
Innovation Design & Design Thinking
MSc Applied Innovation Design at Bangor University
The MSc Applied Innovation Design at Prifysgol Bangor University prepares you to take a leading role in driving change across any field through the experiential application of current theory and commercial practices. Whether innovation means a new product or service, organisational change, new processes, or establishing strategic direction, this programme equips you with design thinking processes and collaborative approaches to create real value.
The course is designed to challenge you to engage with design at all levels, from understanding its wider role and value in organisations to applying creativity and innovation tools as a leader, facilitator, and practitioner. It consists of two semesters of study including design-based projects, academic study, and the option to undertake a research-focused industrial placement, leading to a final stand-alone research project.
The programme is delivered by the Applied Design Centre, where academics have extensive links with design and manufacturing companies both locally and globally. These industry connections ensure that modules remain relevant for modern roles in innovation design and provide a basis for professional development through work placements and commercially focused projects with real partner companies.
Key Program Highlights
- Live industry briefs with real companies, enabling you to work on actual commercial design challenges and develop professional portfolios
- Flexible final research project with three paths: commercial delivery, entrepreneurship, or commercial consultancy based on your career aspirations
- Hands-on training with industry-standard software including SolidWorks, Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator
- Part-time study option available, allowing you to study alongside employment in a design-related role
Curriculum and Module Structure
The curriculum is split between essential core modules that provide an in-depth understanding of tools and techniques for applying innovative design thinking, and optional modules that allow you to pursue specialist areas of interest. The programme blends theory with practice through experiential teaching tools, diverse assessment methods, and real-world project work.
Design Thinking - Practice
20 CreditsIntroduces practical processes associated with implementing design thinking methodologies within multidisciplinary teams. Focuses on facilitation of design processes to enhance innovation and prepares you for managing commercial design projects.
Design Thinking - Strategy
20 CreditsEquips you with in-depth knowledge of the strategic role and value of design thinking to bring about innovation and create change in emotional, behavioural, and cultural contexts. Covers planning design thinking methodology and human-centred design approaches.
Design Project
20 CreditsStudents apply all knowledge, understanding, and skills accumulated throughout the design and strategic thinking modules to produce a valid practical outcome suited to innovative contexts, which could be an artefact, system, or service.
Dissertation
60 CreditsAn individually executed design research project resulting in a formal written dissertation on a topic jointly agreed between supervisor and student. The dissertation meets the programme's advanced learning outcomes.
Extended Design Project (Alternative to Dissertation)
60 CreditsOffers the opportunity to carry out a substantial body of research and testing, optionally as a continuation of the Design Project Module, resulting in an artefact, system, or service with a comprehensive write-up of findings and conclusions.
Research Methods and Innovation Processes
20 CreditsCovers research methodologies relevant to design innovation, including how to relate innovation processes and models to the performance of organisations and how to plan and execute design research effectively.
Optional Specialist Modules
Admission Requirements
The MSc Applied Innovation Design welcomes applicants from a variety of academic backgrounds who share a passion for design thinking and innovation. The programme is designed for graduates who wish to enhance their career prospects through advanced study in applied innovation, with the flexibility to tailor the course to their own area of industry interest.
Academic Requirements
- Degree ClassificationA first or high second class (2:1) honours degree in a related subject such as Design, Psychology, or Business, or equivalent qualifications and experience
- Background RequirementA background or proven interest in design, or design-related activity
- Equivalent QualificationsEquivalent international qualifications or relevant professional experience may be accepted
- Study ModeFull-time (1 year) or Part-time (2 years) options available
- Personal StatementA strong personal statement demonstrating your interest in innovation, design thinking, and your career goals
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.5
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for current accepted score
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for current accepted score
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Bangor University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support international postgraduate students. With over GBP 1,000,000 in bursaries and scholarships available for new and returning students, there are meaningful opportunities to reduce your financial costs. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on which funding options apply to your situation.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 3,000 for postgraduate studentsAvailable for all international postgraduate taught course applicants. No separate application is required; all applicants are automatically considered based on course choice, academic performance, personal statement, references, and experience.
Bangor Merit Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000Awarded to outstanding applicants at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels based on academic excellence. This partial funding scholarship recognises high-achieving students across all disciplines.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
Full funding (tuition, living costs, travel)Jointly funded by Bangor University and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, these scholarships support eligible students from Commonwealth countries for masters study. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details and application guidance.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MSc Applied Innovation Design are equipped to lead on design innovation and change in commercial contexts, pursue roles as design practitioners, and launch entrepreneurial ventures. The programme's emphasis on real-world projects with industry partners provides a strong foundation for immediate employment, with students frequently securing roles through their placement and project work.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Prifysgol Bangor University is a well-established institution founded in 1884 with over 140 years of academic excellence. The university is recognised in multiple global and national ranking systems, and its Applied Design Centre has gained considerable national respect for its innovation-focused teaching and commercially successful student projects.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture & Forestry | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 150 |
| Psychology | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
| Product Design | Guardian University Guide | #1 in UK |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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