Active Practice MA

This course empowers you to critically engage with the purpose and value of artefacts, systems, and processes, equipping you to address complex social, political, and technological challenges with innovative design solutions. By merging critical inquiry with hands-on studio work, you will develop the skills and confidence to become a leader driving transformative change in the design field.<br/><br/>With a strong emphasis on social change, the course centres on learning by doing. Active design processes—such as making and dialogue—are crucial for developing competencies in design research, analysis, creative problem-solving, and prototyping. Key themes like Design Cultures, Connections, and Challenges will guide your practice-based learning through individual and collaborative projects, enhancing your teamwork and communication skills via real-world design briefs and live assignments.<br/><br/>Housed in the historic Birmingham School of Art, this program thrives within a vibrant research culture that welcomes practitioners from diverse backgrounds. Our dynamic studio environment fosters individual growth and collaboration, empowering you to build an impressive portfolio and expand your professional network through participation in design festivals and workshops across Europe.<br/><br/>Our alumni have successfully ventured into various careers, including independent design practices, PhD research, teaching, service design, consultancy, and tech start-ups. <br/><br/>**Whats covered in the course?**<br/><br/><br/>- Engage in a curriculum that combines hands-on design practice with in-depth theoretical insights.<br/><br/><br/>- Explore how design shapes society, politics, economics, and the environment.<br/><br/><br/>- Develop critical thinking skills to apply innovative approaches in your practice and research.<br/><br/><br/>- Address complex design challenges with ethical awareness and responsibility.<br/><br/><br/>- Build advanced analytical skills for effective problem-solving and insightful evaluation.<br/><br/><br/>- Prepare to lead as an adaptable, change-driven professional in the design industry.<br/>