Design and Innovation The Open University UK

Overview

Within this Design and Innovation DipHE from The Open University UK the design modules feature online design studios, social networking and inspiring study materials alongside a practical component. As well as design, you’ll study modules in complementary subjects to gain skills and knowledge in an area that fits your needs and interests.

Key facts:

• Teaches you about different design specialisms

• Focuses on the process and application design and innovation in real-world contexts

• Puts your learning into practice, building a portfolio of design work to show your ideas and skills

Skills for career development

The aim of this Design and Innovation diploma from The Open University UK is to broaden your design thinking and develop design skills around your own particular interests. You’ll develop your understanding of the processes, principles and issues involved in designing and producing new products, and the issues and challenges associated with designing. You’ll gain skills in applying and managing design processes and generate design ideas, concepts, proposals or solutions in response to set briefs to develop a small portfolio of work.

Career opportunities:

The skills gained through this diploma are relevant to a wide range of careers. The ability to use design thinking in a range of context is particularly valued by employers and you’ll also develop skills in representing your ideas to communicate them.

In addition to improving your career prospects, studying with the OU is an enriching experience that broadens your horizons, develops your knowledge, builds your confidence and enhances your life skills.

In the meantime, if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point (note that some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience):

• design engineer
• product designer
• web designer
• design consultant
• industrial designer
• research and development (R&D) manager
• graphic designer