MA Design Management at University of Southampton

This MA Design Management course helps you strengthen your creative thinking, strategic decision making and understanding of real user needs. You will learn how to connect creativity with strategy by combining design thinking with contemporary management principles. The course focuses on ethical leadership, sustainable practice, culture mapping and a global outlook.

Faculty: Arts and Humanities  |  Department: Art, design and fashion  |  Duration: 1 year full-time  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Intake: September 2027  |  Location: Southampton, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Design Management sets the foundation for your journey into design leadership. You will explore how ideas move from concept to reality, building a strong understanding of both creative and strategic approaches. You will learn how to balance innovation with leadership, developing the skills to lead ethically and make decisions that create positive impact.

Career pathways

Graduates commonly work in sectors including self employment, freelancing, high street retailers, online retailers, digital marketing agencies, design consultants, interior design studios, universities. Careers directly related to the course include UX designer, product manager, marketing executive, creative director, design manager, market researcher, business strategist, brand manager.

Official programme page