Program Overview

Gain the theoretical understanding and practical skills needed in the fast-paced and rapidly-evolving area of digital design. You’ll learn about the theories of immersion and neuroscience, and develop hands-on experience working directly with the latest software and hardware through a series of creative projects in our new dedicated studio XLAB. Underpinned by your learning of design thinking and human centred design, you’ll develop your ability to develop systems and solutions for, and with, your target audiences so that your designs best meet their needs.

You’ll also develop an understanding of entrepreneurial thinking that will help you to capitalise on the creative opportunities presented by big data and technologies such as VR/AR, IoT, AI, UX and projection mapping. You’ll explore how VR, AR and AI can enhance creative processes and the new opportunities they help to create.

Through industry and third sector collaborations from around the UK, you’ll be introduced to the varied applications of technology in sectors including branding and marketing, retail and fashion and health education.

As global demand for digital skills rises, this course will provide you with a unique opportunity to challenge yourself creatively and align your skillset with the developing and future needs of industry and society as a whole. You’ll be equipped to forge your career path in the exciting and creative digital design sector.

Specialist facilities

We have plenty of facilities to help you make the most of your time at Leeds. We have an impressive range of resources that you can use to develop your projects.

For those interested in engaging with immersive technologies, we offer standalone Android-based Virtual Reality headsets, enabling VR prototype testing and development of research and design projects. Other excellent research facilities include our eye-tracking measurement system including mobile glasses, which are used to understand how users interact with design. We also have EEG (electroencephalography) equipment to understand how users interact with the world. We have a lighting and colour lab with the latest colour measurement and communication tools to explore the role of colour in the design and retail industry and the effect of light on health and wellbeing.

We also house the M&S Company Archive including documents, advertising, photos, films, clothing and merchandise from throughout Marks & Spencer’s history.

You’ll be able to develop your practice in well-equipped studios and workshops, and have access to the latest design software, as well as some of the latest design technology, such as digital printing, screen-printing, 3D printing, and laser cutting.