About Design (Packaging Design), MA, PG Dip, Postgraduate Certificate - at Sheffield Hallam University
There are very few schools of packaging design and ours is the only MA course in this subject. Our aim is to establish a design culture of critical debate. We expect students to examine how changes in society, social attitudes, technology, politics and legislation can affect their role as a designer. Students may have completed an undergraduate programme in graphic design, industrial design or packaging design.
The MA course in Packaging Design maintains strong industrial contacts. We encourage designers already placed in industry to return in order to challenge industrial preconceptions or to diversity into a different area of packaging design.
This course is built on internationally recognised research by members of the course team. In the 2001 UK Research Assessment Exercise we were awarded a rating of 5 for research in Art and Design, the highest rating achieved by any university and only given to a small number of leading departments in this subject who can demonstrate that their research has international standing.
We offer international students a pre-MA programme leading to a Graduate Diploma in Design and English. This allows students to become familiar with the learning culture in art and design in the UK and develop their English language ability in a design environment.
FundingThe Arts and Humanities Research Board (AHRB) award bursaries to UK and EU students. These awards are based on merit so careful preparation of your application is essential. Applications for the bursary competition must be received at the AHRB in the spring of each yar but this requires a prior offer of a place on the course. To give yourself sufficient time to make an appropriate application we strongly recommend applying for the course before the end of January. Up-to-date details of the AHRB Professional and Vocational Awards scheme can be found at http://www.ahrb.ac.uk
Students are also encouraged to seek financial support from industry and, where an individual has the opportunity to do this, we can provide support and guidance in negotiating support.
Associated careersPackaging is a very large industry in which design has a significant role and our graduates are equipped to take a leading role. The course also encourages students to take a progressive approach to packaging design and packaging technology which can open up opportunities in other fields.
An increasing number of design graduates are undertaking further advanced study through research degrees (PhD) within the University’s Art and Design Research Centre which has a leading position in the advancement of creative practice in design.
AssessmentAssessment and feedback are vital parts of the learning process in creative disciplines. Most assessment, for the MA and intermediate awards, is through individual project work which combines research and creative practice. Assessment calls for both excellent creative work and well-documented research.
Course contentStudents will receive formal teaching in:
research methods for art and design
creative professionalism
Students can take part in a number of other options including: •
packaging technology
managing innovation
marketing
digital technologies for creative practice
The main part of the course is a substantial programme of individual project work. Students must propose an area for investigation and carry forward a programme of practical and theoretical investigation and creative work.
Entry requirementsNormally you need
a good first degree (2.1 or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline or significant relevant experience
appropriate study plans, including an indication of possible project topics and clear, appropriate and realistic learning aims
a high level of creative ability, as evidenced by a portfolio of work
ability to discuss design issues critically and confidently
