Design Writing Criticism

Content

This MA in Design Writing Criticism is the first course of its kind in Europe. You will be encouraged to take advantage of our strong links with editors, journalists and critics working nationally and internationally in the magazine, newspaper and publishing industries.

The course takes as its starting point the way in which text, image and a combination thereof, may be used to carry a 'point of view'. You will examine the conventional written forms of design journalism and criticism and the nontraditional forms of the 'new visual journalism'. Divided into three main phases you will be introduced to design history, design theory, professional practices and undertake a self-initiated Major Project.

The staff team is comprised of experienced design writers, practitioners and specialists in design history/theory, architecture and curation. Students will benefit from a guest lecture programme of visiting scholars and leading professionals.

Structure

There are three main stages to this programme:

Stage 1

Through a series of projects and assignments, you will explore a set of fundamental questions to define concepts relating to contemporary professional practice such as 'what is design?' and 'what is criticism?'. You will also be introduced to a general overview of design history and design theory, sequential structures, research methods and the theories and principles of journalism and criticism.

Stage 2

You will examine, in more depth, the profession of design journalism and criticism exploring the nature of professional practice and the position of design within contemporary debates and the role of criticism. You will consider multicultural perspectives and rhetoric in design and writing as well as examining how new technologies are creating new venues for design journalism and criticism.

Stage 3

You will have the opportunity to develop an agreed, self-initiated Major Project, either a traditional written thesis or one with supporting practical work.

Assessment

Project work, major self-initiated research project and final examination.

Dedication

1 year, full-time.