Design and innovation have a huge impact on society well beyond the creative industries – finding solutions to problems that affect every aspect of our lives. The Open University has pioneered distance education methods in design over the past 5 decades. This work mirrored developments in design research and education started in the late 60s with staff from the University leading the way in developing design as a ‘third discipline’. You can read more about the history of design education at The Open University.
Our current Design qualifications, BDes (Hons) Bachelor of Design and BA/BSc (Honours) Design and Innovation, make use of this extensive knowledge as well as new modes of learning and teaching at a distance, featuring online design studios, knowledge mapping, social networking, and inspiring study materials. Each module has a significant practical component, continuing the shift from teaching design to learning by design.
Explore your options about studying Design with the OU or study our free OpenLearn materials that we have created to give you some insights into studying Design at the OU. If you’d like to connect with, us visit our LinkedIn Group or YouTube Channel.