Curriculum Information

In this module, you will investigate design agencies to begin your understanding of their mission, values, strategies, and commercial practice of design. You will be required to obtain industry insights to better understand the wider context of professional design processes. This module will help you reflect and prepare your own practice for employability-seeking in the design industry once you graduate. You will be introduced to the various kinds of roles that make up a design agency and become familiar with what is expected from each of those roles within professional engagements.

You will be introduced to the professional practice of design professionals, where you will be able to identify freelance, agency, in-house, consultation and specialist roles and responsibilities that exist within commercial design teams. You will gain exposure to the business of design and entrepreneurialism, exploring the significance and importance that design plays within businesses, organisations and charities and the economy.

The module addresses: Professional Practice, team-structures, teamwork, personality profiling, self-reflection, comparison, critical reflection, employment contracts, terms, and conditions, intellectual property, service design, design specialisms, interdisciplinary teams, organisations, decision making, planning, mapping, prioritisation, communication, problem solving skills, research, time keeping, networking and context.

You will be expected to explore the business of design, ranging from contractual agreements to innovative services provided by 21st century practicing professionals. You will be encouraged to collaborate with other students from other courses, possibly those within the subject discipline of business.

You will receive lectures or participate in discussions with staff, alumni, industry professionals, the USW (University of South Wales) (University of South Wales) Careers Team and with your peers