Masters of Design (MDes) in Interior Design

The Glasgow School of Art

Programme Overview

Interior Design historically occurred in a hinterland loosely occupied by architects, shopfitters and decorators. It has only relatively recently begun to assert itself as a discreet profession, with trained practitioners and informed clients. As the practice has matured, the UK has become firmly established as one of its international centres, for both the practice, study and critique of the subject.

The MDes in Interior Design is a logical extension of this context. It operates a subject-centred approach and aims to create advanced practitioners by acting as a bridge between the delineated and the uncharted. It provides the opportunity for deep exploration free from the confines of practice. It encourages investigation into emerging aspects of the discipline where carefully directed research within these areas has led some graduates to further investigation at PhD level.

The programme is a one-year taught experience, over the course of which students develop a reflective portfolio of work to a professional standard. Emphasis is placed on the exploration of fundamental issues facing the subject, the value of appropriate levels of technological intervention, and an understanding of the importance of disciplinary autonomy as well as inter-disciplinary dialogue.

Interior Design at both undergraduate and postgraduate level at GSA takes place in a Design School context within a Small Specialist Institution (SSI) which is also an Art School, it seeks to use speculation and critique as a tool to enhance the creation of high quality interior design.

Content is delivered by a wide range of practitioners with experience across key subject areas. Staff contributing to the programme combine practice, pedagogy and broad-ranging research interests and, usefully, the PG and UG studios are adjacent to each other which affords participation in mutually beneficial events. Students will also achieve PgCert and PgDip exit awards during this course.