The course includes advanced studies in the field of strategic design, brand identity and strategic product development. The course is often carried out in collaboration with predetermined company or brand and consists of the following phases:
1. Strategic design seminar (4.5 credits) This course phase includes the introduction to a company, existing products and the analysis of the overall brand impression that these expresses and the present and future market situation. Methods for analysing the brand appearance of products will be introduced through practical exercises, the result of these will be shared through de-briefings and presentations. Most of these activities will be done in groups. This phase ends with the students defining a project relevant to the scope of the course and formulates this in a written design brief.
2. Strategic design project (10.5 credits) This part includes project work focused to explore the possibilities for design and development of new product solutions that conceptually, visual and functionally respects the desired characteristics and brand values defined by the students. This phase ends with a final presentation and the submission of a visual report summarizing the student’s work process during the course.
This course contains occasions that are included in a degree programme at Umeå university and applies only to those of you who are admitted to the programme. You will receive information about application times and what applies to you from your institution.
A Bachelor's degree or equivalent first-cycle qualification comprising of at least 180 ECTS or a corresponding qualification from an internationally recognized university. Specific entry requirements are: 60 ECTS credits in the field of Design. Student must also have passed all previous courses on the Master programme in Advanced Product Design at Umeå Institute of Design or the equivalent. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.
