diversity of the design profession. In the third year, students
determine their interest areas and can focus more on an area
of specialisation. Design projects are placed in a wider context,
enabling students to transition into and direct their studies at
the master’s level.
All courses at the Foundation level are mandatory. However,
throughout their Foundation studies, students may increasingly
orient their projects toward an area of specialisation, particu-
larly in the latter part of their studies at the Foundation level.
master
The two-year curriculum at the master level is designed pri-
marily for students who have successfully completed the Foun-
dation level. However, students from other design schools are
also eligible to apply. At this level all students are expected to
have basic tools and a general understanding of design methods,
approaches and mind-sets.
The master level courses allow the students to specialise in one
of three areas: Industrial Design, Interaction Design, or Service
Design, or embark on a more personal hybrid blend of the three.
Students have an option of working with a Systems-Oriented
Design approach to their specialised or hybrid area of study.
The first year consists of courses and projects in the chosen
specialisation(s). In the second year students dedicate the first
semester to their area of specialisation or join interdiscipli-
nary work under a Systems Oriented Design umbrella. Parallel
with this they begin narrowing the theme of and planning their
Diploma project. The last semester is dedicated to the Diploma
project. This project may be done in collaboration with exter-
nal companies or organisations or connected with research
and development at the Centre for Design Research within the
Institute. After completion, all students are equipped to start
a professional design career or to pursue academic research.
AHO WORKS STUDIES 2012-2013
Design Studies
Programme
