Digital Design - BSc (Hons)

Are you excited by design and the creative possibilities of new technology? Digital Design at Kent combines both, allowing you to solve design challenges whilst gaining expertise to work in the creative industries.

You'll take a practical and theoretical approach to digital design, allowing you to design and build interactive products and services of the future whilst equipping you with skills sought after by employers.

Reasons to study Digital Design at Kent

Our alumni have worked on films such as The Lion King and The Avengers
We teach with industry standard software, which is required by the biggest employers across the industry.
Experiment with cutting edge technology to create life-like experiences using virtual and augmented realities
You can attend events with specialist industry guest speakers, giving you access to a professional network before you graduate
Discover how digital design is utilised in industries such as education, medicine, psychology, engineering, and many others.
Take a year in industry or a year abroad, you’ll gain invaluable experience and further develop your creative skills.

What you'll learn

Creativity is at the heart of our course. You develop your design and technical skills allowing you to showcase your creativity. Using the latest technology, you can work with a broad range of design assets and immersive technologies including audio, still and moving image, 3D, and interactive interfaces; creating new experiences for audiences, while setting yourself up for an exciting and fulfilling career in the creative industries.

In your final year you undertake a major project based on your own interests and career aspirations. This could be an interactive or immersive experience, 3D project, or web-based application

Year in industry

It is possible to take this course with a year in industry. For details, see Digital Design with a Year in Industry.

Year abroad

It is possible to take this course with a year abroad. For details, see Digital Design with a Year Abroad.

Entry requirements

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications. All applications are assessed on an individual basis but some of our typical requirements are listed below. Students offering qualifications not listed are welcome to contact our Admissions Team for further advice. Please also see our general entry requirements.

A level

BBB
Access to HE Diploma

The University welcomes applications from Access to Higher Education Diploma candidates for consideration. A typical offer may require you to obtain a proportion of Level 3 credits in relevant subjects at merit grade or above.
BTEC Nationals

Distinction, Merit, Merit
International Baccalaureate

30 points overall or 15 points at HL
International Foundation Programme

Pass all components of the University of Kent International Foundation Programme with a 50% overall average (plus 50% in LZ013 Maths and Statistics if you do not hold GCSE Maths at 4/C or equivalent).
T level

The University will consider applicants holding T level qualifications in subjects closely aligned to the course.
Apply now

International students

If you are an international student, visit our International Student website for further information about entry requirements for your country, including details of the International Foundation Programmes. Please note that international fee-paying students who require a Student visa cannot undertake a part-time programme due to visa restrictions.

Please note that meeting the typical offer/minimum requirement does not guarantee that you will receive an offer.

English Language Requirements

Please see our English language entry requirements web page.

Please note that if you do not meet our English language requirements, we offer a number of 'pre-sessional' courses in English for Academic Purposes. You attend these courses before starting your degree programme.

Course structure

Duration: 3 years full-time

Modules

The following modules are indicative of those offered on this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.

Stage 1

Compulsory modules currently include

This module provides an introduction to human-computer interaction. Fundamental aspects of human physiology and psychology are introduced and key features of interaction and common interaction styles delineated. A variety of analysis and design methods are introduced (e.g. GOMS. heuristic evaluation, user-centred and contextual design techniques). Throughout the course, the quality of design and the need for a professional, integrated and user-centred approach to interface development is emphasised. Rapid and low-fidelity prototyping feature as one aspect of this.

Find out more about COMP3280

This module introduces design thinking; how design principles are embedded everywhere: from electronic devices to objects, commercial products, visual and audio communication, advertising (digital / print), online systems, services, and built environments.

Considering current and historical design approaches, students will learn about design processes as they apply to different domains of design (e.g. audio-visual, graphic, 3D, systems, interaction, electronic devices) and to evaluate the context for the design and the stakeholders that engage with the designed artefact.

Indicative topics include: basic design concepts, current and future trends, design in digital mediated society, speculative design, design for humans/non-humans/things.

Find out more about DIGM3160

This module introduces the stages of the workflow of 3D rigging and animation to familiarise students with what is involved in production. Weekly module workshops introduce an array of industry-standard applications and the techniques necessary for production, resulting in a practical understanding of the entire process. Indicative topics include; inverse kinematics, forward kinematics, joints system, Maya Embedded Language (MEL), scripting for rigging, skinning, mechanical rigging, humanoid mechanical rigging, character rigging, facial rigging, animal rigging, modelling for rigged bodies.

Find out more about DIGM3170

This practice-based module introduces key principles of Digital Content Creation. Students will learn to conceptualise design problems and produce work using industry-standard software tools. Indicative topics include: audio and visual (still and moving) content creation, use of colour and typography, design fundamentals.

Find out more about DIGM3250

This module introduces you to the theory, principles and practice behind designing Virtual Environments and enables you to create a real-time application demonstrating the acquired core skills. The module will cover specific production skills needed for the development of assets for various applications, programming concepts for navigating and interacting in Virtual Environments, AI, user interfaces. Theory is followed by practical workshops in different aspects of Virtual Environment design, culminating in project.

Find out more about DIGM3260

This is a practical module which covers the steps for integrating computer-generated elements. Each workshop includes hands-on training in 3D design and compositing software. The module covers 3D modelling and texturing as well as digital camera and lighting techniques. The module introduces the basic 3D design production techniques using the appropriate industry-standard software.

Find out more about DIGM3400

This undergraduate module introduces the practical techniques for creating interactive visual display using Processing, a Java-based IDE. We will also develop interesting tangible interfaces using Arduino IDE, with a range of sensors and actuators. Students will learn to manipulate images, create realistic motions, use motion sensing and speech recognition, in a series of lectures and workshops.

Find out more about DIGM5420

The module provides an introduction to the basic knowledge required to understand, design and write computer programs and the basic principles underlying the process of Software Engineering. No previous programming experience is assumed and the module proceeds via a sequence of lectures supported by simple exercises designed to give practical experience of the concepts introduced in the lectures.

Find out more about EENG3130

Stage 2

Compulsory modules currently include

This module introduces you to the theory, principles and practice behind virtual reality. Indicative topics include: perception and action in virtual environments, presence and immersion concepts, 3D interaction techniques, virtual reality systems, human factors in virtual reality, design principles for virtual environments, application domains for virtual reality. Theory is followed by programming workshops where you will be introduced to different software development kits. You will apply the acquired theoretical and practical knowledge in building a substantial project.

Find out more about DIGM5090

This module introduces the techniques required to design and develop interactive online websites, using HTML5/CSS/JavaScript, and the software tools which support their implementation. Indicative topics include: information architecture, responsive design, web accessibility, web frameworks and website usability testing.

Find out more about DIGM5100

This module introduces you to key aspects of media production building on the conceptual and critical skill you developed in the first year (digital asset creation, media analysis, programming). To achieve this, you will develop and produce interactive solutions, learn to work with media ecologies and apply creative thinking.

Find out more about DIGM5110

This module introduces the 3D Design pipeline using industry-standard software packages.Each technical workshop session includes hands-on training in 3D Design and compositing software. Practical sessions cover 3D modelling, texturing, lighting, animation and compositing.

Find out more about DIGM5320

The module is concerned with undertaking a substantial digital media project against time and resource constraints. Topics include: intellectual property rights, privacy, data protection, research methods, project planning and management, working in teams. This module prepares students for the demands of the final year project.

Find out more about DIGM5760

Introduction to entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation, circular design; Team building and effective team collaboration; New technology development, technology lifecycle, technology readiness level (TRL); Financial management of large-scale projects and new ventures, sources of financing; Protecting and securing intellectual properties (IPs); Business planning tools for a new technology and start-up; Prototyping and commercialising a new technology and mitigate market risks.

Find out more about EENG5770

Stage 3

Compulsory modules currently include

More information to follow.

Optional modules may include

The module introduces to students the importance of marketing in competitive and dynamic environments.

This module is designed to provide students across the university with access to knowledge, skill development and training in the field of entrepreneurship with a special emphasis on developing a business plan in order to exploit identified opportunities. Hence, the module will be of value for students who aspire to establishing their own business and/or introducing innovation through new product, service, process, project or business development in an established organisation. The module complements students' final year projects in Computing, Law, Biosciences, Electronics, Multimedia, and Drama etc.

This module introduces you to the principles and practice of video game design and development. Indicative topics include: game physics, AI, level design, player behaviour and cognition, game rules and mechanics, user interfaces, novel sensor devices, as well as programming concepts for gaming. Theory is followed by practical workshops in game development, culminating in a substantial project.

In taking this module, you will have the opportunity to become a future creator, shaping and changing the landscape of how we tell stories. Whether through multi-platform storytelling, alternate reality games, immersive theatre, locked room experiences, interactive art and gallery exhibitions, virtual and enhanced (augmented, integrated, mixed) realities, cross-media marketing campaigns, or hybrid projects, the possibilities for interactive and immersive narratives are constantly growing and developing, as audiences, readers and users begin to expect more from the ways in which stories are told. This module explores how interactive and immersive fictions enable and empower us to rethink and reshape how stories are told within a range of different contexts. In an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment, students will develop creative skills such as how to build immersive imaginary worlds; how to craft story archaeologies; and how to incorporate user interactivity into different forms of fiction, in order to create experiences that have emotional and psychological value. We will examine questions such as: what makes a meaningful interactive or immersive story? How do interactive and immersive forms change the way we think about terms like narrative and reader? What influences a person's experience of an immersive or interactive story? And what do current, past and future technologies make possible for the telling of stories? To take the module, students need only have an interest in the craft of storytelling and a vivid imagination; previous experience of gaming or programming may be useful but is not essential. With an emphasis on practical creative work and collaborative learning, this module will interest students from a range of backgrounds, including creative writing, game design, arts, marketing and theatre.

The digital sphere has given voice and meeting spaces to communities and activist groups, enabling social action, art and change. It has also been used by reactionaries, nationalists and the far-right groups to amplify hate filled messages. Analysing platforms that may include Facebook, Twitter, Uber and Wikipedia, the module engages with concepts such as participatory and collaborative culture, sharing economies, democracy and surveillance. Students will engage in sourcing, analysing and critiquing social media content by way of a Digital Portfolio. This work will be contextualised by an essay that situates students' multimedia exercises within key debates in online culture. To facilitate this, lectures and seminars will explore various case studies - from mainstream politicians’ use of social media in campaigning, to the intensification of hate speech in the cyber sphere, to the ethics of using unpaid journalists and the economy of sharing - in order to encourage students to engage critically with the relationship between politics, economics, personal expression and art making practices in the digital age.

Optional modules are indicative only and updated yearly depending on availability.

Fees

The 2023/24 annual tuition fees for this course are:

Home full-time £9,250
EU full-time £16,400
International full-time £21,900

For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.

For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.*

Your fee status

The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.

Additional costs

Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.

Funding

Scholarships

We have a range of subject-specific awards and scholarships for academic, sporting and musical achievement.

Search scholarships

University funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details.

Government funding

You may be eligible for government finance to help pay for the costs of studying. See the Government's student finance website.

Scholarships

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence.

The scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages.

The scholarship is also extended to those who achieve AAB at A level (or specified equivalents) where one of the subjects is either mathematics or a modern foreign language. Please review the eligibility criteria.

Teaching and assessment

Most modules consist of a mix of lectures, seminars, practical work, computer sessions and private study. The workstations in our computer suites are equipped with current industry-standard software.

All modules contain design and project work, and are continuously assessed. The specialist project at Stage 3 is assessed by a written report, poster, a critique and, of course, the outcome of the project itself. Both Stage 2 and 3 marks count towards your degree result.

The industrial placement year is assessed by a written report, poster, and industrial assessment that together count as 10% of your overall degree result.

The year abroad is assessed on a pass or fail basis.

Our students have 24-hour access to our extensive air-conditioned computer suites and are able to take advantage of a dedicated production studio, with green-screen, VR suite and makerspace.

Contact hours

For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours. The precise breakdown of hours will be subject dependent and will vary according to modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.

Methods of assessment will vary according to subject specialism and individual modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.

Programme aims

The course aims to:

provide a multidisciplinary education for students who seek professional careers in the field of digital design
produce graduates who have an informed, critical and creative approach to understanding digital design and its applications in contemporary society
prepare students to meet the challenges of a broad and rapidly changing field while providing them with a wide choice of careers
provide proper academic guidance and welfare support for all students
create an atmosphere of co-operation and partnership between staff and students, and offer the students an environment where they can develop their potential

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

You gain knowledge and understanding of:

the audio, visual and verbal conventions through which sounds, images and words take meaning
fundamental concepts of IT and software engineering
the creative processes involved in visual design
the contextual, historical and conceptual dimensions of the discipline
audio, video and film technology, including digital television and DVD
the multimedia authoring process
fundamentals of 3D modelling and animation
key production processes and professional practices relevant to the multimedia industry
the legal, ethical and regulatory frameworks which affect the development of multimedia applications
the role of technology in terms of multimedia production, access and use.

Intellectual skills

You develop the following intellectual skills:

examining multimedia applications critically with appropriate reference to their social and cultural contexts and diversity of contemporary society
awareness that technologies are rapidly changing and that you should expect to update your knowledge throughout your working life
awareness of the objectives, constraints and conditions of a commercial environment, including financial and time constraints
designing and developing software-based on an analysis of system requirements
researching and integrating information and data from a variety of sources for essays, projects and multimedia applications
analysis of a problem and development of a solution based on technical, aesthetic and economic factors
consideration and evaluation of your own work in a reflexive manner with reference to academic and professional issues
analysis, interpretation and exercising critical judgement in the understanding and evaluation of multimedia applications

Subject-specific skills

You develop the following subject-specific skills:

ability to use scripting and programming languages in the implementation of interactive applications
ability to demonstrate creative and technical skills in design
ability to develop specific proficiencies in utilising a range of multimedia design tools including 3D modelling, video editing, image manipulating and multimedia authoring
ability to integrate text, graphics and time-based elements to produce effective design solutions
ability to initiate, develop and realise distinctive and creative applications which demonstrate the effective manipulation of digital assets
ability to utilise a range of research skills, for example, research into potential audiences and markets, as a production tool
ability to prepare technical reports and presentations
ability to apply management techniques to the planning, resource allocations and execution of a design project

Transferable skills

You develop the following transferable skills:

ability to generate, analyse, present and interpret data
use of information and communications technology
personal and interpersonal skills, teamworking
ability to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences and/or using a variety of methods
ability for working in flexible, creative and independent ways and for critical thinking, reasoning and reflection
ability to organise and manage time and resources within an individual project and a group project.

Independent rankings

Art and Design at Kent was ranked 3rd for research quality in The Complete University Guide 2023.

Art and Design at Kent was ranked 9th for graduate prospects in The Complete University Guide 2023.

Careers

Graduate destinations

Digital Design prepares you for careers in areas such as:

3D production and animation
digital marketing
user experience design
web design and development.

Help finding a job

Employers are always keen to employ graduates with knowledge of the work environment and some students receive job offers from their placement company.

The University also has an award-winning Careers and Employability Service which can give you advice on how to:

apply for jobs
write a good CV
perform well in interviews.

Career-enhancing skills

Studying on this degree not only equips you with an in-depth understanding of some of the most exciting technologies of the 21st century, it also helps you to develop useful workplace skills such as:

planning and organisation
leadership
effective communication.

You can gain extra skills by signing up for one of our Kent Extra activities, such as learning a language or volunteering.

Apply for Digital Design - BSc (Hons)

If you are from the UK or Ireland, you must apply for this course through UCAS. If you are not from the UK or Ireland, you can apply through UCAS or directly on our website if you have never used UCAS and you do not intend to use UCAS in the future.

Find out more about how to apply

All applicants

Apply through UCAS

International applicants

Apply now to Kent

Contact us

United Kingdom/EU enquiries

Enquire online for full-time study

T: +44 (0)1227 768896

International student enquiries

Enquire online

T: +44 (0)1227 823254
E: internationalstudent@kent.ac.uk

School website

School of Engineering

Discover Uni is designed to support prospective students in deciding whether, where and what to study. The site replaces Unistats from September 2019.

Discover Uni is jointly owned by the Office for Students, the Department for the Economy Northern Ireland, the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales and the Scottish Funding Council.

It includes:

Information and guidance about higher education
Information about courses
Information about providers

Find out more about the Unistats dataset on the Higher Education Statistics Agency website.

The University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that the information contained in its publicity materials is fair and accurate and to provide educational services as described. However, the courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Full details of our terms and conditions can be found at: https://www.kent.ac.uk/terms-and-conditions

*Where fees are regulated (such as by the Department for Education or Research Council UK) permitted increases are normally inflationary and the University therefore reserves the right to increase tuition fees by inflation (RPI excluding mortgage interest payments) as permitted by law or Government policy in the second and subsequent years of your course. If we intend to exercise this right to increase tuition fees, we will let you know by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which we intend to exercise that right.

If, in the future, the increases to regulated fees permitted by law or government policy exceed the rate of inflation, we reserve the right to increase fees to the maximum permitted level. If we intend to exercise this extended right to increase tuition fees, we will let you know by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which we intend to exercise that right.

Digital Design - BSc (Hons)

Next steps

Overview

Reasons to study Digital Design at Kent

What you'll learn

Year in industry

Year abroad

Featured video

Entry requirements

A level

medal-empty Access to HE Diploma

medal-empty BTEC Nationals

medal-empty International Baccalaureate

medal-empty International Foundation Programme

medal-empty T level

International students

English Language Requirements

Form

Course structure

Modules

Fees

Your fee status

Additional costs

Funding

trophy Scholarships

University funding

Government funding

Scholarships

General scholarships

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

Teaching and assessment

Contact hours

Programme aims

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

Intellectual skills

Subject-specific skills

Transferable skills

Independent rankings

Careers

Graduate destinations

Help finding a job

Career-enhancing skills

Apply for Digital Design - BSc (Hons)

All applicants

International applicants

Contact us

United Kingdom/EU enquiries

International student enquiries

School website

Discover Uni information

Access to HE Diploma

BTEC Nationals

International Baccalaureate

International Foundation Programme

T level

Scholarships