Master of Arts in Design Research
Develop a unique design research methodology to address self-defined questions through interdisciplinary practice and storytelling.
Best for:Best for creative professionals and researchers seeking to merge design practice with rigorous research, storytelling, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Overview
The Master of Arts in Design Research at the Willem de Kooning Academy offers a two-year programme where students explore and answer self-defined design questions through a blend of research, storytelling, and practical application. This programme emphasizes developing a personal design research methodology, engaging with diverse methods, and contributing to new practices in design and society. Students work on their own research projects, build professional networks, and graduate with a design portfolio, a publication, and a clear professional vision. The programme is taught in English, with flexibility for individual Dutch-language work.
What you'll do
- Develop and refine a personal design research methodology to address self-defined questions.
- Conduct research through workshops, lectures, and coaching sessions focused on design research, storytelling, and new practices.
- Apply research methods to develop a design project that contributes to new practices in design and society.
- Reflect critically on research findings and communicate them through storytelling.
- Collaborate with participants and stakeholders to contextualize and position your design work.
- Graduate with a design portfolio, a publication, and a clear professional vision.
- Engage in interdisciplinary projects that explore relevant social and design issues.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Design or a related field (or equivalent).
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA) in Design Research
Language: English proficiency (programme taught in English).
Instruction: English (with individual flexibility for Dutch).
- Ability to conduct independent design research.
- Experience with interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Strong storytelling and communication skills.
- Creativity and innovation in design practice.
- Open to applicants from the Netherlands and within the EU.
- No specific age or residency restrictions beyond EU/EEA eligibility.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
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- Teaching language
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- Taught / research mode
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- Study mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Application instructions
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- Tuition
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- Funding
- Not confirmed by the source
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-05-01
Applicants must submit their application through the official Willem de Kooning Academy portal. The application process includes an assessment of the applicant’s design research proposal and background. Ensure all required documents are submitted by the deadline.
- CV or resume
- Motivation letter or personal statement
- Portfolio showcasing design work
- Transcripts of previous academic degrees
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.