BA (Hons) Digital Technology (Design)

Traditional beliefs about the arts are breaking down: creatives need technology just as much as technology needs creativity – and this is where you come in.

Grounded in a social, inclusive, and politically aware context, on BA (Hons) Digital Technology (Design), you'll not only access the very latest in digital technologies but also understand the role that these, and future technologies, play in the creative industries, our lives and global society.

You'll work alongside BA (Hons) Sustainable Design, as well as others in the School of Design and Architecture to develop your practical knowledge of creative technologies through emerging technologies. You'll draw on expertise from across the university and the state-of-the-art Innovation Studio, exploring evolving disciplines like AI, projection mapping, digital scanning, VR, AR, responsive animatronics and physical interactive engagement.

You'll learn though a practical, problem-based approach to the consideration of real-world issues that invite you to develop technology-based solutions. Adoption of more-than-human design principles grounded in a strong multi-disciplinary, ethical, and socially responsible learning environment will enable you to develop your own understanding of the role of, and relationship between, technology, society, and culture.

If you're less experienced in this field, no need to worry – our BA (Hons) Digital Technology (Design) course has been designed from the ground up to be inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of educational background.

BA (Hons) Digital Technology (Design) prepares you for a wide range of careers in the digital and creative industries, with a specific focus on sustainability, climate futures, and ethics of technology. Graduates of this course will possess a strong foundation in creative problem-solving, technical expertise in coding and prototyping, and a critical understanding of the societal implications of technology, including its impact on the environment.

Whether pursuing career options such as creative technologists, interaction designers, digital artists, or entrepreneurs, you'll be equipped to contribute to sustainable and ethical practices in the digital landscape, making a positive impact on the future of our planet.

All undergraduate courses at AUB offer an optional placement year, to be taken between your second and third years of study.

If you’re unsure about this optional placement, you don’t need to decide now. Once you’re here and studying with us, the course team will discuss the placement options with you, so when the time comes, you can make a decision that’s right for you.

In the first year, you'll establish a strong foundation in creative technology, while exploring its integral relationship with sustainability, climate futures, and ethics; investigating the convergence of creativity, design, and technology, gaining insights into both historical and contemporary perspectives. Through design thinking and creative problem-solving, you'll learn to utilise fundamental coding as a tool to develop interactive systems that materialise data-driven interventions. These interventions will encompass more-than-human interaction and also address environmental impact and ethical considerations, fostering a holistic approach to creative outcomes.

Units:

• Introduction to Creative Technologies
• Introduction to Coding
• Interaction Design and Graduate Futures I

The second year builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in the first year, which'll include building on basic coding through the design of interactive systems, approaches to digital fabrication, and the ongoing understanding of the role of technologies in culture and society.

You'll advance their conceptual understanding of creative technologies, such as digital storytelling and narrative design, with a specific focus on themes of sustainability and climate change.

The course will encourage you to start exploring evolving technologies, such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) and analyse your potential applications in addressing environmental and social challenges. The ethical understanding of technology-designed experiences will be discussed to ensure responsible and sustainable use.

At the end of second year, there'll be the option of progressing straight into third year, or taking an extended work placement and progressing on your return.

Units:

• Advanced Creative Technology Concepts
• Physical Digital Interaction
• Speculative and Graduate Futures II

The third year of the course consists of units focused on advanced creative coding and programming, with an emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices. You'll explore programming languages and frameworks within the context of their individual career aspirations.

In addition to the practical units, you'll also undertake a dissertation that encourages research on topics related to their individual areas of interest. You'll be encouraged to explore real-world outcomes that embody sustainable principles and ethical considerations.

This research journey, documented through a logbook and data journal, will delve into the ethical dimensions of technology and its potential impact on society and the environment.

Finally, you'll complete your Final Major Project, providing an opportunity to showcase all the skills and knowledge gained in developing innovative solutions that contribute to sustainability, address climate futures, and adhere to ethical guidelines.

Units:

• Creative Coding and Programming
• Dissertation
• Final Major Project and Graduate Futures III

Our BA (Hons) Digital Technology (Design) course is planned to include educational visits. During the year, at least one excursion to London or another UK cultural hub is available.

Due to Bournemouth's proximity to London, excursions can easily be planned to London’s art galleries and museums to supplement academic work. Professional progress as practitioners depends on primary research; trips give you confidence, promote independence, and present opportunities for your future professional and personal development.

Any additional trip fees are disclosed before the visit.

Visiting tutors play a key role in the BA (Hons) Digital Technology (Design) course, as they bring diverse perspectives and unique skill sets, enriching the learning experience and fostering a deeper understanding of the standards and expectations of the creative industries. Industry professionals provide invaluable insights into the creative industry, sharing their expertise and experiences. They conduct workshops, lectures, and participate in critiquing your work, offering constructive feedback from both an education and industry perspective. Their presence can also offer you the opportunity to network and learn about potential career paths, industry trends, and professional practices.