Application information and FAQ

We encourage applications from individuals with undergraduate degrees in the fields listed below or related areas for our MRes Design Engineering Research.

The class is typically made up of a fairly even mix of students coming directly from undergraduate studies and those with experience working in industry. This diverse blend of academic backgrounds and professional experience enriches the learning environment, fostering a collaborative approach to problem-solving and innovation across different sectors.

The key difference between the MSc in Design Engineering and the MSc Design with Behaviour Science lies in their focus and approach to design.

The MSc in Design Engineering is highly technical, emphasizing advanced engineering skills, innovation, and product development. It focuses on equipping students with design, manufacturing, and systems engineering skills, integrating technology with creative design. This programme is ideal for students interested in developing practical engineering solutions and working with cutting-edge design tools and technologies to create innovative products.

In contrast, the MSc Design with Behaviour Science blends design with behavioural science principles, focusing on creating solutions that influence positive behavioural change. This programme combines design thinking with insights from psychology and behavioural economics sciences, preparing students to design products, services, and interventions aimed at improving user behaviour and addressing social challenges. It is suited for those interested in the human-centred aspects of design, particularly in creating impactful change through behaviour-focused design solutions.

In summary, while both programmes incorporate elements of design and innovation, the MSc in Design Engineering is more technically oriented towards engineering and product development, whereas the MSc Design with Behaviour Science emphasises behavioural insights to drive change through design.

The MRes in Design Engineering Research is open to applicants with a strong academic background in engineering, design, or related technical fields. While prior research experience is not a strict requirement, applicants should demonstrate an interest in research and an ability to engage in independent design engineering projects. Some exposure to research through academic projects, internships, or professional work is beneficial. The programme is ideal for those looking to pursue a career in research or continue their studies with a PhD. A strong portfolio and clear research interests will help strengthen the application.

As part of the application process for the MSc in Design Engineering, you are required to submit a portfolio. This portfolio should highlight your design projects, showcasing your proficiency with various technologies, methods, and design approaches. It is an opportunity to demonstrate your creative and technical skills, as well as your ability to address real-world design challenges. The portfolio must be submitted in PDF format and can include clickable links to an online portfolio or videos of project outcomes, if applicable.

For other postgraduate programmes at the Dyson School of Design Engineering, such as the MSc in Cleantech Innovation (in collaboration with the Grantham Institute), the MSc in Design with Behaviour Science, and the MRes in Design Engineering Research, a portfolio is not required. These programmes have distinct focus areas and entry requirements.

For comprehensive details about the MSc Design Engineering programme, including portfolio guidelines and application criteria, please visit the official webpage:MSc Design Engineering.

 A strong portfolio should highlight creativity, problem-solving ability, and technical understanding. The inclusion of well-documented projects that showcase the design process—from ideation to execution—is highly valued. Projects that demonstrate innovation, hands-on prototyping, user-centric design, and interdisciplinary thinking are especially impactful. This could range from sketches to finished prototypes, as long as they provide insight into the applicant's approach to solving design and engineering challenges. While creativity is essential, the programme places equal emphasis on technical problem-solving. Portfolios should ideally balance innovative design ideas with practical technical implementation. Demonstrating how creative solutions meet functional requirements or constraints is critical.

Applicants will be invited to an interview after the round has closed, with notifications sent one week in advance.

You can prepare for the interview by reviewing our prospectus pages on the programmes. Additionally, we provide helpful information, including thought-provoking questions, to support your success in the interview.

We typically send out all offers just before the round closes, though we may make exceptions for extraordinary candidates.

No, applicants can only apply once per academic year, but can select two different programme primary and secondary choice.

No, lower academic offers are not made for applicants with less than a First Class undergraduate degree. We may offer to applicants with 2:1  with two or more years of experience. We place a strong emphasis on academic achievement.

Yes, we do offer deferrals to the next academic year on a case-by-case basis. However, if you do not intend to join the upcoming academic year, please apply accordingly.

The department does not currently offer any department-specific scholarships. However, Design Engineering PGT students are eligible to apply for a range of external and College-funded scholarships, and several students have successfully secured these in the past.

Eligible scholarships include:

• Said Foundation Scholarship

• COLFUTURO & Imperial College London Joint Graduate Loan-Scholarship

• GREAT – Imperial College London Scholarship

• Presidential Scholarship for Students of Black Heritage (Postgraduate)

• Grundy Educational Trust

• Sanctuary Scholarship – Postgraduate

• The Satinder Kaur and Dr Narinder Singh Kapany Scholarship

• Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851 – Industrial Design Studentships

• TEV UK–Imperial Scholarship

• CMA CGM Excellence Fund for Education Scholarships

• Bseisu–Imperial College London Scholarship / Chevening–Bseisu Scholarship

• Women in STEM Scholarships

• India Future Leaders Scholarship

• Anne Seagrim Accommodation Scholarship

• Master’s Scholarship Supporting Disabled Students

Students are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria for each opportunity and apply where appropriate.

We also recommend reviewing the Imperial scholarship tracker as new scholarships are added on routine basis.