MDC5240 Design research studio 3
Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture
MDC5240 Design research studio 3 is a level 5, 12-credit-point, postgraduate unit from the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, offered in 2026 in Semester 1 and Semester 2 at Caulfield. It needs MDC4502, MDC4110 or MDC4120 and unlocks 2 units.
- Credit points
- 12
- Offered in 2026
- Semester 1, Semester 2
- Caulfield
- Assessment
- No exam
- 1 task
This is the 2026 handbook entry. See the 2027 entry.
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Requisites
Before MDC5240
Corequisites
Pass these before, or take them in the same semester.
Prerequisites
Pass these before you enrol.
After MDC5240
2 units list MDC5240 as a prerequisite or corequisite.
Enrolment rules
You must be enrolled in the Master of Design (F6002).
Overview
In this unit, you will explore advanced design concepts and collaborate to address real-world design challenges. Through hands-on projects, you will apply design research methods, and develop innovative solutions. The unit focuses on helping you understand the social, cultural, and ethical impact of design. You will build skills in critically evaluating your work and be encouraged to engage with topics aligned to the research focus of the Department of Design.
Offerings in 2026
| Teaching period | Campus | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| First semester | Caulfield | On campus |
| Second semester | Caulfield | On campus |
Assessment
- Single Project/FolioProject100%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
Engage with advanced design concepts to effectively contribute in the collaborative interventions that address issues in contemporary design research and practice;
- 2
Apply collaborative design skills to produce innovative solutions to complex design challenges;
- 3
Integrate comprehensive design and research strategies to address contemporary design challenges;
- 4
Work collaboratively to articulate the design production to an advanced level with consideration of the social, cultural and ethical impact of design on diverse stakeholders;
- 5
Analyse and contextualise the role of design research in ethically and sustainably addressing a range of complex societal challenges;
- 6
Demonstrate an ability to communicate and defend your design approach, methodologies and solutions.
Workload and teaching
- Studio activities72 hours
24 hours per week including 6 contact hours plus 18 hours of independent study.
Contacts
- Unit Coordinators
- Mr Dave Trickey
- Chief Examiners
- Mr Dave Trickey
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for MDC5240?
You need MDC4502, MDC4110 or MDC4120 before you enrol; and OHS1000 before or alongside it. Enrolment rules also apply.
What can I take after MDC5240?
MDC5240 is a prerequisite or corequisite for 2 units, including MDC5340 and TAD5500.
When is MDC5240 offered?
In 2026, MDC5240 runs in Semester 1 and Semester 2 at Caulfield.
Does MDC5240 have an exam?
No. MDC5240 has 1 assessment task and no exam.