Master of Design (Strategic Design)

About the course

The Master of Design (Strategic Design) builds advanced capability in strategic design for experienced designers and professionals seeking a design qualification. You’ll apply design methodologies and lateral thinking to develop ethical, sustainable products and services and lead change across diverse contexts such as health, social services, manufacturing and infrastructure. The course emphasises industry engagement through projects and guest input at QUT’s Kelvin Grove campus in a master’s-level design discipline.

Career outcome

Graduates are prepared to lead strategic design initiatives and deliver human-centred, sustainable solutions in organisations across government, industry and community sectors. Career pathways may include strategic designer, design strategist, service designer, innovation or transformation lead, design researcher, and roles supporting product/service development and social impact programs. This master’s qualification supports progression into senior design leadership roles within the strategic design discipline.

Living Costs in Brisbane**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 17 - 23	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,467 - 1,940	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,073 - 1,419
Transportation (Daily) A$ 7 - 8	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 237 - 314

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)