MSc in Design & Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Polytechnic University of Milan

Program Overview

The MSc in Design & Engineering at Politecnico di Milano, Italy, focuses on integrating industrial design, mechanical engineering, and materials engineering to develop innovative products. This two-year, full-time programme is taught in English at the Milano Bovisa campus. It prepares students to manage the complete product development process, from the initial concept and material selection to detailed design, prototyping, and preparation for industrial manufacturing. Sustainability is also an important consideration, with attention to the environmental, social, and economic impacts of product design and production.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Build foundational knowledge in design theory and practice, materials selection, design and manufacturing, and mechanical design. Students develop an understanding of how design principles, material properties, engineering methods, and manufacturing requirements influence product development.

Year 2: Develop advanced skills in product engineering, detailed design, virtual and physical prototyping, and production-related documentation. Design studios allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical product development challenges. The programme also includes a compulsory internship, which may be undertaken in a company, organisation, professional studio, or within the university.

Focus Areas: Industrial Product Design, Design Engineering, Mechanical Engineering for Product Development, Materials Selection, Design and Manufacturing, Virtual Prototyping, Physical Prototyping, Product Innovation, Sustainable Design, Industrial Production Processes.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates develop the ability to integrate design and engineering principles, evaluate materials for specific applications, create and refine product concepts, use digital design and prototyping methods, assess manufacturing feasibility, and prepare technical documentation for industrial production. They also gain an understanding of how production technologies influence design decisions and product performance.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The programme awards an Italian Laurea Magistrale equivalent to a Master of Science and belongs to the LM-12 Design degree classification. This is an academic degree in design rather than a professional engineering licence.

Reputation (Employability): The programme combines design education with engineering and materials expertise. Graduates can pursue opportunities in industrial product development, manufacturing, prototyping, design consultancy, and product innovation across sectors such as furniture, lighting, consumer electronics, automotive products, textiles, packaging, and biomedical devices.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the Polytechnic University of Milan, the MSc in Design & Engineering program is designed to immerse students in a hands-on learning environment that bridges theory with real-world application. Students gain practical skills through a variety of innovative projects, collaborative work, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The university emphasizes experiential learning, ensuring that students not only understand design principles but also apply them in practical settings.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MSc in Design & Engineering program:

- Laboratories and Workshops: Students have access to specialized labs equipped with advanced tools for prototyping, testing, and fabrication, including the FabLab and the Design Lab.

- Software Proficiency: The program includes training in industry-standard software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite, enabling students to create professional-grade designs and simulations.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, allowing students to work in teams to solve real-world design challenges, fostering teamwork and communication skills.

- Internships: The program encourages internships with leading companies in the design and engineering sectors, providing students with invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities.

- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to design studios, manufacturing plants, and exhibitions, offering insights into the latest trends and practices in the industry.

- Research Institutes: The university collaborates with various research institutes, allowing students to engage in cutting-edge research projects that contribute to their learning and professional development.

- Libraries and Resources: The university boasts extensive libraries and digital resources, providing students with access to a wealth of information and research materials relevant to their studies.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSc in Design & Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Milan equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in various dynamic roles within the design and engineering sectors. Alumni often find themselves in positions such as Product Designer, Design Engineer, and Innovation Manager, where they can leverage their creativity and technical expertise to drive impactful projects.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: The university offers dedicated career services, including personalized career counseling, workshops on resume writing and interview preparation, and access to job fairs that connect students with leading companies in the design and engineering fields.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of the MSc in Design & Engineering enjoy impressive employment rates, with over 90% securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates is around €35,000 to €45,000 per year, depending on the role and industry.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The Polytechnic University of Milan has established strong partnerships with industry leaders such as Fiat, Pirelli, and Siemens, providing students with opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, and networking events that enhance their employability.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that the degree holds significant value in the job market and meets international standards.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges, with many going on to lead innovative projects and contribute to advancements in technology and design.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MSc in Design & Engineering, students have the option to pursue a PhD in related fields, allowing them to delve deeper into research and contribute to academic advancements. Additionally, graduates can explore specialized postgraduate courses or certifications that enhance their expertise and career prospects in niche areas of design and engineering.