A PhD in Design?

I just started to get use to the idea of having a Masters in design. I think research is a very important part of our field. As designers we have to think of different ways to present an idea. Sometimes an idea is presented to us that have been used the same way day in and day out. But designers have to use research to refresh an idea and make it appear new and different. These techniques are things that are taught to us at the Masters level. Research strategies is the foundation of our profession without it where would we be as designers. Research is the only way to show clients what we have done is the correct direction for a project.

I also believe business’ will look at education and experience over someone who has a PhD and no experience. If someone wants to teach a PhD is something that would be useful but if someone is working for an agency or in the corporate world experience will be more powerful.

I do believe designers should have to take classes every two years in order to get certified in the profession. Designers have to stay update with different research techniques. This is something that a lot of professions do. This type of certification would keep designers up to date with research strategies and software.

Designers should always be looking for a new challenge and this would be the great challenge. I believe if your career goal is to teach at the university level a PhD is the path for you.