Edinburgh Napier University is launching a new masters degree in creative lighting design.
The course, which will begin in September 2011, will be design led and will run as both a full time (1 year) and part time (2 year) course.
According to the University, the programme of study will be strongly guided by the art and design of the subject rather than the science and students will have the option to pursue an MA or MDes award, depending on whether they undertake a dissertation or design project report.
The program will focus on the use of light within the built environment and the technical and creative aspects of light art, including digital projection.
Commenting on the course, Iain Macrae MSLL, head of global lighting applications management for Thorn Lighting and president elect of the Society of Light and Lighting said: "The problem with this profession is the distinct lack of further and higher education to support those that wish to become specialists in lighting… I look forward to seeing [Edinburgh] Napier produce quality lighting designers that can join our profession with little need for initial training."
The programme will be led by Malcolm Innes PLDA, a professional lighting designer and light artist with over 19 years experience of architectural lighting design. He has six years experience lecturing at degree and postgraduate level and continues to pursue his own light art and design practice.
For anyone who is interested in helping to establish the course in a practical way, the organisers have created a short online survey to gauge the potential material and support, either financial or intellectual, that may be available from the lighting industry.