Product Design is concerned with designing objects and artefacts which shape the world around us, from consumer goods and medical products to safety equipment and communication devices. The course explores the relationship between human factors and the design process and examines social and cultural issues that influence design decisions. The course develops both studio and workshop-based skills and introduces a range of new technologies,manufacturing processes and 2D and 3Dvisualisation techniques.

The course is part of the Design Studies Programme and shares modules with Interior Products Design, Interior Design and Design Management Strategies. Links with these subject areas enable you to explore a variety of design areas in a holistic context while also widening your career prospects.

Take a look at this year's graduates' work

Key Facts

• Explore how objects and artefacts of all kinds help shape your world, and how human, social and cultural factors influence design decisions.
• Explore the business end of product design through practical, industry-related projects.
• Take part in study trips and get the chance to widen you experience by studying overseas.
• Excellent industry links with companies such as Global Colour Research, LG Chemicals Europe and the Lighting Association bring contemporary relevance, insight and professional contacts to your studies. 
• Part of our Design Studies Programme, sharing modules with BA (Hons) Interior Design; BA (Hons) Interior Products Design; and BA (Hons) Design Management Strategies.
• Explore several fascinating design areas, widening your professional experience, contacts and prospects, with the flexibility to change direction within the first year of the programme.

Further Studies

For further information on courses Tel: +44(0)121 331 5595 or go direct to the courses section of the website.

Employment Opportunities

Graduates may pursue a variety of careers within manufacturing industry or in consultancy, as design practitioners, design managers or freelance designer-makers. Related fields of employment, such as marketing or design research, also attract graduates.

Course Structure

Learning is project based and supported by lectures, tutorials, seminars and specialist workshops. These will ensure that you learn to be proficient in critical and analytical skills and are aware of the commercial, cultural and technological contexts within which business operates. Industry-related projects will ensure that you have team-working skills and can present concepts with authority and confidence using a variety of presentation technologies.

Our industry experienced staff will encourage you to develop transferable intellectual and personal skills appropriate to the changing environments of professional employment.

You will be provided with studios to work in, as well as access to computer suites with the latest industry standard software. Drawing and model making facilities are provided, along with e-learning and extensive subject specific literature in the library.

Placements

There is an opportunity to participate in exchange programmes with overseas universities and to work on live projects with industry. Clients working with the university have included Marks and Spencer, Phillips and John Lewis.

Entry Requirements

• 280 tariff points
• BTEC National Diploma overall grade DMM
• Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Studies (Art and Design) with merit or distinction in the final stage
• International Baccalaureate with 28 points
• Equivalent qualifications or experience
• A good portfolio
  

Application Details

UCAS profile: W243 Product Design

Portfolio Guidelines (to be presented at interview)

The work submitted within your portfolio can be work produced as part of a formal course of study, or anything you have produced independently as a result of your own personal interest, (this could also include any work you have produced professionally).
 
We will be looking for an obvious interest in the visual arts and three-dimensional design. You should be able to demonstrate an awareness of both the historical and contemporary scene.
 
A range of drawings displaying your skills in different mediums. If possible include a variety of styles, as this will give us much clearer idea of your artistic ability. Any graphic based work is also worth including.
 
Please include evidence of sketchbook work (we like to see how your ideas have evolved also you can include visits to relevant exhibitions, galleries, buildings, interiors, work experience etc.

Any projects concerning problem solving (taking a project brief and producing a solution) are essential, especially anything three-dimensional e.g. sculpture, model making, ceramics, furniture, interior projects etc. Photographs/images of any 3D work should be included and technical drawings would be good to see!

Fees Notes

If you already have an equivalent level qualification, you may be charged a higher fee for your course. For further information visit the fees area of the Student Info section.

Enquiries

Prospective students from the UK or EU may enquire online by using the Course Enquiry Form or call +44 (0)121 331 5595.

Prospective students from non-EU countries may enquire via the International Enquiry Form or call +44 (0)121 331 6714.