Undergraduate study
     

Art & Design

BA (Hons) Product Design

  • UCAS code: W240 BA/PD
  • Length: 3 years

2012 entry

 

Do you want to design the next Batmobile? Or how about James Bond’s car? Teesside graduates designed both. Care to join them?

Our product design courses have an outstanding reputation and a proven track record. This exciting course focuses on creative ideas for the form of products and how they relate to consumer needs and tastes as well as their environmental impact.

You apply your creative skills to a variety of market-led design projects such as transport, furniture, lighting, consumer goods, toys, sports equipment and packaging. You nurture your creativity and develop the skills, knowledge and experience needed in work.

What you study

Year 1 introduces principles of product design, design presentation skills, ergonomics, key software applications, materials, manufacturing and business awareness. In Year 2 you develop creative knowledge and skills through selected project briefs. You continue to build professional and project management skills as well as a deeper understanding of environmental issues and changing global markets. In Year 3 you negotiate projects of your own choice and are given opportunities to work on live projects and international competition briefs.

How you learn

The practice-based elements of all our art and design courses are taught in a studio environment, supported by a full range of digital resources and workshop facilities. This provides real hands-on experience using equipment and processes which are up to date. In addition to this, independent and student-centred learning are encouraged. Theoretical work is primarily delivered through illustrated lectures and seminars where there is opportunity for collective discussion.

How you are assessed

The work produced is the work assessed; there are no separate written examinations and the use of design projects is a key feature. The process of assessment is undertaken against carefully defined criteria and often involves a critique of project-based assignments – this is a process widely used in the design field and allows for both staff and peer group appraisal.

Professional development

A specifically designed programme runs in each of the three years to encourage the development of professional links and contacts. Study trips are also on offer to heighten professional understanding. An optional industrial placement is possible when you have completed Year 2.

Career opportunities

As an expert problem solver with a sound understanding of the marketplace, you are well placed to enter industry as an in-house designer or consultant to small and large-scale businesses and manufacturers. Postgraduate study is also an option.

Entry requirements

A typical offer is 240-280 tariff points (2011) or 280 tariff points (2012) from at least two A levels (or equivalent) – one must be in an appropriate discipline. And we attach considerable importance to your portfolio of work.

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