Product Design BA/BSc (Hons)

About the course

This Product Desing degree provides an opportunity to experience and develop the skills and processes involved in the professional practice of product design. Approaches are centred around consumer goods, where issues surrounding everyday manufactured products are developed and explored. The degree investigates the cultural, technical and commercial factors which influence the development of innovative new products, and it introduces the creative and professional strategies which underpin design.

The study includes branding and methods of identifying consumer needs and aspirations as an approach to creating the right product. Industry partners include Ford, Xerox and Herman Miller, with strong working relationships with Imagination Ltd., Conran & Partners and London Associates. The staff team is drawn from nationally and internationally experienced designers who bring their research and professional interests directly into the student environment.

Why choose this course?

• This Product Design degree is industry focused which has excellent links to industry.
• This unique degree provides the depth of skills and knowledge needed to succeed in Product Design as a career.
• As a student on the degree, you will learn the development process of taking a product to completion. Not only in terms of the design but also be equipped with knowledge of the influencing factors needed to make the product successful.
• This exciting degree fosters students to be experimental, explore and challenge their design ideas to push the boundaries on tradition Product Design.
• View student work

Study routes

• Sandwich, 4 Years
• Part Time, 6 Years
• Full Time, 3 Years

Locations

• University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Careers

Some of our graduates move on to careers in the industry, but many choose to continue their creative and professional practice on a free-lance, self-employed basis. Recent graduate jobs include: - Design Manager at Tesco; Marketing Co-ordinator - WH Smith; Designer - SKK Lighting; Designer - Product Partners Ltd; Designer - Mira Bathroom Fitments.

Teaching methods

Teaching on this programme is largely focused around project based work. All projects are supported by focused lectures, seminar discussions. At Year One and Year Two, there are a range of additional workshop sessions that are designed to address the broad range of design skills required by Product Designers, these include 3d workshop skills, 2d CAD, 3d modelling through to issues relating to the presentation and visualization of project ideas.

Students tackle a variety of briefs ranging in complexity and time scales, some that are directed and others in which students negotiate their direction of the brief. Some projects will take many weeks to complete whilst others will be solved within a matter of hours. There's also a huge variety to the pattern of learning experiences with some projects being team based and others are worked on individually. Tutorials and seminars include one-on-one, small group, medium sized groups for workshops and large groups for lectures. The project critique is a fundamental part of our design teaching. The critique is a forum in which students present and defend their project proposals in front of their peers; this mirrors the real life scenario when designers present their ideas to clients.

Work Placement

Placements are a valuable means of establishing industrial contacts and gaining an insight into the commercial reality of a chosen discipline. We have a long history of students working with industry supplementing the taught university curriculum with real life on the job experience.

This has seen students working right across the creative industries sector: in graphic, product and interior design consultancies, working as artist in residence in galleries, producing props and sets for the film & TV industry, shadowing teachers in education, working with commercial photographers through to students working right across the Music industry.

We expect students interested in obtaining a work placement; to be proactive, to self-initiate this interest and to communicate and work with programme staff in their identification of companies and organisations that are able to provide the appropriate range of experiences and opportunities.

We value the opportunity and benefits of the placement experience highly and as such, we encourage all students to consider obtaining a placement as part of their course. However, we recognise that this may not be a viable option for a number of reasons. In addition, we are not able to guarantee that all students will undertake a work placement as part of their studies.

Structure

Year 1

Core Modules

• Product Design Skills

  This module introduces core skills for exploring, representing and making three-dimensional objects and environments. Students extend their drawing skills and are introduced to some of the options available in a range of computer applications and machine shop practices. These include two-dimensional computer aided design and image-processing. In the machine shop students are introduced to safe working practices that must be understood before they are allowed to independently operate appropriate machines. The skills taught in this module equip students with some core skills and methods which enable the physical or digital realisation and communication of 3D design ideas. 3D digital modelling is introduced as an effective additional modelling tool within the 3D design development field. Students use generic ideas about designing and using 3D digital design methodologies to realise a series of defined projects during supported workshops and directed study time. Some of the assignments are technical exercises that ensure the student has acquired a body of skills that support more freely interpretative assignments. On completion of the module the student will be aware of solid modelling and will be able to discuss the relevant merits of the modelling processes.

• 3D Design Practices A

  The module provides a further introduction to 3D Design practice. Working in response to set briefs, students explore aspects of 3D practice, managing a project from inception to conclusion. Set briefs challenge students to consider the manifestations of three-dimensional creativity. The ability to present design ideas both visually and verbally is also developed in this module. Meeting deadlines for exercise components develops the student's personal management abilities, in preparation for further levels of degree study.

• 3D Design Projects B

  This module sees a development of the learning of the key aspects of three-dimensional practice introduced in semester A. Student learning is centred on design briefs in response to which students are expected to apply a creative design process. It develops an understanding of design as communication, introducing it as both a visionary and functional activity through which concepts can be proposed that act as catalysts to the improvement of human experience. The basic construction of 3D objects and environments, as a response to functional need, is explored and students' knowledge of production processes, construction, and methods of proposal, testing, and decision-making associated with this aspect of design development, is extended. This module also enhances students' thinking by exploring the relationship between two and three dimensions and the development of forms across different scales. Methods and platforms for exploring transferable relationships of forms and materials are investigated for their creative potential. The module includes lecture, seminar, studio and workshop sessions and when appropriate students are asked to present their ideas both visually and verbally.

• 3D Creative Processes A

  Students are introduced to the principles of Product Design practice. This module enables students to engage with product design practices at an introductory level so that a basic vocabulary of visual language can be established for creative development and application. Languages of 3D form and structure are explored through the manipulation of a range of materials and through ways of thinking about form, space and environments. Students explore the potential of three-dimensional design as a vehicle of communication. In respect to this, various qualities of 3D language are explored as means of visual communication, to engender experience, to communicate information to an audience and to meet user expectations and aspirations. The module introduces approaches to tackling a design brief including needs analysis and idea generation, processes of testing ideas, and methods of developing a number of alternative design proposals.

• C&CS L4 Product Design

  This module aims to introduce students to the notion that critical and cultural aspects of Product and Industrial Design are a vital component of innovative professional design. Teaching and learning will be integrated into Product and Industrial Design studio modules and will take the form of lectures, practical and theoretical seminars, visits and workshops. Module content may include materials, technologies and processes; entrepreneurship; consumption and marketing; key design movements; and how design is shaped by a variety of cultural and professional contexts. The module will enable students to begin to locate their practice within a wider contextual and professional framework. To complement discipline specific studies this module aims to provide students with a repertoire of study skills of research, critical analysis and communication including academic conventions.

Optional

Year 2

Core Modules

• CAD Modelling for Industrial Designers

  This module is designed to consolidate skills in design visualisation and solid modelling undertaken in Year one. The module encourages a critical and evaluative approach to 3d modelling to be developed to allow students to select the most appropriate for the task at hand. Through set task(s) the students engage in a focused 3d CAD modelling exercise(s) that sees surface and solid modelling critically evaluated in terms of overall appropriateness in the replication of a given artefact. At all times, students work in the context of the design and development of 3d products and such, in which both external form and internal components are designed and developed. On completion of the module the student will be capable of distinguishing between the appropriateness of surface and solid modelling for a given task and discuss the relevant merits of each modelling process. In addition students will have developed enhanced presentation skills.

• Employability and Professional Development

  This module provides contextual knowledge and experience essential to professional practice in the industrial design sector. It enables students to acquire first hand knowledge of professional designers through a number of channels. These include work placements, case studies involving research and presentation of findings to peer groups; live work - working on a real project; and lectures/seminars delivered by a variety of visiting professionals specifically chosen to reflect a wide range of practice and career options. In addition the module includes practical work relating to the self-promotion and marketing of the individual, such that they may successfully apply for and secure employment. This includes portfolio presentation, verbal presentation of work, interview techniques and CV and letter writing skills. Alternatively, students may undertake a faculty work experience instead of this module, subject to agreement with the Programme Tutor.

• Design, Materials and Technology

  The module explores and develops the students' understanding of product development, extending the students' knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes and introduces an awareness of the technical considerations necessary to develop products. The module formally introduces the common classification of materials and outlines reasons for selecting particular types of materials and composites. It looks at the main developments in materials technology and at the key materials used in contemporary product development and manufacture of consumer products. It acquaints the students with mainstream manufacturing methods used for the manufacture of products, with emphasis given to the design of moulded products.

• Product Design Explorations

  Through a series of projects, students are asked to consider their practice against the core themes explored in Semester A. Further to these design exercises, students are assisted in identifying their competencies and interests in relation to these themes against the backdrop of current and emergent design debates, issues and contexts. Students have the opportunity to construct a self-initiated project in negotiation with staff which demonstrates their focus within Product Design in preparation for Level 3 study. This requires the construction of a proposal that sets an agenda that supports their specialism, and a strategy informed by proposed project content, research methodology, design processes and assessable outcomes. There may also be an opportunity to participate in a 'live' collaborative project with an industry partner. Emphasis is placed on the self-management of time, and on critical awareness used to support design agendas and engage with current professional design practice.

• Product Lifestyles and Futures

  Within this Module students are taught to engage with consumer lifestyles as well as the development of trends in relation to consumer behaviour, market placement, current, emergent and future consumer scenarios, contexts and paradigms through an experience of current best practice; including methodologies, tools and techniques through which Product Design engages with society to drive the development of Products and Services. The notion of time and scale of product impacts are explored along with strategies for implementing change. User 'well being' is considered alongside traditional functional requirements when evaluating design propositions. The issues associated with engaging with lifestyle and involved stakeholders are also placed within this construct to develop possible opportunities for multi-disciplinary design activity. Design investigations for 'current' as well as 'future' needs are related to the emergence of social, cultural and ecological values. The mechanisms and practical implications relating to consumer lifestyles are used when engaging lifestyle futures.

• Critical and Cultural Studies L5: Design

  This module aims to encourage students to see critical and cultural studies as a vital tool to further innovative and well-informed practice. A programme of study provides students with the opportunity to consider a range of theoretical positions that inform recent and contemporary practice and to use such debate to reflect critically upon their own work and to locate their practice within the context of historical, social, cultural and professional currents. Key areas for consideration may include the various cultural perspectives that have shaped design practice in industrial, post industrial and international contexts. Other topics may include: issues of representation such as gender; globalisation; theories and debates surrounding the production, circulation and consumption and sustainability. Students will be required to write an essay of between 2000-2500 words or an equivalent seminar presentation demonstrating skills of research and communication including the conventions of academic reference and makes substantive links with studio practice.

• C&CS L5 Product Design

  This module aims to encourage students to see critical and cultural studies as a vital tool to further innovative and well-informed practice in Product and Industrial Design. Students will consider a range of theoretical positions that inform recent and contemporary practice, to reflect critically upon their own work and to locate their practice within cultural and professional contexts. Key areas include the various cultural perspectives that have shaped design practice, including innovation; technology; trends and markets; and sustainability. The module will utilise themes, debates and case studies identified in the studio. Teaching and learning will be integrated into studio modules and will take the form of lectures, practical and theoretical seminars, visits and workshops. There will be a particular emphasis on student analysis of contemporary practice and innovation through presentations and visual analysis. To complement discipline specific studies, the module will enable students to develop their analytical skills through a variety of theoretical approaches. The module will build upon the repertoire of study skills of research, critical analysis and communication established at Level 4.

Optional

• Professional Work Experience 15: Design

  Students may identify a work experience opportunity or have a work experience suggested to them. Before starting students meet with the Programme Leader or their nominated tutor, to agree the impending placement. All aspects of the intended experience are addressed from health and safety to client confidentiality and students are given guidance on behaviour and how to manage expectations. Proposals need to identify an outline work programme, the number of days in placement and the main learning outcomes; and are subject to agreement of the Programme Leader.

• C&CS L5 Creative Arts

  This module will run in parallel programme specific Critical and Cultural Studies modules at Level 5 during Semester A, should there be a need for the school to provide a single semester (15 credits) option for its students. For example, to aid in transitional arrangements stemming from the development of C&CS in the school (2012/13), or to provide a 1 semester option to international students who will be studying at UH as part of an exchange from a recognised partner institution.

• CCS L5 Creative Arts

  This module will run in parallel programme specific Critical and Cultural Studies modules at Level 5 during Semester B, should there be a need for the school to provide a single semester (15 credits) option for its students. For example, to aid in transitional arrangements stemming from the development of C&CS in the school (2012/13), or to provide a 1 semester option to international students who will be studying at UH as part of an exchange from a recognised partner institution.

Year 3

Core Modules

• Sandwich Year (Creative Arts)

  The optional 'Sandwich' placement year may be undertaken between the levels 5 and 6. Students undertake the placement within a commercial, public or not for profit setting that is able to provide an appropriate learning experience related to the creative and cultural industries. A placement could take a variety of forms, including: * working in an external organisation; * working with a University company or professional team within the University; * self-employment within defined context and externally refereed. The placement duration would typically be sustained for at least 48 weeks, though may be sustained for a full year. While the Faculty/School actively supports the placement process, ultimately it is the placement provider that will agree to manage and select students, normally through an interview process. During the placement a member of the academic staff will be assigned to the student as a tutor and will monitor the student's progress during the placement period.

Optional

Year 4

Core Modules

• Design and Industry

  The Design and Industry Module engages students with the outside world and places their work in a professional context. This allows the students to further develop their understanding of the professional requirements of the industrial design industry. The module has two distinct options. Either students respond to briefs or guidelines published for participation in design or technology centred competition of a standing appropriate to the requirements of Level 3 degree study, or students work in collaboration with an Industry partner and respond to an industry set live project. This module is designed to place the students' work and achievements in the broader context of their peers and relates to areas in which their career aspirations may be realised. Students are required to only undertake one of the prescribed options. During semester C (between L5 and L6) students may undertake a faculty work experience, with the agreement of the Programme Tutor. This will contribute 5 credits towards this module with the assessment submission made during the period of this module.

• Product Design Minor Projects

  This module provides the student with the opportunity to make an additional entry to their portfolio demonstrating further design abilities. As such the students will engage in a self selected area of study which they have to negotiate with the staff team. Students will submit a written project proposal, which outlines the scope of the project, their aims and intended outcomes, and a projected project timetable. Students are expected to submit a design project that addresses a particular problem or need defined by them and must clearly show the coloration between research, development and final design.

• The Product Design Project

  This module forms the major contribution to the degree study. This module is the student's opportunity to demonstrate the extent of their knowledge and skills and to project their abilities to a professional audience. Students are expected to submit an extensive and in-depth design project that addresses a particular issue. This project must show clear evidence of research, idea origination, design development, model making (in terms of both sketch and final visual), material consideration, market/user/cultural investigation, through to final presentation of ideas using a range of media. The work forms part of the Graduate Exhibition of work held within the Faculty annually. The work will form part of the student portfolio in readiness for the world of work.

• Critical and Cultural Studies L6: Degree Essay / Report (Design)

  Designers need to be informed practitioners who engage critically with their discipline, its history, the ideas which inform it and how it is likely to evolve in the future. This module will enable students to conduct an in-depth enquiry of an aspect of design culture with an emphasis on the analysis of appropriate social, cultural, economic, technical, historical and aesthetic issues germane to students chosen topic and their studio work. The content of the module will be student-generated in that each student will bring their identified interests to the sessions. Independent learning will be supported through a programme of study workshops, tutorials and learning support materials on StudyNet which will enable students to develop skills in research, organisation and planning, critical analysis, constructing an argument, studentship (independent learning processes) and presentation including academic protocols. The assessed element of this module consists of a 6000 word essay/report or negotiated equivalent.

• Critical Reasoning and Evaluation

  The professional reflection module consolidates the knowledge, understanding and process of the Design Project module, and such is directly linked with this module. This module allows the students to reflect on their process and design outcome in the submission of a 1500 design report and a 10 minute panel presentation which justifies their decisions. This may include a pitch of the final design output. As this module is in partnership with the Design Project module the content of this module is student led with tutorials, workshops will be organised to help out appropriate research and apply analysis and presentation of their material.

Optional

Fees & funding

Fees 2013

UK/EU Students

Full time: £8,500 for the 2013 academic year

International Students

Discounts are available for International students if payment is made in full at registration

View detailed information about tuition fees

Additional course costs

In addition to the fees there are some compulsory course attached to this course:

Year 1
Foam, markers, materials for making - £120-£160
SolidWorks Student edition - £60 RRP

Year 2
Foam, markers, materials for making, RP models - £120-£160

Year 3
PCB kit - £35-£55
Professional portfolio, design show printing, final model, RP models - £120-£160

Scholarships

• National Scholarship Programme

Find out more about scholarships for UK/EU and international students

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

How to apply