Product design encompasses a huge field of research, development, marketing, fabrication and distribution. Just about any object you can imagine has been worked on by a product designer or more likely, several. Product designers are responsible for conceptualising, prototyping and producing a vast array of things, from the smaller components to the most complex engineering objects. As a student you’ll explore user-centred design, materials, research methods and manufacturing processes.
Entry requirements for a master’s course usually include a relevant undergraduate degree in design, engineering or a related field, along with a portfolio of design work. Some courses may accept applicants who can demonstrate a significant quantity and quality of professional work, in lieu of an undergraduate degree.
More than 30 universities in the UK offer these programmes and there are many specialisms built-in to the courses, such as furniture, environmental and health and safety design.
What to Expect
Expect a learning experience which balances technical, creative and communication-based work. Product design incorporates a holistic approach to the working process and this will extend to the master’s degree curriculum. You’ll work with a large variety of digital and physical design tools, learning how to represent your ideas and then move them onwards to the prototyping and fabrication phases.
You’ll mainly be assessed in a project-oriented structure, with proposals, presentations, portfolios and usually a final dissertation or extend project. You’ll be familiar with a range of software and digital tools, as well as writing and image making skills and logistical know-how. This makes you a versatile graduate, ready to apply your utilitarian education to a number of professional roles in product design, process optimisation and consultancy.
Read more...