MSc Construction Project Management
The MSc Construction Project Management program at Birmingham City University is a high...
BA (Hons) Product and Furniture Design
City Centre
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Product and Furniture Design program at Birmingham City University offers students an exciting opportunity to explore the intersection of product design and furniture design. This interdisciplinary course equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to conceptualize, develop, and realize innovative designs that blend functionality, aesthetics, and user experience. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, encouraging students to experiment with materials, technologies, and manufacturing processes while fostering a deep understanding of design theory and practice.
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Design Process Mastery: Students develop a comprehensive understanding of the design process from ideation to production. They learn to conduct research, generate concepts, create prototypes, and refine designs based on user feedback and market insights. This iterative approach equips them with the skills to tackle complex design challenges in product and furniture design.
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Material Exploration: The program emphasizes material exploration and experimentation. Students engage with a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, plastics, textiles, and composites, learning how material properties influence design outcomes. They gain practical skills in workshop environments, acquiring hands-on experience in fabrication techniques such as woodworking, metalworking, and 3D modeling.
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User-Centered Design: Central to the curriculum is the concept of user-centered design. Students learn to prioritize user needs, preferences, and behaviors when developing product and furniture concepts. They conduct user research, usability testing, and ergonomic evaluations to ensure that their designs meet functional requirements and enhance user experiences.
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Sustainability and Innovation: The program integrates sustainability principles into design practice. Students explore environmentally conscious design strategies, such as using renewable materials, minimizing waste, and considering lifecycle impacts. They are encouraged to innovate sustainable solutions that address contemporary environmental challenges in product and furniture design.
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Industry Collaboration and Professional Development: Birmingham City University fosters strong industry links, providing students with opportunities to collaborate with design professionals, manufacturers, and industry partners. Through live projects, internships, and design competitions, students gain real-world experience and develop professional networks that enhance their career prospects upon graduation.
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Portfolio Development and Exhibition: Throughout the program, students build a robust design portfolio showcasing their creative vision and technical skills. They participate in exhibitions, showcases, and design events, presenting their work to peers, industry professionals, and potential employers. This hands-on experience prepares them for successful careers in product design, furniture design, consultancy, or entrepreneurship.
Location
City Centre
Score
IELTS: 6
Tuition Fee
£ 13980
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs are required to have completed their secondary education with a minimum academic achievement of 60-65% or above.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.0, with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL (iBT): Overall TOEFL score of 80.
- PTE Academic: Overall PTE score of 64.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
These scholarships provide opportunities for talented students to pursue their studies at Birmingham City University
Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship:This scholarship is available to international students applying for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs at Birmingham City University.The scholarship covers a portion of the tuition fees, providing a financial boost to successful applicants.Eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and the scholarship amount may vary, so it is important to check the university's official website for the most up-to-date information.
Academic Merit Scholarship:Birmingham City University offers the Academic Merit Scholarship to high-achieving international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance.The scholarship is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.Eligibility criteria, application procedures, and the scholarship amount may differ based on the level of study and program, so it is advisable to visit the university's official website for specific details.
Country-Specific Scholarships:Birmingham City University provides scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions.These scholarships aim to promote diversity and cultural exchange, and the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and scholarship amounts can vary depending on the country or region.International students should check the university's website or contact the admissions office to find out if there are any country-specific scholarships available for their nationality.
External Scholarships and Funding:Birmingham City University also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities offered by governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as corporate sponsors.The university's dedicated scholarship and funding team can provide guidance and support in identifying and applying for external scholarships.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary from year to year.
The BA (Hons) Product and Furniture Design program at Birmingham City University prepares students for diverse and rewarding career paths within the field of design. Graduates of this program possess a unique blend of skills that enable them to pursue opportunities in product design, furniture design, consultancy, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship.
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Product Designer: Graduates can embark on careers as product designers, working for design consultancies, manufacturing companies, or in-house design teams. They conceive and develop new products, considering functionality, aesthetics, ergonomics, and market trends. Product designers collaborate with engineers, marketers, and manufacturers to bring innovative products to market.
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Furniture Designer/Maker: With a specialization in furniture design, graduates can pursue roles as furniture designers or makers. They design bespoke furniture pieces, ranging from domestic to commercial applications, considering materials, construction techniques, and user needs. Furniture designers may work independently, for design studios, or artisan workshops.
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Design Consultant: Graduates can work as design consultants, providing expertise to businesses seeking creative solutions for product development, branding, and user experience. Design consultants offer strategic advice, conduct market research, and translate insights into actionable design concepts for clients across various industries.
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Entrepreneurship: Many graduates choose to launch their own design businesses, establishing startups focused on product design, furniture design, or design-led ventures. Entrepreneurial graduates leverage their design skills, industry knowledge, and creative vision to develop and market their own products, often targeting niche markets or addressing specific design challenges.
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Design Researcher: Some graduates pursue careers in design research, exploring emerging trends, materials, and technologies that influence product and furniture design. Design researchers work for academic institutions, design think tanks, or research-focused organizations, contributing to the advancement of design theory and practice.
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Exhibition and Set Design: Graduates may find opportunities in exhibition design or set design for events, museums, and entertainment industries. They create immersive environments, displays, and installations that engage audiences and convey brand narratives through spatial design.
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Design Educator: For those interested in academia, graduates can pursue teaching or lecturing positions in design schools, universities, or vocational institutions. They share their expertise with aspiring designers, mentor students, and contribute to the next generation of design professionals.
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Industry Collaboration and Freelancing: Many graduates work as freelancers, collaborating with design studios, manufacturers, and startups on short-term projects or commissions. Freelancing offers flexibility and the opportunity to work across different sectors of the design industry.
