BA (Hons) Product Design
Nottingham - City Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Product Design program at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is an innovative and dynamic course that prepares students for careers in the creative industries. This program focuses on developing students' skills in design thinking, problem-solving, and product development, equipping them to design products that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and user-centered. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, industry collaboration, and creative thinking, the BA (Hons) Product Design program prepares students to become versatile and innovative designers.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Product Design program at NTU is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of product design principles and practices. Students study a range of topics, including design theory, materials science, manufacturing processes, digital design tools, and user experience (UX) design. They also have the opportunity to develop their skills in sketching, prototyping, 3D modeling, and CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. The program includes project-based learning, design workshops, and collaborative projects with industry partners, allowing students to apply their skills to real-world design challenges and develop a professional portfolio of work.
Research Focus: Nottingham Trent University has a strong research focus in product design and innovation, with faculty members engaged in research projects that explore emerging trends, technologies, and methodologies in the field. From sustainable design practices to user-centered design approaches, NTU researchers contribute to advancing knowledge and understanding in product design. Students in the BA (Hons) Product Design program have the opportunity to engage with research literature, conduct design research, and explore innovative solutions to contemporary design challenges.
Industry Engagement: NTU maintains close ties with industry partners in the creative industries, including design agencies, manufacturing companies, and product development firms. This ensures that the BA (Hons) Product Design program remains relevant and responsive to the needs of the industry. Through industry placements, design competitions, and guest lectures from industry professionals, students have the opportunity to gain insights into the design process, learn about industry trends, and network with potential employers. NTU's strong industry connections also provide students with internship opportunities and potential pathways to employment upon graduation.
Global Perspective: With a diverse student body and a commitment to global perspectives in design, Nottingham Trent University offers students a global perspective on product design and innovation. The BA (Hons) Product Design program explores design trends and influences from around the world, encouraging students to consider the cultural, social, and environmental implications of their designs. Through international collaborations, study abroad opportunities, and multicultural learning experiences, students develop a broader understanding of design and its impact on societies and cultures worldwide.
Location
Nottingham - City Campus
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17200
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at NTU are typically required to have completed their secondary education or its equivalent. NTU expects international students to have achieved a minimum of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 81, with at least 19 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
- PTE: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 51.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
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 Nottingham Trent University:
International Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship: NTU offers the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship for international students. This scholarship is highly competitive and awarded based on academic excellence, with a focus on the applicant's achievements and potential contributions to NTU and their chosen field of study.
International Undergraduate Scholarship: NTU provides undergraduate scholarships for international students, which are awarded based on academic achievement and cover a percentage of tuition fees for each year of study.
Country-Specific Scholarships: NTU offers scholarships tailored to students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships aim to attract talented individuals from diverse backgrounds and may have specific eligibility criteria, such as academic achievement or residency in a particular country.
External Scholarships:NTU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are various organizations, foundations, and governments that offer scholarships to support international students studying in the UK. NTU provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for these external scholarships.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary from year to year.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Product Design program from Nottingham Trent University (NTU) are well-equipped for a variety of exciting career opportunities in the field of product design and related industries. With their strong foundation in design principles, technical skills, and creative problem-solving abilities, NTU graduates are prepared to thrive in diverse roles across sectors such as industrial design, consumer goods, technology, and manufacturing.
Industrial Designer: Many BA (Hons) Product Design graduates pursue careers as industrial designers, working for design consultancies, in-house design teams, or freelance. Industrial designers are responsible for creating innovative and aesthetically appealing products that meet the needs of users and clients. They collaborate with engineers, marketers, and manufacturers to develop concepts, produce prototypes, and oversee the production process. Industrial designers may specialize in specific sectors such as furniture design, automotive design, consumer electronics, or medical devices.
UX/UI Designer: With their understanding of user-centered design principles and digital design tools, BA (Hons) Product Design graduates are well-suited for careers as UX (User Experience) or UI (User Interface) designers. UX/UI designers create intuitive and engaging digital experiences for websites, mobile apps, and software applications. They conduct user research, design wireframes and prototypes, and collaborate with developers and stakeholders to create seamless and visually appealing interfaces that enhance user satisfaction and usability.
Product Developer/Engineer: Some BA (Hons) Product Design graduates choose to pursue careers as product developers or engineers, working for companies involved in product manufacturing and development. Product developers/engineers are responsible for turning design concepts into tangible products, ensuring that they meet quality standards, cost targets, and regulatory requirements. They may collaborate with designers, suppliers, and production teams to refine product designs, optimize manufacturing processes, and bring products to market.
Entrepreneur/Start-up Founder: BA (Hons) Product Design graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit may choose to start their own design studios or product-based businesses. As entrepreneurs, they have the opportunity to develop and launch their own product ideas, from concept development and prototyping to branding and marketing. By leveraging their design skills, industry knowledge, and creativity, entrepreneurs can bring innovative products to market and build successful brands.
Design Researcher/Strategist: Some BA (Hons) Product Design graduates may pursue careers as design researchers or strategists, working for design research firms, innovation consultancies, or corporate design teams. Design researchers/strategists are responsible for identifying user needs, market trends, and emerging technologies to inform design decisions and innovation strategies. They conduct user interviews, analyze market data, and facilitate workshops to generate insights and identify opportunities for product innovation and differentiation.
