BA in (Hons) Product Design and Craft (with Placement)

The BA (Hons) Product Design and Craft program at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to provide students with a unique blend of design expertise and craft skills. This four-year program, which includes a placement year, offers students the opportunity to explore the intersection of product design and craftsmanship, preparing them for diverse careers in the creative industries and beyond.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Product Design and Craft program at MMU is carefully structured to cover a wide range of topics essential for students to develop their skills in both design and craft. Students study subjects such as design theory, materials exploration, CAD (Computer-Aided Design), prototyping, woodworking, ceramics, textiles, and metalwork. They engage in studio-based projects, workshops, and collaborative activities to enhance their creativity, technical proficiency, and problem-solving abilities.

Research Focus: Manchester Metropolitan University is committed to fostering research excellence in product design and craft, and students in the BA (Hons) program have the opportunity to engage in research projects that explore innovative approaches to design and making. They investigate historical and contemporary craft practices, experiment with sustainable materials and fabrication techniques, and explore the cultural and societal implications of design and craftsmanship. Through research-led design projects, students develop critical thinking skills and gain insights into the role of craft in contemporary society.

Industry Engagement: MMU maintains strong connections with craft organizations, design studios, manufacturing companies, and creative enterprises, ensuring that the Product Design and Craft program remains relevant to the needs of the creative industries. Through industry placements, students have the opportunity to gain practical experience working in professional craft studios, design workshops, or manufacturing facilities, collaborating with skilled artisans and designers. Industry engagement enriches students' learning experiences and enhances their employability upon graduation.

Global Perspective: With a diverse student body and a commitment to global collaboration, Manchester Metropolitan University offers a global perspective within its Product Design and Craft program. Students have the opportunity to explore craft traditions and cultural influences from around the world, participate in international craft exhibitions and residencies, and collaborate with artisans and designers from different cultural backgrounds. MMU also encourages study abroad programs and international craft exchanges, allowing students to gain cross-cultural understanding and broaden their perspectives on design and making.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at MMU are typically required to have a minimum academic qualification of 65% or above in their previous studies. This may vary depending on the specific course and country requirements.

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 88, with at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 17 in Speaking, and 20 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 61 with no individual score below 59.
• 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.

Scholarships provide opportunities for talented students to pursue their studies at Manchester Metropolitan University. 

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. The scholarship offers a partial tuition fee waiver of up to £5,000.

International Undergraduate Scholarships: MMU offers a range of undergraduate scholarships for international students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees, with values ranging from £2,000 to £5,000.

Country-Specific Scholarships: MMU offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and provide financial assistance to support students from specific geographic areas.

Sports Scholarships: MMU recognizes the achievements of talented athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and sporting aspirations. These scholarships provide financial support and additional training opportunities for student-athletes.

External Scholarships and Funding: MMU also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities offered by governments, organizations, and foundations in their home countries. The university provides guidance and support in accessing external funding options.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year.

Graduates of Manchester Metropolitan University's (MMU) BA (Hons) Product Design and Craft program, which includes a placement year, have a wide range of exciting career opportunities in the creative industries and beyond, leveraging their unique blend of design expertise and craft skills.

Product Designer: Many graduates pursue careers as product designers, utilizing their design skills and craft knowledge to create innovative and visually appealing products. They work for design consultancies, manufacturing companies, or start their own design studios, designing consumer products, furniture, ceramics, textiles, and other crafted goods.

Craftsperson/Artisan: Graduates with a passion for craftsmanship may choose to work as craftspersons or artisans, specializing in a particular craft discipline such as woodworking, ceramics, textiles, or metalwork. They create handmade objects, artworks, and functional items, selling their work through galleries, craft fairs, online platforms, or commission-based projects.

Design Maker/Entrepreneur: Some graduates become design makers or creative entrepreneurs, combining their design skills and craft expertise to develop their own product lines or brands. They launch their own businesses, producing limited edition or bespoke products that showcase their unique design aesthetic and craftsmanship.

Design Educator/Workshop Facilitator: Graduates interested in education may pursue careers as design educators or workshop facilitators, teaching product design and craft courses in universities, colleges, or community centers. They inspire the next generation of designers and makers, sharing their knowledge, skills, and passion for design and craft with students of all ages.

Design Researcher/Consultant: With a strong foundation in research and critical thinking, graduates may work as design researchers or consultants, exploring emerging trends, materials, and technologies in product design and craft. They conduct research, analyze market opportunities, and provide insights and recommendations to design firms, manufacturers, or cultural organizations.

Sustainable Designer/Advocate: Graduates with a commitment to sustainability may specialize in sustainable design practices, exploring eco-friendly materials, production methods, and design solutions that minimize environmental impact. They work for sustainability-focused design firms, NGOs, or governmental agencies, advocating for responsible design practices and promoting awareness of environmental issues.

Art Director/Creative Director: Some graduates transition into roles as art directors or creative directors, leading design teams and overseeing creative projects in advertising agencies, design studios, or media companies. They provide artistic direction, conceptualize design strategies, and ensure that design projects align with client objectives and brand identities.

Cultural Heritage Specialist: Graduates with an interest in preserving cultural heritage may work as cultural heritage specialists, collaborating with museums, galleries, or heritage organizations to document, research, and conserve traditional craft practices and artifacts. They may curate exhibitions, develop educational programs, or engage in heritage conservation projects.