MA Digital Media and Creative Industries
The MA Digital Media and Creative Industries at Loughborough University aims t...
BA (Hons) Industrial Design
Loughborough
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Industrial Design program at Loughborough University focuses on developing students' creativity, problem-solving abilities, and technical skills in the design of consumer products, industrial applications, and innovative technologies. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to explore and challenge design conventions while considering the technical feasibility and sustainability of their concepts. The program places a strong emphasis on user-centered design, ensuring that students consider both the user experience and the end-product's functionality. Students have access to state-of-the-art design and engineering facilities, including workshops, CAD software, and 3D printing tools, allowing them to bring their ideas to life through prototyping and testing. The course is structured to allow students to develop a diverse portfolio of work, which is a key asset in securing employment after graduation.
Curriculum: The BA (Hons) Industrial Design curriculum at Loughborough University is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of design principles, materials, manufacturing processes, and technology. In the first year, students are introduced to fundamental design techniques, drawing and visualization skills, materials science, and product development. The second year expands on these skills by introducing more specialized topics such as design history, human factors, and sustainable design practices. In the final year, students have the opportunity to work on complex design projects, often in collaboration with industry partners, and focus on creating innovative solutions to real-world design challenges. The curriculum integrates a combination of lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and project-based assignments, with a strong emphasis on developing both individual and collaborative design skills. Additionally, students have the option to undertake a placement year, which provides valuable industry experience and helps bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice.
Research Focus: Loughborough University is known for its strong research output in the field of industrial design, with a focus on creating products that are sustainable, user-friendly, and innovative. The BA (Hons) Industrial Design program benefits from the university's expertise in design research, particularly in areas such as human-centered design, sustainable product development, and smart technologies. Research at Loughborough often focuses on improving the functionality and performance of consumer products while minimizing environmental impact. Students in the program have the opportunity to engage with ongoing research projects, participate in design innovation challenges, and collaborate with faculty members on cutting-edge design solutions. The research-driven approach encourages students to explore the latest trends in technology and manufacturing processes, giving them a deeper understanding of the evolving industrial design landscape.
Industry Engagement: Loughborough University has established strong links with leading companies in the industrial design and manufacturing sectors, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the demands of the industry. The BA (Hons) Industrial Design program places a strong emphasis on industry engagement through collaborations with companies, live project briefs, and opportunities for internships and placements. Students can work on real-world projects that are commissioned by industry partners, giving them invaluable insight into the practical challenges of product design. This direct exposure to industry practice allows students to develop a professional portfolio and build connections with potential employers. Additionally, the university’s extensive alumni network offers students access to a community of professionals who can provide career guidance and mentorship as they transition into the workforce.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Industrial Design program at Loughborough University incorporates a global perspective, recognizing that design challenges are increasingly international in nature. Students are encouraged to think globally about the impact of design decisions on people, cultures, and environments around the world. The program covers a wide range of design issues, including sustainable product design, social responsibility, and the role of design in addressing global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and technological advancement. Loughborough’s diverse student body and international research collaborations provide students with opportunities to engage with global design trends, technologies, and practices. Moreover, the program offers study abroad opportunities and international partnerships that expose students to different cultural perspectives on design and innovation.
Location
Loughborough
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 28600
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 75% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Loughborough University offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their education and make studying in the UK more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, financial need, and the potential for students to contribute to the university community.
International Excellence Awards: These are merit-based scholarships offered to international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These awards typically cover part of the tuition fees and are designed to attract outstanding students from around the globe.
Global Scholarships: Loughborough offers various global scholarships based on geographical location, supporting students from specific regions or countries with reduced tuition fees.
Loughborough University Elite Sports Scholarships: These are available for students who are competing at an elite level in their sport. The scholarship includes financial support, as well as access to the university's world-class sports facilities, coaching, and training programs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Loughborough University offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular countries. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate high academic potential and a commitment to contributing to their home country upon graduation.
Loughborough University is widely regarded as one of the top institutions in the United Kingdom, offering a dynamic and well-rounded education. The BA (Hons) Industrial Design program at Loughborough University equips students with the necessary skills to excel in the rapidly evolving world of industrial design. Through a combination of creative thinking, technical proficiency, and hands-on experience, graduates are well-prepared to pursue a variety of exciting career opportunities in the design, manufacturing, and innovation sectors.
Industrial Designer: Industrial designers are responsible for creating the aesthetic and functional design of products across a variety of sectors, including consumer goods, automotive, electronics, and furniture. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Industrial Design program at Loughborough University are equipped with a strong understanding of design principles, user experience, ergonomics, and sustainable design. These skills allow them to develop products that are not only visually appealing but also practical, usable, and efficient. Graduates can work for design consultancies, product manufacturers, or start their own design studios.
Product Designer: Product designers focus on developing innovative products that meet the needs of users while maintaining high standards of quality and functionality. With training in areas such as CAD, materials science, and prototyping, BA (Hons) Industrial Design graduates are well-suited for roles in product design across various industries, including electronics, medical devices, and consumer products. The program at Loughborough prepares students to work on real-world projects that develop their problem-solving and critical thinking skills, making them ideal candidates for roles in product development and innovation teams.
UX/UI Designer: User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design are vital components of product development in industries such as technology, software, and digital services. BA (Hons) Industrial Design graduates from Loughborough University with an interest in digital products can move into the UX/UI design field. They will have the skills needed to design products that are intuitive, easy to use, and visually appealing, whether for websites, mobile applications, or software systems. The program’s emphasis on human-centered design and ergonomics positions graduates to understand the intersection between user needs and digital technology.
Design Engineer: Design engineers bridge the gap between creative design and technical functionality. These professionals are responsible for turning product concepts into manufacturable products, ensuring that the designs are technically feasible and cost-effective. With a strong foundation in both design and engineering principles, BA (Hons) Industrial Design graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers as design engineers. They may work in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, or renewable energy, where technical expertise is required to transform design concepts into fully functional products.
Sustainability Consultant: Sustainability is a core focus of the BA (Hons) Industrial Design program at Loughborough University. As sustainability becomes an increasingly important consideration in product development, graduates with knowledge of sustainable materials, processes, and design strategies are highly sought after. Sustainability consultants help businesses reduce their environmental footprint by advising on eco-friendly design practices, recycling, and sustainable sourcing. Graduates can work for consulting firms, design agencies, or as independent consultants in sectors ranging from consumer products to construction and energy.
Design Researcher: Design researchers play a crucial role in the product development process by gathering insights into consumer behavior, market trends, and technological advancements. Their research informs the design process, ensuring that products meet the needs of end users and align with market demands. Loughborough University’s BA (Hons) Industrial Design program emphasizes research methods, user experience, and the application of design thinking to solve problems. Graduates can work for design consultancies, product development companies, or in-house design teams to support product innovation and improve design outcomes.
Innovation Manager: Innovation managers oversee the development of new ideas and products within organizations. They lead cross-functional teams and coordinate research, design, and production to bring new products to market. With a strong understanding of both the creative and technical sides of industrial design, BA (Hons) Industrial Design graduates are well-equipped for roles as innovation managers. They can work in industries such as technology, consumer goods, and automotive, where they help drive new product developments and manage the innovation process from concept to launch.
Packaging Designer: Packaging design is an essential part of product development that influences brand perception, functionality, and sustainability. Packaging designers are responsible for creating packaging that is not only visually attractive but also functional, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. BA (Hons) Industrial Design graduates with an interest in packaging can apply their design skills to create packaging solutions for consumer goods, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and more. They work with product manufacturers to ensure that the packaging complements the product design and enhances the consumer experience.
Design Consultant: Design consultants work with businesses to improve their product offerings, providing expert advice on everything from product design to user experience and market positioning. These professionals often work in a variety of industries, including consumer goods, technology, healthcare, and fashion. Loughborough University’s BA (Hons) Industrial Design program prepares graduates to think critically about design challenges and deliver innovative solutions, making them well-suited for consulting roles. As consultants, they may help companies optimize product designs, streamline production processes, or enhance customer satisfaction through improved product functionality.
Entrepreneur/Start-Up Founder: Some BA (Hons) Industrial Design graduates choose to pursue entrepreneurship, using their design skills to create their own businesses and bring innovative products to market. The program’s emphasis on creativity, design thinking, and practical experience equips graduates with the tools needed to develop a viable product, design prototypes, and scale a business. Graduates who are passionate about innovation and product design may establish their own design consultancy or manufacturing business, creating unique products that address market needs.
