MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy
The MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy program at London Metropolitan University is desi...
BA Hons Furniture and Product Design
Aldgate
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
London Metropolitan University, situated in the vibrant design hub of East London's Shoreditch, offers a dynamic BA (Hons) in Furniture and Product Design. This program is designed to equip aspiring designers with the comprehensive skills, knowledge, and practical experience necessary for a successful career in the design industry, whether in employment, self-employment, or further postgraduate study. The university prides itself on its strong links with the local and international design communities, providing students with valuable networking opportunities through visits to design studios, galleries, retailers, and interactions with journalists and curators. The teaching team comprises experienced educators and internationally recognised designers, fostering a dynamic practice-based learning culture.
Curriculum: The curriculum emphasizes practical experimentation and a deep understanding of materials, technologies, and production processes. Students delve into the qualities of various materials, their potential for sustainability, and their appropriate application in design. The course is structured to develop a "designing through making" approach, with a strong focus on user-centred design philosophy. In the first year, core modules introduce students to design history and theory, the design process (including observation, idea generation, and concept development), and fundamental workshop and studio practices, including 2D and 3D communication skills, model-making, and the use of both analogue and digital technologies. As the course progresses, students undertake increasingly challenging design briefs and are encouraged to develop a critically informed and personal approach to design through visual research, iterative design processes, and material experimentation. Software such as Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Rhino 3D, and V-Ray are integrated into the learning process to support the development of presentation and communication skills.
Research Focus: While the program is heavily studio and practice-based, a research focus is embedded within the curriculum through "Critical and Contextual Studies" modules in the first and second years. These modules provide a theoretical, historical, and cultural framework for understanding product and furniture design. Students explore the relationship between design and contexts of production, consumption, technologies, and ethics, gaining a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and economic significance of the field. This research-informed approach encourages students to become "opinionated thinkers" as well as competent makers.
Industry Engagement: A significant aspect of the London Metropolitan University program is its strong industry engagement. The university leverages its location in a creative hotspot to provide students with real-world exposure. This includes visits to design studios and research-based trips, with previous optional study tours to international design centres such as Milan, Munich, Paris, Berlin, Barcelona, and Valencia. The program aims to prepare graduates for the professional world by equipping them with industry-relevant skills and fostering professional networks. Students' work is often promoted through international design competitions, major graduate shows, and external exhibitions, further enhancing their visibility within the design industry.
Global Perspective: The program's location in a global city like London inherently provides a global perspective. The university's diverse student body, representing over 140 countries, fosters an inclusive environment and exposes students to a range of cultural influences. The optional international study tours further broaden students' horizons, providing them with an international understanding of the design landscape and the opportunity to engage with global design trends and practices. The emphasis on industry engagement and the promotion of student work through international platforms also contribute to a global outlook.
Location
Aldgate
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% 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 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
London Metropolitan University offers a variety of scholarships and financial support options designed to assist international students with the cost of tuition fees and living expenses while studying in the UK. These scholarships aim to support talented students, regardless of their financial background, and encourage diversity in the university’s student body.
International Scholarship: London Metropolitan University provides an International Scholarship for non-UK students who are enrolled in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs. This scholarship is designed to help reduce the cost of tuition fees and make studying at the university more affordable. The scholarship amount varies depending on the program and student eligibility, typically covering a partial reduction of tuition fees. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit, and students are assessed upon application for the program.
Regional Scholarships: To encourage students from diverse regions to study at London Metropolitan University, the university offers Regional Scholarships. These scholarships are designed to attract students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The scholarships are often based on merit and financial need and offer varying amounts of financial assistance to help cover the costs of tuition fees.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students can explore external scholarships offered by organizations, government bodies, and foundations. Some notable external scholarships include those offered by the British Council, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships, which provide significant funding to international students pursuing higher education in the UK. London Metropolitan University encourages its international students to apply for these prestigious scholarships in addition to institutional funding opportunities.
A degree in Furniture and Product Design opens doors to a diverse range of career paths. Graduates from London Metropolitan University's program are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue roles in various sectors.
Furniture Designer: This is a direct and common career path. Graduates can design furniture for homes, offices, public spaces, and hotels, working for manufacturers, retailers, or as independent designers. They create innovative and functional pieces, from concept to production.
Product Designer: Extending beyond furniture, product designers conceive, develop, and refine a wide array of products, from household goods to industrial equipment. They focus on user needs, aesthetics, and manufacturability. This role often involves working with diverse teams and considering the entire product lifecycle.
Industrial Designer: Similar to product designers, industrial designers work on a broader scale, creating designs for mass-produced products, often prioritizing form and function with an emphasis on cost-effective production.
Interior and Spatial Designer: With their understanding of space and object placement, graduates can work as interior designers, creating functional and visually appealing interior environments for residential, commercial, or public spaces. They can specialize in selecting and incorporating furniture into their designs.
CAD Technician/Designer: Proficiency in CAD software is a core skill developed in the program. Graduates can work as CAD technicians, creating detailed technical drawings and 3D models for designers, architects, and manufacturers.
Exhibition Designer: Utilizing their spatial awareness and design skills, graduates can design and create temporary or permanent exhibitions and displays for museums, trade shows, and retail environments.
Bespoke/Custom Designer: For those with a passion for unique creations, working as a bespoke or custom designer allows them to work closely with individual clients to create one-of-a-kind furniture or products tailored to specific needs and preferences.
Design Consultant: Graduates can leverage their expertise to provide design consultation services to businesses or individuals, offering advice on design strategies, material selection, and product development.
Furniture Production Manager: With a strong understanding of the production process, graduates can work in manufacturing, overseeing the production of furniture, managing timelines, ensuring quality control, and coordinating production teams.
Sustainable Designer: Given the growing importance of sustainability in design, graduates with a focus on eco-friendly practices can specialize in designing sustainable furniture and products, utilizing sustainable materials and processes to minimize environmental impact.
