MBA Masters of Business Administration
The MBA in Leadership at Bath Spa University is structured to provide a comprehensive u...
BA (Hons) Product Design
Locksbrook campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Product Design program at Bath Spa University is a three-year, full-time course providing a stimulating and collaborative learning environment within dedicated design studios and workshops. It is structured to progressively build foundational design skills, visual communication techniques, and material understanding in the first year, encourage exploration of different design methodologies and user-centered approaches in the second, and culminate in self-directed major design projects, professional practice studies, and a public degree show in the final year. Students benefit from dedicated studio space, access to a wide range of prototyping and manufacturing equipment (including 3D printing, laser cutting, and traditional workshop tools), regular individual tutorials with experienced design practitioners and academics, group critiques that foster critical dialogue, and opportunities for collaborative projects. A key element involves encouraging students to develop a strong understanding of user needs, market trends, and the technical feasibility of their designs, while fostering their creative vision and problem-solving abilities.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Product Design program is designed to provide a broad and in-depth engagement with the field. The first year typically introduces core design principles, drawing and sketching skills, model making, and basic digital design software. The second year focuses on developing user research methodologies, concept development, prototyping techniques, and design for manufacture. The final year centers on the development and realization of a substantial product design project that reflects the student's individual interests and professional aspirations, supported by modules on professional practice, design management, and sustainability. Students will engage in user research, concept generation, sketching and rendering, 3D modeling, prototyping, materials exploration, design for manufacture analysis, and presentation skills. Assessment is primarily through project-based coursework, including design proposals, visual presentations, prototypes, technical drawings, and the final degree show.
Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Product Design program at Bath Spa University benefits from a research-informed learning environment within the Bath School of Design. Faculty members are actively engaged in research and professional practice across various areas of product design, including sustainable design, user experience design, design for healthcare, and the history and theory of product innovation. This informs the curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to current design trends, innovative technologies, and critical perspectives on the social and environmental responsibilities of product designers. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests through project briefs and written assignments, fostering a critical and intellectual engagement with the field.
Industry Engagement: Bath Spa University's BA (Hons) Product Design program actively fosters connections with the professional design industry. The program may facilitate guest lectures by practicing product designers, design consultants, and manufacturers, providing students with valuable insights into current industry practices and career pathways. Students often have opportunities to participate in live project briefs set by industry partners, design competitions, and visits to design studios and manufacturing facilities. The curriculum includes professional practice modules that equip students with essential skills for the workplace, such as project management, client communication, intellectual property, and understanding industry standards.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Product Design program at Bath Spa University incorporates a global perspective by exploring diverse design traditions, cultural influences on product aesthetics and functionality, and international design trends. The curriculum may include the study of design history from various cultural contexts, discussions on global sustainability challenges in product development, and an awareness of international design fairs and publications. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a global learning environment, fostering discussions and collaborations across different cultural perspectives on product design. Furthermore, the program may touch upon topics such as the impact of globalization on manufacturing and consumption, and the role of product design in addressing global challenges related to sustainability and social equity.
Location
Locksbrook campus
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17670
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.
- DET: A minimum overall score of 110.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses.
International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.
Undergraduate Scholarships: For undergraduate international students, Bath Spa University offers scholarships that range in value and are awarded to high-achieving students. These scholarships are intended to provide financial assistance to those who demonstrate excellent academic performance and commitment to their studies.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.
External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
Graduates from the dynamic and human-centered BA (Hons) Product Design program at Bath Spa University develop a highly valuable and versatile skillset, positioning them for a wide range of fulfilling careers within the design and manufacturing industries. The program's emphasis on creativity, technical proficiency, and user-centered design equips graduates for diverse roles in shaping the products of tomorrow.
Product Designer: Creating and developing new products, from initial concept to final production, considering user needs and market trends.
Industrial Designer: Focusing on the aesthetics, functionality, and manufacturability of mass-produced products.
Design Consultant: Working with various clients to provide expert product design services and strategic design thinking.
User Experience (UX) Designer: Focusing on the user's interaction with a product, ensuring ease of use and a positive experience.
Sustainable Product Designer: Specializing in creating environmentally responsible and ethically sourced products.
CAD Technician/Designer: Utilizing computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and 3D models for product development and manufacturing.
Model Maker/Prototyper: Creating physical models and prototypes to test and refine product designs.
Design Researcher: Conducting user research and market analysis to inform the product design process.
Packaging Designer: Creating innovative and functional packaging solutions that align with brand identity and sustainability goals.
Further Study (MA/MSc in Product Design, Industrial Design, or related fields): Pursuing postgraduate studies to specialize further and enhance career prospects in specific areas of product design or design research.
