what is studying product design (at uni) like?
I'm currently studying BTEC Level 3 engineering in year 12, and I'm interested in product design but want to learn more about the course. I haven't been doing much right now, and I feel like I should be applying for tons of work experience or working on some portfolio
Reply 1
I have the same question. I’m also thinking of going into product design and need help about what it will be like
Reply 2
Original post
by aonepiecefanI'm currently studying BTEC Level 3 engineering in year 12, and I'm interested in product design but want to learn more about the course. I haven't been doing much right now, and I feel like I should be applying for tons of work experience or working on some portfolio
Hello! I am Faye, one of the UG reps here on the student room. UAL's BA (Hons) Product and Industrial Design at Central Saint Martins would be one of the choices if you're coming from BTEC Level 3 Engineering. They accept qualifications like DMM at Extended Diploma, especially for subjects such as Design Technology. Your CAD and materials skills from units like Engineering Product Design and Manufacture will really stand out in their technical studies focus.
The course covers three areas: Physical, Digital, and Hybrid design. In Year 1, you'll build essential skills like research, sketching, model making, and CAD across different platforms. After that, you'll explore future thinking, human-centered design, and work on industry projects.
You'll participate in studio-based units combining practical making, including 2D and 3D CAD, materials, and manufacturing, with critical reflection.
For your portfolio, you can transform your BTEC work into UAL-style portfolio pages by including user research, sketches, iterations, prototypes and reflections in your project. Do not worry too much about experiene, a short placement or self-initiated project is enough. UAL value your ideas and adaptability!
In your portfolio, you can include drawings, sketchbook pages, research, 3D work, photos of models, sculptures or props and videos / film. They don’t expect everything to be “perfect.” They want to see your process and experimentation and how you develop an idea from research to final outcome.
You can check out the subject page here:
https://www.arts.ac.uk/subjects/3d-design-and-product-design/undergraduate/ba-hons-product-and-industrial-design-csm
UAL hosts portfolio review events, or online advice sessions which might be helpful for you tailor your application and get feedback on your work. I thought I would link the UAL portfolio advice page here: https://www.arts.ac.uk/study-at-ual/apply/portfolio-advice
There are also many online product design short course by UAL which you can find here: https://www.arts.ac.uk/subjects/3d-design-and-product-design/short-courses/product-design
If you have any questions about UAL life, the teaching style, or the application process for product design, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, I’m happy to help with insights from the UAL perspective.
Best wishes,
Faye
UAL student rep
Reply 3
Original post
by JessiekaneI have the same question. I’m also thinking of going into product design and need help about what it will be like
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