Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme covers the full product design process, from insight-led research and concept generation to detailed design, prototyping and specification for manufacture. Early study focuses on core skills—sketching, model-making, materials and manufacturing awareness, 3D CAD and visual communication—supported by modules in design thinking and human-centred research methods.

Progressing through the course you will tackle more complex briefs that layer ergonomics, sustainability, materials technology and production constraints. You will learn digital modelling and parametric design, rapid prototyping (3D printing, CNC and laser cutting), moulding and casting techniques, and workshop practices for metals, plastics and timber.

The final stage centres on a major individual honours project, where students research a real-world problem, develop a coherent design outcome and produce professional-quality prototypes and technical documentation. Throughout the degree you work on studio projects, live briefs with industry partners and collaborative interdisciplinary activities to build a professional portfolio.

• Core studio projects in concept development and visualisation
• 3D CAD and digital design (industry-standard modelling and rendering software)
• Materials, manufacturing processes and design for manufacture
• Prototyping: traditional workshop skills and digital fabrication
• User-centred design, ergonomics and design research methods
• Sustainability, life-cycle thinking and design for the circular economy
• Professional practice, enterprise and portfolio development
• Final major project demonstrating concept, prototype and technical specification

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an appropriate secondary-school qualification or equivalent, such as A-levels, BTECs or an international equivalent. Admissions typically consider a combination of academic qualifications and a creative portfolio that shows ideation, sketching, model-making or CAD work.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved test or recognised qualification. Practical experience or a background in art & design, engineering or technology can be advantageous. Mature and part-time applicants are welcome and will be assessed on the strength of qualifications, experience and portfolio.

Specific evidence of numeracy and communication skills is often required; many applicants present GCSE-level English and Mathematics (or equivalents) as part of their profile. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview or to submit an expanded portfolio.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across product, industrial and applied design. Typical career paths include product designer, industrial designer, furniture or lighting designer, design researcher, CAD/modelling specialist, prototyping technician, packaging designer and user-experience roles that bridge physical and digital products.

Alumni work in design consultancies, manufacturing companies, start-ups and in-house design teams, or they set up independent studios. The degree also prepares students for postgraduate study in specialised design, engineering or innovation courses, and for roles in manufacturing management, procurement or product strategy where technical design knowledge is valued.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University combines a studio-focused teaching approach with hands-on access to workshops and digital fabrication facilities. Students benefit from industry-standard software and equipment, including CAD suites, 3D printers, CNC routers and traditional workshop tools, enabling rapid iteration from concept to physical prototype.

The course emphasizes employability through live briefs, industry collaboration and opportunities for work-based learning, helping students build a professional portfolio and commercial awareness. Teaching is delivered by staff with professional design experience and links to regional and national design networks, giving students exposure to real projects and potential graduate pathways.

Bournemouth’s creative campus environment, interdisciplinary links with related subject areas and support services for careers and enterprise make it a practical choice for students wanting a hands-on, professionally oriented product design education.