Program Overview

Introduction to Product Design (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)

The Product Design (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons) course is designed to introduce students to the skills needed to prepare for future studies in product design. The foundation year focuses on developing practical experience through real-world briefs, perfecting freehand drawing and sketchbook use, and learning about materials and fabrication.

Course Details

• UCAS code: H717
• Level of study: Foundation degree, Undergraduate
• Typical offer: 64 - 72 UCAS tariff points
• Start date: September 2026
• Duration: Four years full-time
• Attendance: Full-time
• Course delivery: On-campus (City Campus)

About this Course

This course has a strong focus on the technological side of design, including the making and manufacturing of products, systems, and services. It covers areas such as design engineering, electronics, robotics, mechatronic techniques, materials testing, and manufacturing. Students will analyze form and function in design, encouraging creativity while also exploring emerging trends like UX, smart technology, and sustainability.

Module Information

The course is structured into several modules, including:

• Exploring Design: Study renowned designs and designers while developing research abilities related to making and materials and drawing and seeing modules.
• Drawing and Seeing: Immerse yourself in the creation and use of sketchbooks, enhancing freehand drawing skills and using sketchbooks as a means of creative thinking.
• Materials and Making: Explore the properties, textures, cost, durability, and sustainability of various materials, engaging in hands-on activities to understand basic fabrication techniques.
• Future Living: Gain practical experience through hands-on drawing and making exercises, working collaboratively on initial design proposals and completing a portfolio to showcase creative solutions and teamwork skills.

Core Modules

Year One

• Introduction to Design: Develop an understanding of the key attributes of being a designer, applying safe working practices within studios and workshops.
• Design and Technical Communication: Develop awareness of design, furthering design skills and expanding on design communication as a tool to develop design processes.
• Technology for Designers: Expand understanding and consideration of technology relative to materials and production, electronics, electrical systems, and programming.

Year Two

• Professional Practice: Explore design's past, present, and future, getting hands-on experience through industry insights and discussions.
• Advanced Design and Technical Communication: Explore advanced communication techniques like sketches, renderings, models, and prototypes to enhance the design process.
• Technology, Society and Sustainable Futures: Get hands-on with real-world design challenges, working to tight deadlines and tackling issues designers face every day.

Year Three

• Exploration and Context: Dive into a topic you're passionate about, researching and creating a scoping document that highlights key findings.
• Commercial Project: Explore, model, research, propose, and develop ideas, concepts, and products through self-regulated projects.
• Self-Directed Project (Technology and Product Design): Explore, research, propose, and develop ideas, model, develop concepts and products through a chosen, self-regulated project.

Entry Requirements

UK Students

• Standard offer: 72 UCAS Tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent.
• GCSE English and Maths grade: C / 4.
• Contextual offers: Available based on background, experiences, and individual circumstances.

International Students

• Academic entry requirements: 72 UCAS Tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent.
• GCSE English and Maths grade: C / 4.
• English language requirements: See the English language requirements page for requirements for your subject and information on alternative tests and Pre-sessional English.

Fees and Funding

UK Students

• Tuition fee: ｣9,790 per year.
• Additional costs: Material costs for Product Design foundation year courses, approximately ｣250-｣700 depending on the year.

International Students

• Tuition fee: ｣17,950 per year.
• Scholarships: Available up to 50% of tuition fees.
• Living costs: Information available on the cost of living in Nottingham.

Careers and Employability

• Sandwich placement year: Opportunity to take a year-long, full-time placement in the design industry.
• Professional qualification: Successful completion of the placement year leads to an extra qualification the Diploma in Professional Practice.
• Employability team: Expert team providing personal support and advice on career planning.
• Course accreditation: Accredited by the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED), recognizing the quality and relevance of the course content to industry.

Campus and Facilities

• Studio space: Arkwright studio, a big, open, creative space for collaboration, individual work, and presentations.
• Specialist facilities: Access to rapid prototyping machinery, waterjet cutter, CNC router, laser and plasma cutters, and bandsaw machines.
• Dedicated resource centre: Available for private study, equipped with computers, large format plotters, and desk space, along with the latest and archived journals and publications.

Applying

• UK students: Apply through UCAS.
• International students: Apply through UCAS or the NTU Applicant Portal.
• Personal statement guidance: Available on the university's website.
• Application support: Contact the university for support with the application process.