Program Overview

Introduction to the Product Design and Innovation Foundation Programme

The Product Design and Innovation Foundation Programme at Aston University is designed to provide students with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for progression into the BSc Product Design and Innovation degree. This programme is ideal for students who want to develop a thorough understanding of engineering principles alongside practical project work.

Course Overview

The foundation programme introduces students to the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in the tech world. It provides a blend of academic modules, specific subject knowledge, and project-based learning, mimicking the real-life working world. Students will learn from experienced professionals and academics, using state-of-the-art facilities, including modern computer labs and Adobe Creative Campus software licenses.

Why Choose the Product Design and Innovation Foundation Programme at Aston University?

Aston University is ranked 1st in the UK for student satisfaction in Manufacturing and Production Engineering, according to the Complete University Guide 2026. The university has also been awarded the Gold standard for teaching excellence by the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) in 2023. Graduates from Aston University are among the highest paid in the country, with an average salary of ｣36,100 three years after graduating, according to the Longitudinal Education Outcomes 2025.

Course Objectives

The course objectives are to:

1. Provide students with the necessary fundamental skills and knowledge for progression into Stage 1 of study.
2. Develop transferable and communication skills required to be successful in further study.
3. Develop ethical and inclusive, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
4. Begin to develop global awareness, sustainability, and inclusive practice required in modern professional practice.

Modules

The foundation year modules include:

• Undergraduate Professional Skills
• Mathematics 1
• Introduction to Scientific Principles
• Industries of the Future
• Global Engineering Project
• Engineering Science Foundations
• Applied Physics Foundations
• Developing Client Relationships

Module Outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, students will be able to:

• Use mathematical principles to solve well-defined problems.
• Solve well-defined problems using technical and scientific concepts relevant to the framework of study.
• Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating inclusive, effective communication, and teamwork skills.
• Communicate discipline-relevant technical ideas and solutions effectively, in a variety of ways, to diverse audiences, using appropriate terminology.
• Conduct practical activities using appropriate equipment/tools, review data, and draw conclusions to support technical decision-making relevant to the framework of study.
• Discuss ethical and professional responsibilities, including stakeholder involvement, sustainability, safety, technical, EDI, and social factors.
• Collect, interpret, and present data from a variety of sources.
• Reflect on their own learning needs and successes.
• Demonstrate awareness of project management principles and methods.

Entry Requirements

The standard offer for A-levels is CCD. The EPQ offer is CDD and Level 3 Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) grade B. The Core Maths offer is CDD and Level 3 Core Maths Qualification grade B. Aston Ready (Widening participation) offer is DDD.

Fees and Scholarships

The annual tuition fee for UK students is ｣9,535. International students interested in a foundation programme should visit OnCampus Aston. Aston University offers a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Assessment

The assessment methods include presentations, coursework, quizzes, and some exams. The assessment methods will reflect the most effective and relevant way to review student performance for each module.

Career Prospects

Engineering and physical science skills are used in almost all aspects of modern lives, meaning that graduates in these areas are in high demand. Previous graduates have excelled at renowned companies such as Bentley Motors Concepts, Gas Data Limited, Fitch, Invizil, IBM, Samsung, Goodfish Ltd, DK, Elestial, and Gilroy. These roles span across design engineering, UX/UI design, product management, technical sales support, and digital design, reflecting the diverse and promising career prospects available.

Conclusion

The Product Design and Innovation Foundation Programme at Aston University provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in the tech world. With its strong focus on practical project work, state-of-the-art facilities, and experienced professionals, this programme is ideal for students who want to develop a successful career in product design and innovation.