Furniture & Product Design BA
Study of how functional objects and furniture are designed, developed, and manufactured, combining creativity, craftsmanship, materials knowledge, and user-centred design.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Enjoy designing physical products
Like hands-on creative work
Are interested in materials and craftsmanship
Want a career in design
Are detail-oriented
Popular Career Fields
Product & Industrial Design
Manufacturing & Production
Retail & Commercial Design
Architecture & Built Environment
Your Personality Might Be:
Problem-solver
Manufacturing & Production
Manufacturing-aware
Aesthetically driven
What is it?
What is Furniture & Product Design?
Furniture & Product Design focuses on designing everyday objects, furniture, and interior products that are functional, aesthetic, and user-focused.
You’ll learn how products are conceived, sketched, modelled, prototyped, and manufactured, working with materials such as wood, metal, plastics, textiles, and sustainable alternatives.
The degree blends creative thinking with technical skills, exploring ergonomics, materials, production processes, and contemporary design challenges.
It suits students who enjoy hands-on making, problem-solving, and designing objects that people interact with daily.
Why study Furniture & Product Design?
Course Summary
Study of how functional objects and furniture are designed, developed, and manufactured, combining creativity, craftsmanship, materials knowledge, and user-centred design.
What you'll study
If you’re interested in how objects are designed, made, and used, this degree offers a strong balance of creativity and practicality.
It helps you understand:
How form, function, and user needs shape design
Materials, sustainability, and manufacturing processes
Ergonomics and human-centred design
Craft, digital fabrication, and prototyping techniques
How design responds to social, environmental, and commercial contexts
Graduates develop a strong portfolio and versatile design skill set.
Skills You'll Gain
A Furniture & Product Design degree builds creative and technical skills including:
Design thinking and creativity – enabling you to generate and refine original ideas.
Technical and making skills – helping you work confidently with materials, tools, and fabrication methods.
Technical and making skills – helping you work confidently with materials, tools, and fabrication methods.
Digital design skills – including CAD, 3D modelling, and visualisation.
Digital design skills – including CAD, 3D modelling, and visualisation.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue careers in:
Furniture design and making
Product and industrial design
Interior product or spatial design
Design consultancy and innovation studios
Craft, bespoke design, or self-employment
Manufacturing, prototyping, or design development
Work Experiences & Placements
Many Furniture & Product Design degrees encourage or support industry experience.
Some courses offer placement years, live briefs, or industry-led projects, while others help students secure internships during holidays or alongside study.
Typical opportunities include:
Furniture design studios or workshops
Product design consultancies
Interior design or architecture practices
Manufacturing and fabrication companies
Sustainable design or materials-focused studios
Work experience helps students build professional networks and industry-ready portfolios.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels (or equivalent) in any subjects, although Art, Design, or Design & Technology subjects are helpful but not always required.
Personal Statement Tips
Show enthusiasm for designing objects and making things.
Discuss what inspires you (furniture, products, designers, materials).
Mention practical experience such as workshops, projects, or making.
Highlight creativity, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
What to do Next
Start building a portfolio with sketches, models, and finished pieces.
Experiment with materials and making techniques.
Visit design exhibitions, furniture shows, or museums.
Research courses with strong workshop facilities and industry links.
Wider Reading
The Design of Everyday Things – Don Norman
A classic introduction to user-centred and functional design.Materials and Design – Michael Ashby & Kara Johnson
A key text on materials selection and sustainable design.Furniture Design – Jim Postell
A practical guide to furniture design processes and techniques.How to Make Almost Anything – Neil Gershenfeld
An inspiring look at digital fabrication and making.Thinking Through Craft – Glenn Adamson
A thoughtful exploration of craft, making, and design practice.