Industrial Design BA

Industrial Design is the process of designing and developing products that are both functional and visually appealing. It combines creativity, engineering, and user-centred thinking to shape everything from everyday objects and furniture to advanced technology and transport systems.

A Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design (BA or BSc) blends artistic design with scientific and technical knowledge. Students learn to research user needs, prototype new products, and work across digital and physical design environments. The degree prepares graduates to design innovative, sustainable, and practical solutions for real-world challenges.

Why Study Industrial Design?

There are many reasons why students choose to study Industrial Design:

• An interest in how products are conceived, designed, and manufactured.

  
  

• The opportunity to combine creativity, design thinking, and engineering principles.

  
  

• Hands-on experience with 3D modelling, prototyping, and digital design software.

  
  

• A focus on sustainability, user experience, and emerging technologies.

  
  

• Access to studios, workshops, and advanced fabrication facilities.

  
  

• Excellent career prospects in design, product development, and innovation.

  
  

• Industrial Design appeals to students who are imaginative, analytical, and enjoy problem-solving through design.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a BA or BSc in Industrial Design typically takes three years of full-time study. Some universities offer a four-year version that includes a professional placement or a year abroad.

A typical course structure includes:

Year 1: Introduction to design principles, drawing, materials, and manufacturing processes. Students learn about 2D and 3D visual communication, human factors, and concept development.

Year 2: Intermediate study in computer-aided design (CAD), ergonomics, sustainable design, and product prototyping. Students undertake design projects exploring usability and innovation.

Year 3: Advanced design projects and professional practice. Students create a major final-year project or product prototype, showcasing their design process and technical ability.

Many programmes include industry collaborations, internships, and competitions with design firms or manufacturing companies.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary between universities but typically include one of the following:

• A Levels: Often including Art and Design, Design Technology, Physics, or Mathematics.

  
  

• BTEC: A relevant Extended Diploma in Product Design, Engineering, or Art and Design.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Including Higher Level subjects in Design, Science, or Mathematics.

  
  

• Other qualifications: Foundation Diploma in Art and Design or equivalent international qualifications.

  
  

• Portfolio: Applicants are usually required to submit a portfolio showcasing design and technical work.

  
  

• English language proficiency: Required for applicants whose first language is not English.

  
  

Some universities offer a foundation year for applicants needing to strengthen their technical or creative skills.

Teaching and Assessment

Industrial Design degrees combine creative studio practice with technical and theoretical learning. Students learn through:

• Lectures, seminars, and tutorials

  
  

• Design workshops and lab sessions

  
  

• Studio projects and design critiques

  
  

• CAD and digital fabrication classes

  
  

• Industry-led projects and placements

  
  

• Assessment methods typically include:

  
  

• Design portfolios and sketchbooks

  
  

• Technical reports and project documentation

  
  

• 3D models and prototypes

  
  

• Presentations and design reviews

  
  

• A final-year major design project or exhibition

  
  

• The emphasis is on creativity, problem-solving, and technical execution.

Skills You Will Develop

A degree in Industrial Design develops a blend of creative, technical, and professional skills, including:

• Concept generation and creative problem-solving.

  
  

• 2D and 3D design communication.

  
  

• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and rapid prototyping.

  
  

• Materials science and manufacturing processes.

  
  

• Ergonomics and human-centred design.

  
  

• Research, analysis, and project management.

  
  

• Sustainability and environmental awareness.

  
  

• Teamwork and communication skills.

  
  

These skills prepare graduates for diverse roles across design, engineering, and innovation industries.

Career Prospects

Industrial Design graduates are in demand across a wide range of sectors, from consumer goods to automotive and technology industries. Many also pursue postgraduate study or move into design consultancy or entrepreneurship.

Typical career paths include:

• Industrial or product designer

  
  

• Design engineer or CAD specialist

  
  

• UX/UI designer or user experience researcher

  
  

• Furniture or interior product designer

  
  

• Sustainable design consultant

  
  

• Model maker or prototype developer

  
  

• Project or design manager

  
  

• Innovation and design strategist

Employers value Industrial Design graduates for their creativity, technical precision, and ability to bridge design and engineering disciplines.

Tips for Prospective Students

• Develop drawing, sketching, and visualisation skills to communicate design ideas.

  
  

• Learn basic 3D modelling software such as SolidWorks, Rhino, or Fusion 360.

  
  

• Build a portfolio that showcases design process, research, and problem-solving.

  
  

• Stay up to date with design trends, sustainability, and emerging materials.

  
  

• Gain experience with practical making, model-building, or fabrication.

  
  

• Attend design exhibitions, such as the London Design Festival or New Designers, for inspiration and networking.

Course Variations

Universities may offer several related or specialist Industrial Design degrees, such as:

• Industrial Design (General): Covering design, innovation, and manufacturing processes.

  
  

• Product Design: Focusing on everyday products and user-centred design.

  
  

• Industrial Design Engineering: Blending design creativity with engineering and materials science.

  
  

• 3D Design and Innovation: Exploring creative approaches to physical product design.

  
  

• Sustainable Design: Concentrating on environmental impact and circular design principles.

  
  

• Design for Manufacture: Integrating industrial processes with design thinking.

  
  

• Year Abroad or Placement Year: Offering international experience or professional internships.

Recommended Wider Reading for Aspiring Industrial Design Students

For students considering or beginning a degree in Industrial Design, the following books and resources offer valuable insights and inspiration:

“The Design of Everyday Things” by Don Norman – A classic introduction to user-centred design.

“Sketching: Drawing Techniques for Product Designers” by Koos Eissen and Roselien Steur – A visual guide to effective design sketching.

“Cradle to Cradle” by William McDonough and Michael Braungart – A key text on sustainable design and manufacturing.

“Designing Design” by Kenya Hara – A philosophical exploration of design thinking and aesthetics.

“Product Design and Development” by Karl Ulrich and Steven Eppinger – A comprehensive look at the design and production process.

Dezeen and Core77 – Leading online platforms for industrial and product design news.