OXFORD BROOKES UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
Furniture Design and Make FdA
Diploma · Taught in en · UCAS W261
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
€12k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Diploma
Level
- 3rdGuardian Graphic Design subject league ranking 2025
- 2 yearsFull-time duration
- City of Oxford CollegeLocation
- SeptemberStart date
This foundation degree in Furniture Design and Make, developed by Oxford Brookes University and delivered at City of Oxford College, is closely linked to the furniture industry. It aims to foster creativity in design and excellence in craftsmanship through work-related study. Located at the Rycotewood Furniture Centre, the program cultivates innovative furniture designers and makers by exploring materials and skills. It balances design, craft, and theory to produce graduates with excellent abilities, prepared for employment or further study. Students will develop a broad understanding of the processes involved in furniture design and craft. The course emphasizes practical skills, creative thinking, and hands-on making, preparing students for a career in the furniture industry or for progression to higher education.
Curriculum
The curriculum balances design, craft, and theory, preparing students for the furniture industry.
- Year One
- Introduction to Furniture Design and Make
- Graphic Communications and Visual Language
- CAD Programmes and Case Studies
- Craft Skills: Hand and Machine Processes
- Manufacturing Processes
- Theoretical Issues in Manufacturing and Material Culture
- Year Two
- Advanced Furniture Design and Project Development
- Material Exploration and Application
- Work-related Study Projects
- Materials Technology
- History of Furniture
- Sustainability in Design
- Extended Essay (Social Implications of Design)
Careers
Graduates are prepared for direct employment within the furniture industry or for further study.
- Furniture Designer
- Furniture Maker
- Craftsman
- Workshop Technician
- Design Assistant
Entry requirements
Relevant work experienceMinimum of 2 years full-time relevant work experience and a current role in an appropriate workplace setting, with evidence of ability to study at academic Level 4 and employer support/recommendation.
A-level and GCSEsMinimum of one A-level at grade C plus equivalent of 5 GCSE passes at grade C or above (including Maths and English Language), or recognised equivalent vocational qualification.
Art and Design FoundationAn Art Foundation course.
National DiplomaA National Diploma in General Art and Design.
City and Guilds DiplomaLevel 3 City and Guilds Diploma in Furniture.
Access to Higher EducationAccess to Art and Design.
IELTS6.0 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in reading and writing, and 5.5 in speaking and listening.
Mature students without formal qualifications are welcome if they have relevant experience. Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis, including through Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) for previous learning or experience (APL/APEL).
Fees
Tuition (international)£9,900 (for 2026/27)
Tuition (home)£7,700 (for 2026/27)
Living—
Tuition fees may increase in subsequent years for both home and international students. Home student fees may increase in line with government-determined inflationary measures. International student fees will be considered based on inflationary measures, university costs, government funding changes, and admissions statistics.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationApply through the appropriate channels, considering your individual circumstances and qualifications.
2. Portfolio Review and InterviewAll applicants will be interviewed and required to submit a portfolio. This demonstrates your understanding of the course and your suitability in terms of academic, artistic, and practical skills.
3. Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CATS)If you have prior learning or experience (APL/APEL), this will be assessed by the Faculty CATS committee and Programme Coordinator to determine your starting level.