UNIVERSITY OF SUSSEX · UNITED KINGDOM
Product Design (with an industrial placement year) BSc (Hons)
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS HW1F
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 15thUK ranking for Manufacturing and Production Engineering (Complete University Guide 2027)
- 9thUK ranking for student satisfaction in Manufacturing and Production Engineering (Complete University Guide 2027)
- Top 20UK ranking for Product Design (The Guardian University Guide 2026)
- SilverTEF 2023 rating for student experience and outcomes
- OptionalIndustrial placement year for enhanced employability
- Accreditedby the Institution of Engineering Designers
This BSc (Hons) in Product Design focuses on applying advanced mathematics and engineering principles, alongside human-centred methods, to design and evaluate material objects, systems, and environments. You will learn to create innovative products that address societal needs and behaviours, considering both current demands and future trends. The course emphasizes critical design thinking, research-informed solutions, and responsible prototyping and manufacturing models, with a strong focus on sustainability and the circular economy. You will be taught by experienced design experts and engage with industry professionals through live creative briefs, preparing you for diverse career paths in design, manufacturing, and the broader creative industries. The program also aligns with the Design Council's 'Skills for Planet Blueprint' for forward-thinking designers.
Curriculum
This is a single-honours course, allowing for in-depth focus on Product Design. The curriculum is structured across four years, including an optional industrial placement year. Modules are designed to build foundational knowledge and progressively introduce more complex concepts and practical skills. Students will engage with core modules covering research methods, drawing, materials, processes, and mathematics relevant to product design.
- Year 1
- Creative Research Methods for Design
- Drawing for Design
- Materials and Processes for Product Design
- Mathematics for Product Design
Careers
Graduates are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in design, manufacturing, and the broader creative industries. The course aims to equip students with industry-relevant skills, and successful alumni have gone on to win international design awards, launch their own products, and establish design studios.
- Product Designer
- Industrial Designer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Design Strategist
- Creative Industry Professional
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Product Design BSc (Hons)?
- The typical A-level requirement is ABB-BBB. You should also check the specific entry requirements for your country and qualifications on the University of Sussex website.
- What English language proficiency is required for international students?
- You need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component. If you don't have a current score, you can still apply, but any offer will likely be conditional on meeting this requirement.
- How long does the Product Design BSc (Hons) programme take?
- This is a four-year bachelor's degree, which includes an optional industrial placement year.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Please refer to the University of Sussex website for current international tuition fees. International Masters students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit.
- How do I apply for the Product Design BSc (Hons) programme?
- You should follow the standard university application process, which typically involves UCAS for UK applications or direct applications for international students where applicable. Ensure you check the academic and English language requirements.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from this programme?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Product Designer, Industrial Designer, or Design Strategist. Alumni have gone on to win awards and establish their own design studios.
Entry requirements
A-levelABB-BBB
IELTS6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component
Students can still apply without a current English language test score, but any offer received will typically be conditional on meeting the language requirement. English language qualifications should have been achieved within two years of the course start date.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University of Sussex website for current international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University of Sussex website for current home/domestic tuition fees.
LivingPlease refer to the University of Sussex website for estimated living and accommodation costs.
International Masters students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit. US citizens may be eligible for Federal Direct Loans.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the BSc (Hons) Product Design course.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, and proof of English language proficiency.
3. Submit ApplicationApply via the relevant portal (e.g., UCAS for UK applicants, or direct university application if specified for international students).
4. Await OfferApplications are reviewed, and successful candidates will receive an offer, which may be conditional.
5. Accept Offer and Prepare for ArrivalOnce an offer is accepted, prepare for enrolment, including visa applications if necessary, and accommodation.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Institution of Engineering Designers for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirements for Registered Product Designer (RProdDes).
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Product Design BSc (Hons)?
+
The typical A-level requirement is ABB-BBB. You should also check the specific entry requirements for your country and qualifications on the University of Sussex website.
What English language proficiency is required for international students?
+
You need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component. If you don't have a current score, you can still apply, but any offer will likely be conditional on meeting this requirement.
How long does the Product Design BSc (Hons) programme take?
+
This is a four-year bachelor's degree, which includes an optional industrial placement year.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Please refer to the University of Sussex website for current international tuition fees. International Masters students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit.
How do I apply for the Product Design BSc (Hons) programme?
+
You should follow the standard university application process, which typically involves UCAS for UK applications or direct applications for international students where applicable. Ensure you check the academic and English language requirements.
What are the career prospects after graduating from this programme?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Product Designer, Industrial Designer, or Design Strategist. Alumni have gone on to win awards and establish their own design studios.