Product design courses

Product design is a subject that is concerned with the efficient and effective generation and development of ideas, through a process that leads to new and improved products. For those who choose to study product design, disciplines can include lighting design, domestic appliance design, specialist sports equipment design, mobile phone design, computer design, the design of medical equipment and some elements of automotive design.

Typically, Product Design courses will include branding, and product designers are involved in finding methods of identifying consumer needs and aspirations as an approach to creating the most appropriate product, considering form, function and aesthetics.

Product design involves combining art, science and technology in various degrees to create three-dimensional goods. It involves finding ways of identifying consumer needs and aspirations as an approach to creating the most appropriate product design solutions. An awareness of future design trends, knowledge of a wide range of materials, and an understanding of costing and manufacturing processes is required, in order to meet the specific needs of manufacturers and other clients.

The Interactive Design Institute’s Product Design course provides the successful student with the means to enter this highly competitive but fulfilling and financially rewarding field.

Product designers design most objects that we use in our day-today lives as well as specialist products, for example medical equipment. Their aim is to improve the way that existing products work and look, and sometimes to produce them at a lower cost, as well as designing entirely new products.

Product designers work along-side collegues and clients as well as consulting with engineers, model makers and sales and marketing staff. They should understand technology, production methods and materials, and be able to meet deadlines and work within budgets.

Employers include manufacturing companies and design consultancies throughout the UK and overseas. New entrants face strong competition for jobs, but demand for experienced designers is high. New entrants usually need a degree or an HNC/HND in product design.

Salaries may range from around £17,000 to over £45,000.