Ulster University
UCAS Code: W260 | Bachelor of Design (with Honours) - BDes (Hon)
Entry requirements
A level
One of which should be either Art & Design or Technology & Design.
Overall profile of 55% (120 credit Access Course) (NI Access Course) Overall profile of 45 credits at Merit (60 credit Access Course) (GB Access Course)
GCSE/National 4/National 5
For full-time study, you must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first-degree course and hold a GCSE pass at Grade C/4 or above in English Language. Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Communication will be accepted as equivalent to GCSE English.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
Overall profile is minimum 24 points (including 12 at higher level).
96 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at higher level) to include English at H6 if studied at Higher level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
We will also accept smaller BTEC/OCR qualifications (i.e. Diploma or Extended Certificate / Introductory Diploma / Subsidiary Diploma) in combination with A Levels or other acceptable level 3 qualifications. To find out if the qualification you are applying with is a qualification we accept for entry, please check our Qualification Checker - https://www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements/equivalence We will also continue to accept QCF versions of these qualifications although grades asked for may differ. Check what grades you will be asked for by comparing the requirements above with the information under QCF in the Applied General and Tech Level Qualifications section of our Entry Requirements - https://www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements/undergraduate-entry-requirements
Scottish Advanced Higher
Scottish Higher
UCAS Tariff
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About this course
This course has alternative study modes. Contact the university to find out how the information below might vary.
BDes Hons Design is a dynamic studio-based programme offering specialisms in Product Design, Ceramics and Silversmithing & Jewellery.
The programme embraces an experimental philosophy that is driven by materiality, engaging in design processes that prioritise the act of making. It aims to foster the development of sustainable and unique design practices within the fields of Product Design, Ceramics and Silversmithing & Jewellery.
You will investigate new terrain for the design of products, objects, and artefacts by embracing traditional handmade processes alongside advances in technology to create new and innovative approaches.
The Product pathway, which may encompasses Product Design, Industrial Design, Furniture Design, Spatial Design, Service Design, and Critical Design, is grounded in human-centered design and investigates the production of products, objects, and services that address consumer needs as well as emerging and speculative challenges.
The Ceramics and Silversmithing & Jewellery pathways are rooted within a design-through-making methodology, aiding in the development of experimental approaches that are often driven by personal responses to the world around us.
The sustainability and ethicality of production pose significant challenges to each of our disciplines. You will investigate how this challenge influences various manufacturing methods, including traditional craftsmanship, large-scale production, and new and emerging technologies.
You will learn core design methodologies encompassing design thinking, research, concept development, and acquire a comprehensive understanding of materials through practical experimentation and prototyping. Additionally, you will develop the skills to proficiently convey your design objectives utilizing visual communication, 3D CAD, and CAM.
You will be taught by a range of specialist academic staff who have national and international profiles as designers, makers, and artists. You will gain exposure to manufacturing processes by engaging in live client briefs, industry visits, and participating in workshops and lectures conducted by both national and international designers, artists, and makers.
Individual studio spaces are located adjacent to specialist state-of-the-art workshops. Workshops with dedicated technical support offer facilities for ceramics, plaster, metal and wood, plastics, silversmithing & jewellery and digital making facilities for CNC routing, 3D printing and laser cutting.
The programme is across two floors of the Belfast School of Art, in close proximity to the above workshops, allowing for interaction and collaboration of ideas, materials and expertise.
Our objective is to produce designers and makers who are critical thinkers, effective communicators, and highly skilled makers, positioning them as leaders in their disciplines.
Tuition fees
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What students say
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Design studies
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After graduation
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Design studies
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