COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons)Product Design degree at Cardiff Met develops students into creative and practical problem solvers capable of responding to real-world needs and challenges. In the first year, students explore the fundamentals of visualisation, presentation, materials, and processes, while gaining an understanding of how product designers shape human interaction with technology and address social, cultural, economic, and environmental issues. Core academic research skills are developed through modules on research methods and interdisciplinary collaboration, laying the foundation for independent thought and critical analysis. In the second year, students build on these skills through focused design projects, developing expertise in areas such as usability, market-focused design, material systems, and technical conceptualisation. The curriculum encourages students to define their individual specialism while applying creative problem-solving in real-world contexts, tackling 21st century challenges and understanding stakeholder needs. The research proposal module prepares students for their final year by strengthening analytical and research capabilities. In the third year, students advance their creative practice and professional readiness by undertaking briefs from national or international competitions or addressing market needs, synthesising technical, conceptual, and practical knowledge. Modules on positioning in practice and contribution ensure that graduates reflect on their skills and experiences, emerging as confident, employable, and adaptable product design professionals prepared for industry, entrepreneurship, or further study.