Product Design and Innovation

Course overview

Unleash your creativity with our product design and innovation degree. Immerse yourself in this future-focused discipline, blending innovation and engineering expertise. Complete Individual and group projects and challenges, set by real companies, tutors and yourself. Cultivate practical problem-solving skills, tackle briefs in collaboration with diverse teams of engineers and designers, mimicking the typical working world with a wide range of technical and professional capabilities. Upon completion of this course you will be technically skilled, inspired, and at the forefront of design innovation.

“My favourite part of the course has been bringing my ideas into reality, transforming any idea I have into a real, physical product. Another favourite part of the course was presentations, as they help to build up your confidence, and also you get to see everyone present and be really enthusiastic about the projects they’ve been working on.”

Marco Sousa Lau

Lead Designer Dyson

Why Product Design and Innovation at Aston University?

Teaching Quality

Product Design ranked 1st in the UK for teaching quality The Sunday Times 2025

Excellent graduate prospects

Manufacturing and Production Engineering ranked 1st in the UK for graduate prospects Complete University Guide 2024

Ranked 12th in the UK overall

Product Design, Guardian University Guide, 2025

Ranked 24th in the world

Aston University is ranked 24th in the world for reducing inequalities

Top 10% in the world

Aston University placed in the top 10% of all 5,663 institutions evaluated

Product Design at Aston University

Final year student Mica Mehta talks about her experience of studying product design at Aston.

Careers and Placements

Whatever your Aston University journey, we're here to help. Discover what's possible with Careers and Placements.

Course description

BSc (Hons) Product Design and Innovation

To design successfully is to create something new, different and better. When you look at a product, do you sometimes think ‘I could have designed that better’? If you answered yes, would like to work in an innovative and enterprising sector and gain the skills necessary to create the future, this could be the course for you.

What we will provide
A wealth of opportunities are available to you on this course. We’ll ensure you benefit from strong industry connections through our industry club and gain real experience working on design challenges through Design Factory, a commercial enterprise offering design consulting services. We’ll provide you with membership to the Institute of Engineering Designers as well as access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks. All design students are welcome to work, create and collaborate in the Design Studio with 24/7 access to equipment, facilities, and materials that will bring your ideas to life.

We are an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry. To find out more, visit here.

It is not mandatory to bring your own device for this course, however if you choose to do so please note will need laptop specifications of i5 or above (or AMD equivalent).

What you will provide
As a student on our product design and innovation degree, you'll be required to think differently, reimagine solutions and empathise with the audiences you’ll be creating for. You must embrace challenges and have a willingness to grow through practice. Fuel your passion for innovation and emerge from your time with us as a visionary ready to shape the future.

What skills we teach
On this course you will learn a variety of crucial technical skills such as Computer Aided Design, sketching, modelmaking, clay modelling and mechatronics. You will thrive with the tools needed to create fresh innovations. With a combination of hand and digital sketching, you will develop prototypes to test and evaluate your creations. You will evolve your model-making skills with 3D printing, foam, and clay. Whilst enhancing your ability to work in a team, communicate well, and critically think to solve technical challenges.

Placement year
During your placement year, you will gain invaluable industry experience through our well-established links with companies and excellent Careers & Placements team. This practical exposure enhances your understanding of product design and will prepare you for a successful career in the field.

Career prospects
Recent graduates of our course have progressed to enjoy excellent careers. Many have secured positions through their placement year, with notable companies like JLR, Seymour Powell, Dyson, and Mattel. Lots of our alumni have gone on to excel in diverse roles, including Creative Directors, while others advance into managerial and leadership positions with design at the core.

Professional accreditation
*This programme is accredited by the Institute of Engineering Designers (IED). As part of the standard process, it is currently undergoing re-accreditation, with confirmation expected before September 2025.

How you will learn

This degree adopts a dynamic teaching style with 100% coursework assessment. Focusing on studio, workshop and project-based learning, you will engage in theoretical, practical and applied exercises. Our community-based approach encourages collaboration in a design studio setting, whilst theory-based elements are covered through classic lectures, the focus remains on hands-on, experiential learning.

There is a plethora of extra-curricular activities to enrich your time with us at Aston University. You can participate in Engineering Without Borders, and contribute to the Formula Student team where you will compete at Silverstone. The Design Factory will offer summer internships and projects, while Design Live Challenges can provide paid opportunities to work on real company briefs. You may also like to join societies like WEST, CAD, and Engineering to enhance your networking. The Industry Club fosters industry connections. Finally, the Aston Inspire design show allows you to showcase your design-focused final-year projects.

Facilities

Our product design and innovation degree boasts world-leading facilities to support your creative pursuits. Our Design Studio provides a collaborative space for ideation and innovation. Equipped with state-of-the-art Wacom tablets, interactive sketching becomes seamless. The Model Shop offers 3D printing capabilities, laser cutting, and water jet cutting, enabling you to transform your designs into tangible prototypes. Additionally, our Maker Space brings the prototyping techniques together into a vibrant creative place. These cutting-edge facilities will empower you to bring your visions to life with precision and craftsmanship.
Your learning and support is always at the forefront of all we do whilst you can benefit from PAL (Peer Assisted Learning) which offers assistance from students in higher year groups to those in lower years. Our dedicated technicians provide excellent support for team projects and practical sessions. Personal tutors, including year tutors and program directors, ensure you have regular scheduled meetings throughout the year. Additionally, you will have access to wider university support services, ensuring your overall well-being and academic success.

coursepage_product design_students_studio_academic

coursepage_product design_students_studio

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Entry requirements

A Levels
BBC including one STEM subject
BCC including one STEM subject (with an EPQ or Core Maths* at grade B)
CCC when including one STEM subject (contextual offer)

List of STEM subjects: Art or Design, Maths, Further Maths, Statistics, Physics, Design Technology, Chemistry, Engineering Science, Computer Science, Biology, Electronics.

*List of core maths qualifications we accept: AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies, City & Guilds Certificate in Using and Applying Mathematics, NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics for Everyday Life, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Problem Solving, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Reasoning, Pearson Edexcel Certificate in Mathematics in Context, WJEC Eduqas Certificate in Mathematics for Work and Life and Level 3 Core Math.

Contextual offers
Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (Science/Technical/Engineering type): DDM.
1 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (Science/Technical/Engineering type): M, plus 2 A-levels at grade B.
1 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (any subject): M, plus 2 A-levels at grade B including an accepted STEAM subject.
2 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificates or Subsidiary Diplomas (Science/Technical/Engineering type): DM, plus 1 A-level at grade B.
2 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificates or Subsidiary Diplomas (any subject): DM, plus 1 A-level at grade B in an accepted STEAM subject.
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and Diploma (Science/Technical/Engineering type): DM, plus 1 A-level at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and Diploma (any subject): DM, plus 1 A-levels at grade B in an accepted STEAM subject.
BTEC Level 3 Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (Science/Technical/Engineering type): DM, plus 2 A-levels at grade B.
BTEC Level 3 Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM, plus 2 A-levels at grade B including an accepted STEAM subject.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade of Distinction.
Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade Distinction, plus a A-Level at Grade C OR a BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma/National Extended Certificate at grade Merit.
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted.

29 points overall with 5, 5, 4 including 1 STEAM Higher Level subjects.

We accept the QAA-recognised Access Diploma which must consist of at least 15 Distinctions and 30 Merits at level 3; including at least 30 credits from STEAM subject units.

Please note that we do not accept the English and Maths components within the Access qualification and you must meet the GCSE entry requirement.

The following T levels are accepted qualifications for this course:

Building Services Engineering for Construction Grade D
Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction Grade D
Onsite Construction Grade D
Digital Business Services Grade D
Digital Production, Design and Development Grade D
Digital Support Services Grade D
Health Grade D
Healthcare Science Grade D
Science Grade D
Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing Grade D
Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control Grade D
Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing Grade D
Finance Grade D
Craft and Design Grade D

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement each applicant must meet a GCSE (level 2) requirements:

GCSE English Language or Literature minimum grade C/4
GCSE Mathematics minimum grade C/4

Non-standard qualifications

Degree

Year 1 entry: We may consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a 1st year degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent Level 3) requirements as listed. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 2 entry: Please note that second-year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up to the discretion of the admissions team and tutor. Applications are only considered if there is space in that year of the programme.
Typically, applicants for second-year entry must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have successfully passed (or be expected to pass) your first year with 120 credits on an equivalent programme at another recognised university with very similar module content.

The equivalency of the programme is reviewed by the Admissions Tutor and you will be required to provide an official copy of the programme specification of this. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 3: We will not be able to consider any application for Year 3.

Course objectives

Provides you with appropriately structured curricula, combining teaching and learning in theoretical design issues with practical skills training.
Encourage, through a practical approach, you to have a passion for design and an enthusiasm for learning.
Provide a grounding in the principles of design practice, concept development, manufacturing and relevant technology.
Provide underpinning engineering principles and technology to support product design work.
Produce capable graduates who are highly valued by a range of employers in both the product design and design engineering sectors.
Offer you the opportunity to obtain relevant industrial experience by providing the option of a sandwich placement year.
To produce capable graduate designers who are highly valued by employers.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Introduction to Design	15
Design Innovation	15
Introduction to Design-Build-Test	15
Introductory Programming for Engineering and Physical Sciences	15
Electronics 1	15
Engineering for Design	15
Power Skills	15
Interdisciplinary Design Project	15
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Be able to demonstrate an understanding of fundamental mathematics, programming, science and technology underpinning management and product design.
Have the knowledge of fundamental design, innovation, concepts, principles, and methodologies of product design.
Be able to utilise the basic design techniques appropriate in the design sectors.
Be able to demonstrate the ability to select, test and exploit materials and manufacturing processes in the synthesis of product design solutions.
Be able to demonstrate the ability to analyse and solve simple design problems.
Be able to demonstrate the ability to evaluate and integrate information from a variety of sources.
Evaluate and interpret data using industry-standard methods and communicate information effectively to ensure data-driven approaches to decision-making in solving complex problems.
Use sustainable development strategies that reflect a deep understanding of the Circular Economy, Net-Zero strategies, Design and Systems Thinking, and Global Social Responsibility and lead to solutions that are ethically sound and globally relevant.
Employ integrated problem-solving skills to analyse challenging and multifaceted problems considering professional, social, and ethical contexts.

Year 2 modules

In your second year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Advanced Design Innovation	15
Design for Manufacture	15
Design Communication	15
Engineering for Design 2	15
Product Experience 1	15
Integrated Design Project	30
CDIO Team Project	15
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Demonstrate visual literacy and apply a variety of software including 3D solid modelling.
Utilise design for manufacturing and material selection as part of the design process
Demonstrate modelling skills using appropriate prototyping processes.
Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate a complicated design problem, and create a solution to the design problem (being aware of business constraints and environmental impact) and evaluate the design and make improvements.
Demonstrate the ability to balance engineering constraints with the design intent.
Demonstrate the application of technology and engineering principles related to design solutions.

Placement year modules

If you opt for an integrated placement year, you will spend your third year on placement. You will be fully supported throughout the process by our award-winning Careers and Placements team.

Placement Year

Module Title	Credits
EPS Placement Year	120

Placement year outcomes

On successful completion of the placement year, you will be able to:

Develop an understanding of business and the relevant commercial environment and/or intercultural study and their role within it
Gain knowledge of key aspects of good practice relevant to industry and/or intercultural study context
Develop new knowledge and understanding appropriate to the industrial, business, study or research sector related to degree programme.
Communicate effectively in a variety of ways in a professional and industrial environment and/or in an intercultural study context

Final year modules

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Design Sprint	15
Design Futures	15
Product Experience 2	15
Professional Engineering Practice	15
Design Innovation Final Year Project	60
Total	120

Final year outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

Use fundamental concepts, theories, innovation principles and methodologies of product design into problem-solving process.
Demonstrate innovation, creativity, consultancy, time and resource management and user centred problem solving skills.
Demonstrate the ability to learn independently and to facilitate professional development.
Demonstrate a critical understanding of the role of the product designer in society including professional skills, ethics and sustainability.
Demonstrate the relevant use and application of technology in the design process.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

International students can enter at Year 2 of this course having completed an undergraduate year one programme at the required academic level with approved teaching partners ONCAMPUS Aston or NCUK.

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£9,535*
During placement year:	£1,250

International students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£21,500
During placement year:	£2,500

UK students (Home Undergraduate):

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2025/26 will be £9,535 (subject to the passing of legislation implementing the Government’s policy to increase the maximum tuition fee from £9,250, payable by Home Undergraduate students on full-time courses). The fee for the placement year is £1,250.

International students (Overseas Undergraduate):

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2025/26 will be £21,500. The fee for the placement year is £2,500.

All students:

The duration of your programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions and subject at all times to the maximum tuition fee caps set by Government from time to time. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

The way we assess you will be diverse, blending presentation, portfolio and prototype submissions. Assessing you through different practices will help gain an overall understanding of your knowledge.

Career prospects

Our graduate prospects for our product design, enterprise, and innovation students are vast and hugely exciting. Previous graduates have excelled at renowned companies such as Bentley Motors Concepts, Gas Data Limited, Fitch, Invizil, IBM, Samsung, Goodfish Ltd, DK, Elestial, and Gilroy. These roles span across design engineering, UX/UI design, product management, technical sales support, and digital design, reflecting the diverse and promising career prospects available for you.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Why study Product Design, Enterprise and Innovation at Aston?

If you want to develop the skills and experience you need to build a successful career in product design, which combines a thorough understanding of engineering principles alongside practical project work, this could be the course for you.

How will a placement year benefit me?

We think that the knowledge you gain through your studies are best applied to real life and the most effective way to do this is by working in a company. As well as the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, you’ll also gain invaluable communication and team skills.

We have excellent links with industry and will help to arrange this placement for you.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham