Industrial/product designer : Entry requirements

Most industrial/product designers have a degree, foundation degree or HNC/D, usually in product design. There are many courses in universities and colleges that offer a design element as part of a general design or technology studies.

The following degree/HND subjects in particular may increase your chances:

• spatial design;
• 3D design;
• product design;
• industrial design.

Courses that include a relevant placement year or those with significant practical design content are particularly useful. Entry without a degree or HND is extremely unlikely.

A postgraduate or Masters qualification might be an advantage in certain sectors, especially when working with European customers and competitors.

Pre-entry experience is highly desirable. Experience gained through an industrial placement, freelance work, design competitions or a specific project gives a distinct advantage.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• a high degree of technical knowledge balanced with creative ability and a hands-on approach;
• visual and spatial awareness;
• commercial awareness;
• computer literacy (three-dimensional conceptual ability and CAD (computer-aided design);
• knowledge of industrial processes/techniques and standards;
• communication and customer-facing skills;
• the ability to cope with the pressure of deadlines;
• a willingness to build and maintain positive working relationships and to share information with others;
• determination to achieve an end result, and optimism and enthusiasm when things don't go to plan.

International mobility may be required when working for multinational manufacturers and may influence promotion prospects, as will foreign language ability. Be proactive from early on in your course by gaining experience and developing contacts in the industry. Get your portfolio checked by a design professional. Ensure that it has evidence of the breadth of your work and any specialist interests, and that it shows how your design ideas were conceived and developed.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.