Case studies…

Industrial/product designer: Entry requirements

Entry requirements for product designer and industrial designer are not, in every case, interchangeable; you should view job titles with caution, as organisations apply their own particular definitions of functions.

Generally, greater emphasis on engineering-related knowledge and skills suggests that an engineering qualification is required and the title 'industrial designer' or 'design engineer' is more appropriate. Other roles place more emphasis on the artistic and creative input of the designer (without the need for specialised engineering knowledge) and in these cases the title 'product designer' is more relevant. That said, due to the multidisciplinary nature of the work in some design consultancies, and especially some in-house design teams (for example, large automotive industry employers), a range of degree subjects may be acceptable for broad entry to product design work. An in-house team may consist of industrial designers (with specialist engineering qualifications) working alongside creative product designers (whose strengths lie in generating new ideas and concepts).

Arts and design subjects are highly relevant, although a degree or HND in an engineering discipline with design content is sometimes more acceptable. BA degrees are usually more art and design focused (for product design) whereas BSc degrees are more technical (industrial design).

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

spatial design;
3-D 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.

Entry is often achieved through personal contacts and is highly competitive. 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.

It is illegal for employers to discriminate against candidates on the grounds of age, gender, race, disability, sexual orientation or religious faith. For more information on equality and diversity in the job market see Handling Discrimination.

For more information see work experience and find courses and research.

Advert disclaimer

AGCAS