This one year programme is designed to be a diagnostic introduction to contemporary 3-dimensional (3D) design, for example: interior design, product design including jewellery and furniture design. During the course you will have the opportunity to develop methodologies for idea generation and strategies for contemporary making. You will be exposed to new materials employed within the 3D design field like Jesmonite. In addition you will engage in contextual understanding of European design and 3D Design from various cultures. The course is run by design practitioners in the purpose built South Bank Arts Centre. The course is supported by workshops delivered by guest lecturers, cultural visits abroad to Europe and American cities. In addition, we show at several design exhibitions such as New Designers in London. On completion of the 3D Design programme you will have the opportunity to progress to the one year Higher National Diploma in Interior Design or the one year Higher National Diploma in Product Design.
Entry requirements
You will need:
- 32-48 UCAS points with some art, design and media element OR
- Art & Design BTEC Level 3 Diploma OR
- Art & Design Foundation Diploma (Pre-Degree) OR
- Equivalent Level 3 qualification
Entry is subject to a successful interview, where you will be asked to bring along a portfolio of your existing work. Applicants from A-Level courses displaying high levels of creativity will also be considered. We welcome applications from mature students who will considered individually on experience rather than qualifications.
Course content
You will study core and specialist units with the emphasis on building a creative portfolio which can be used:
- To develop workshop and design skills
- As a vehicle for gaining work with a range of prospective employers
- As a possible basis for gaining entrance to a final year on a degree programme.
You will be encouraged to develop a highly individual ideas-based portfolio, pursuing your personal specialist interests from theory to materials and techniques. Students engage regularly with 'live projects' and talks, and have an impressive track record of engaging with commissions and working with established designers and craftspeople.
You will study the following core compulsory units:
- Visual communication in art and design
- Ideas generation and development in art and design
- Contextual and cultural referencing in art and design
- Professional practice in art and design.
In addition you will study from a range of specialist units, including:
- Design principles
- Product design
- Design for performing arts
- Specialist 3D technology and processes
- Interior design
- Properties of 3D material
- Product design
- Critical study in art and design
- Professional studies in art and design
- Lighting
- Digital image creation & development.
Some of these units are likely to be combined to form a Final Major Project with unit five, Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation. As the course progresses you will be expected to develop more independence and autonomy, and negotiate a personal learning plan to support your practice.
Assessment methods
During the course you will work with a range of specialist lecturers (including practising artists and designers) in well-equipped studios and workshops. Project briefs will be set for each assignment, and you are encouraged to develop a personal response to each task. All activities are supported through one-to-one tutorials and group discussions to inform personal progress and aid assessment. Assessment will be continuous throughout the course, with assignments being graded at the end of each task.
Qualifications
Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Art and Design (3D Design)
Further study and career options
On successful completion of the HNC, you can progress on to our own 3D Design BTEC HND, or choose to enter employment in a field such as jewellery design or model making.
Additional information
Additional costs
- You will need a minimum of £100 per year for materials, dependent on project requirements.
- Resource fee of £150 to cover: Jesmonite, sheet acrylic, timber, sheet/tube/bar brass.
- Train fares for (optional) visits to the Design Museum and Material Lab in London.
Material Lab are run and funded by the UK’s leading tile manufacturer Johnson Tiles. They responded to what the art and design community desired: a place where inspiration and creativity go hand in hand, where you can immerse yourself in surface coverings of every kind no matter what it’s made from. Plastic, leather, vinyl, ceramic, paper, textile, glass… if it’s on the wall or the floor they've got it covered.
To enrol on this course you must apply through the University & Colleges Admission Service (UCAS) using the institution code BEDF B23 and the course code 192W. Visit www.ucas.com or call us on 01234 291000 for more information.