How to become a product designer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree to get into this career. Useful subjects include:
- design
- product design
- industrial product design
- engineering
You could also do a course covering a particular industry, which has design options. Examples include automotive engineering and furniture design.
Getting work experience during your studies can improve your job prospects.
Your university careers service can help you to find suitable placements, internships and year in industry opportunities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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Apprenticeship
You could do an engineering product design and development degree apprenticeship.
This typically takes 60 months to complete as a mix of workplace learning and academic study at an approved university.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
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Career tips
Entering design competitions and exhibitions can be a good way of getting yourself noticed by employers.
You'll need to show employers that you have creative skills, technical knowledge and the ability to work to a design brief. This will usually involve presenting a portfolio of your design work to them.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Chartered Society of Designers for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can get more information on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.