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.
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
If you're working in the furniture industry, you may be able to start on a furniture product developer advanced apprenticeship.
You could also do a product design and development degree apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 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.