About the course
Product Design relates to the design of everyday objects with a particular accent given to their relevance, usefulness and functionality. Product Design is simply “everything” surrounding us and because of that the range of necessary competences is very wide, ranging from understanding of materials and production techniques, up to economical issues, psychological factors and beyond. Approaches are centred around consumer goods, where issues surrounding everyday manufactured products are developed and explored.
BA (Hons) Product and Industrial Design programme is validated by University of Hertfordshire.
The programme has been running since 2006 and ever since the main scope of the course has been related to provide a relevant international experience in thinking globally and acting locally (in Russia), with a correct balance of technical abilities and design thinking skills. The course has constantly managed to evolve by proposing new contents in a way to stay up with the challenges of the time (and the future), cross matching, sometimes, with other disciplines like futurology or interface design. It investigates the cultural, technical and commercial factors which influence the development of innovative new products, and it introduces the creative and professional strategies which underpin design. The course includes branding and methods of identifying consumer needs and aspirations as an approach to creating the right product.
Studies focus on provision of opportunities for cooperation with design and business communities both in Russia and abroad. Starting in the second year, students are involved in projects, which are to be implemented for real customers. The school cooperates with well known companies, including Asus, SEAT, Adobe, Sony, Hewlett-Packard, Light Technologies, SCA Tissue Europe, Rolsen Electronics, Daimler Chrysler and this list lengthens each year.
BA (Hons) Product and Industrial Design programme is validated by University of Hertfordshire.
The programme has been running since 2006 and ever since the main scope of the course has been related to provide a relevant international experience in thinking globally and acting locally (in Russia), with a correct balance of technical abilities and design thinking skills. The course has constantly managed to evolve by proposing new contents in a way to stay up with the challenges of the time (and the future), cross matching, sometimes, with other disciplines like futurology or interface design. It investigates the cultural, technical and commercial factors which influence the development of innovative new products, and it introduces the creative and professional strategies which underpin design. The course includes branding and methods of identifying consumer needs and aspirations as an approach to creating the right product.
Studies focus on provision of opportunities for cooperation with design and business communities both in Russia and abroad. Starting in the second year, students are involved in projects, which are to be implemented for real customers. The school cooperates with well known companies, including Asus, SEAT, Adobe, Sony, Hewlett-Packard, Light Technologies, SCA Tissue Europe, Rolsen Electronics, Daimler Chrysler and this list lengthens each year.
What makes the programme unique
Programme Structure
Year 1: Modules
The student experience is focused on developing the basic design ‘toolbox’ skills required by product design students. Students will become familiar with design practices and processes including visual language, design and communication, materials, techniques, vision, function, construction, production, decision-making and challenges. Students will develop drawing, computer, workshop and presentation skills through focused project activity. A module in critical and cultural studies will enable the students to develop study skills and gain a broader knowledge of relevant cultural and historical matters.
Core modules:
Core modules:
- Introduction to Core Design Skills
- Introduction to Design Principles
- Professional Design Studio
- Design Theory (L4)
Year 2: Modules
Practical work in workshops and implementation of companies’ projects allow students to improve understanding of the methods which are used by professionals as well as to expand their knowledge and improve professional skills. The implementation of projects helps to develop their own ideas and identify their advantages, while practical training incorporates current product design practices and the opportunity to interact with the professional community.
Core modules:
Core modules:
- Core Design Skills (2)
- Design Principles (PID)
- Professional Design Studio (2)
- Design Theory (L5)
Year 3: Modules
During their final year leading to the degree of Bachelor of Arts students can study either in Moscow or in the UK depending on their choice.
This year is designed to prepare the student for the world of work. It focuses on developing and consolidating key skills and provides the student with opportunities to work on external projects. During their third year, students improve their communication and presentation skills, actively participating in various competitions; they write degree essay along with project-related activities. The degree project combines accumulated experience, so graduates can demonstrate their achieved level.
Core modules:
This year is designed to prepare the student for the world of work. It focuses on developing and consolidating key skills and provides the student with opportunities to work on external projects. During their third year, students improve their communication and presentation skills, actively participating in various competitions; they write degree essay along with project-related activities. The degree project combines accumulated experience, so graduates can demonstrate their achieved level.
Core modules:
- Major Degree Project (PID)
- Professional Design Studio (3)
- The Degree Essay (L6)
Tutors
Student works
How to apply
01
Entry exams
Applicants who apply for Year 1 of British higher education courses, need to sit the following:
- English exam
- Portfolio assessment
- Entry interview
During the admission exams, the admissions staff will arrange a convenient date and time for demonstration of portfolio and interview, after that, the matriculant will be allowed to pass the English test.
English test is not required for students from English-speaking countries or if an IELTS or equivalent certificate is produced. For international students we can organise skype entry interviews. In such cases the portfolio can be sent via email.
- English exam
- Portfolio assessment
- Entry interview
During the admission exams, the admissions staff will arrange a convenient date and time for demonstration of portfolio and interview, after that, the matriculant will be allowed to pass the English test.
English test is not required for students from English-speaking countries or if an IELTS or equivalent certificate is produced. For international students we can organise skype entry interviews. In such cases the portfolio can be sent via email.
02
Required level of English
IELTS band 6.0 (or equivalent certificate). Along with the IELTS results, the following certificates are also accepted:
- CAE (Certificate in Advanced English) grade C or above;
- FCE (First Certificate in English) grade A.
If a prospective student does not have an IELTS certificate of the required level but successfully passed BHSAD English test as part of BHSAD entrance exams, he/she needs to obtain an IELTS certificate before the start of the first semester on Year 1.
- CAE (Certificate in Advanced English) grade C or above;
- FCE (First Certificate in English) grade A.
If a prospective student does not have an IELTS certificate of the required level but successfully passed BHSAD English test as part of BHSAD entrance exams, he/she needs to obtain an IELTS certificate before the start of the first semester on Year 1.
03
Required portfolio
The range of work in your portfolio should cover a broad spectrum of media, materials and approaches. Projects may be submitted in different disciplines including but not limited to graphics, drawing, painting, textile, photography, decorative art, design, web-design, animation.
First of all, the admission committee would like to see how you can generate and develop your ideas; that is why, besides finished projects, the portfolio should also include notebooks with sketches, sketchbooks, written works (articles, essays, if any). Please try to present examples of the best and most recent projects which reflect your creative abilities.
Your portfolio needs to be printed (А3 format or larger). Animation and CG works should be presented on CDs or memory sticks. It advisable to show photographs of large works which otherwise would be difficult to transport.
First of all, the admission committee would like to see how you can generate and develop your ideas; that is why, besides finished projects, the portfolio should also include notebooks with sketches, sketchbooks, written works (articles, essays, if any). Please try to present examples of the best and most recent projects which reflect your creative abilities.
Your portfolio needs to be printed (А3 format or larger). Animation and CG works should be presented on CDs or memory sticks. It advisable to show photographs of large works which otherwise would be difficult to transport.
04
Interview procedure
Prospective students will be asked questions regarding their education and professional background in order to make a final decision about admission on to the course. Please be ready to tell the interview panel about yourself, your design experience and projects in your portfolio.
You may be asked about the history of creation of a particular work and the context of its creation. The panel may ask you about well-known designers to learn about the influence of creative activities of other designers and artists on you, the reason why you follow them and the main incentive for your development in terms of your occupation.
You may be asked about the history of creation of a particular work and the context of its creation. The panel may ask you about well-known designers to learn about the influence of creative activities of other designers and artists on you, the reason why you follow them and the main incentive for your development in terms of your occupation.
Admission requirements
Exam schedule will be announced in spring 2020.
How to enrol
To enrol on the course, applicants have to present a portfolio of their work and evidence of their English language competence. A grade 6.0 or higher on the IELTS scale is acceptable and the CAE and FCE qualifications are considered. If the applicant cannot produce a certificate, their English is tested together with prospective students who are applying for the Foundation Art & Design Course. However, the applicant must provide the IELTS certificate later on, by particular deadline.
Enrollment is based on the results of a portfolio assessment and an interview with one of the tutors. The applicant's knowledge and skills reflected in their work should be comparable to the knowledge and skills students acquire at Foundation level. Interviews and portfolio assessments are usually scheduled in the 3 days followed by the language test.
Transfer to Year 2 will be possible only if a student attended a higher education institution which uses a credit-based system. For these purposes, the number of previously received credits is compared with the number of credits which is necessary for transfer to the relevant stage of a British undergraduate course.
Enrollment is based on the results of a portfolio assessment and an interview with one of the tutors. The applicant's knowledge and skills reflected in their work should be comparable to the knowledge and skills students acquire at Foundation level. Interviews and portfolio assessments are usually scheduled in the 3 days followed by the language test.
Transfer to Year 2 will be possible only if a student attended a higher education institution which uses a credit-based system. For these purposes, the number of previously received credits is compared with the number of credits which is necessary for transfer to the relevant stage of a British undergraduate course.
Required documents
- Online application form
- Copy of previous education certificates and academic qualifications. The following documents can be submitted: high school diploma, college degree diploma, higher education or BA diploma
- 2 photos 3х4 cm
- Copy of your passport
- Personal statement
- Copy of previous education certificates and academic qualifications. The following documents can be submitted: high school diploma, college degree diploma, higher education or BA diploma
- 2 photos 3х4 cm
- Copy of your passport
- Personal statement
Tuition fees
Full-time: GBP 6,650 / year*
Part-time: GBP 4,200 / year*
Students as a rule pay their tuition fees once a semester, that is, twice a year, but at their request can choose to pay on a monthly basis.
You will be expected to meet additional costs which may arise as a result of materials, art supplies and consumables you may need for your projects, as well as printing and copying services and other types of services and consumables. Their list and the amount of costs depends upon the requirements of your course and the nature of your projects.
Additionally during your time at BHSAD you may be recommended to visit museums, art galleries and other venues as part of your learning and there may be a cost for such visits which you should also budget for.
Below is the list of materials and supplies which BHSAD students use most frequently and which are likely to be among those you may need:
A3 or A4 hardback sketchbook, A2 or A3 portfolio case with ringbound plastic sleeves, HB pencils and rubber, UHU glue, Pritt stick, PVA glue, small lined notepads, spray mount, masking tape, sellotape, double sided tape, invisible scotch tape, scalpel with replaceable blades, basic set of acrylic paints, coloured pencils, basic set of drawing pencils, highlighter, assorted brushes, writing pen, fine line drawing pens, small plastic ruler etc.
Please note that this list is indicative and given for your reference only. Full list will depend upon your project and the range of materials and techniques which you may wish to adopt.
* This proposal does not constitute an offer, the prices are subject to change. Cost of services and conditions of their provision will be specified in the contract.
Part-time: GBP 4,200 / year*
Students as a rule pay their tuition fees once a semester, that is, twice a year, but at their request can choose to pay on a monthly basis.
You will be expected to meet additional costs which may arise as a result of materials, art supplies and consumables you may need for your projects, as well as printing and copying services and other types of services and consumables. Their list and the amount of costs depends upon the requirements of your course and the nature of your projects.
Additionally during your time at BHSAD you may be recommended to visit museums, art galleries and other venues as part of your learning and there may be a cost for such visits which you should also budget for.
Below is the list of materials and supplies which BHSAD students use most frequently and which are likely to be among those you may need:
A3 or A4 hardback sketchbook, A2 or A3 portfolio case with ringbound plastic sleeves, HB pencils and rubber, UHU glue, Pritt stick, PVA glue, small lined notepads, spray mount, masking tape, sellotape, double sided tape, invisible scotch tape, scalpel with replaceable blades, basic set of acrylic paints, coloured pencils, basic set of drawing pencils, highlighter, assorted brushes, writing pen, fine line drawing pens, small plastic ruler etc.
Please note that this list is indicative and given for your reference only. Full list will depend upon your project and the range of materials and techniques which you may wish to adopt.
* This proposal does not constitute an offer, the prices are subject to change. Cost of services and conditions of their provision will be specified in the contract.
Success stories
Natalya Romanova
BA (Hons) Product Design programme graduate
BA (Hons) Product and Industrial Design
FAQ
How can I apply?
Applicants need to provide the following documents:
- online application form
- copy or the original of previous education certificates and academic qualifications.
- 2 photos 3×4
- copy of your passport
After the necessary documents are provided you need to sign the contracts. For applicants under 18 presence of one of the parents is required. More details about the application process can be found in the “How to apply” section of the website.
- online application form
- copy or the original of previous education certificates and academic qualifications.
- 2 photos 3×4
- copy of your passport
After the necessary documents are provided you need to sign the contracts. For applicants under 18 presence of one of the parents is required. More details about the application process can be found in the “How to apply” section of the website.
What is the language of delivery?
The education at BHSAD is provided by an international team of lecturers but the working language is always English for our British programmes.