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University of South Australia

  • 17% international / 83% domestic

Bachelor of Design (Product Design)

  • Bachelor

This degree enables you to practice the technical skills needed for a successful career in the innovative industrial design industry. Our world-class design studios and workshops boast digital fabrication equipment such as:

Key details

Degree Type
Bachelor
Duration
3 years full-time
Course Code
DBPR, 071953G
Study Mode
In person
Intake Months
Feb, Jun
International Fees
$31,900 per year / $95,700 total
ATAR
70

About this course

This degree enables you to practice the technical skills needed for a successful career in the innovative industrial design industry. Our world-class design studios and workshops boast digital fabrication equipment such as:

  • laser cutters
  • CNC routers
  • 3D printers
  • industry-standard motion-capture and virtual reality systems

A large portion of your practical learning will take place in these areas, and Design Studio courses make up a large part of the degree's curriculum. In these courses you will design objects and products such as domestic appliances, musical instruments and furniture. In addition to on-campus practical experience you will also benefit from industry placements and our strong industry links. There may also be the opportunity to participate in international and national study tours, competitions and exhibitions.

Study locations

City West

What you will learn

There is a lot of ground to cover in this degree, starting with a fundamental understanding of the elements and principles of design. Much of this study takes place in the purpose-built design studios located on-campus. You will study basic skills and concepts relating to areas such as design history, theory and thinking; human centred design; and creativity. During your second year you will broaden your knowledge, covering topics such as:

  • ergonomics
  • computer aided design and manufacturing
  • sustainable design concepts and methods
  • materials and processes
  • manufacturing and engineering principles

In your third year there will be a focus on design for usability, high volume manufacturing and sustainability, and you will be able to select a range of electives to tailor your study to your individual interests.

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

Career pathways

Job prospects in this field are looking good, with strong growth in employment expected nationally through to November 20201. You can increase you employment prospects when you continue your studies with a Master of Design. Careers to consider:

  • computer drafter: convert designs into technical drawings using specialised software
  • furniture designer: develop design concepts, experiment with different materials, liaise with clients and build sample models for either mass produced furniture prototypes or one-off exclusive pieces
  • technical illustrator: design and create visual representations for use in technical publications and manuals

1Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015