What is CAD Product Design? CAD is the use of a wide range of computer-based tools that assist engineers, architects and other design professionals in their design activities. It is the main geometry authoring tool within the Product Lifecycle Management process and involves both software and sometimes special-purpose hardware. Current packages range from 2D vector based drafting systems to 3D parametric surface and solid design modellers.
BSc, BEng or BA? Bachelor of Science, Engineering or Art, the type of degree that is available from different Universities varies and will normally help you decide on a particular route. Science or Engineering courses will have a larger core of study in specific working properties and material testing whereas the Bachelor of Art degrees will lean more towards the aesthetic qualities and manufacturing.
What topics will I cover on a typical course? You should expect to study a very similar course to Product design but with a much closer link to Computer Aided Design packages. Most Universities will also have CAM equipment so that you can output your designs and practice rapid prototyping techniques.
Year 1
Most Product Design courses run as a series of small projects that will enable you to learn and practice relevant skills. Lectures usually run alongside these small projects and will normally cover subjects such as, materials and materials testing, health and safety, sustainability, graphic and presentation techniques, modelling (2D and 3D), rapid prototyping techniques, British Standards and Kite Marking and CAD packages.
Year 2
Industrial visits are usual at this stage and 'Live Projects' with specific companies often take place. This gives students a chance to learn normal industrial practice and often the final designs/products are modelled for a final presentation to clients. Design Electives are also common and are used to provide a wider understanding and history of design. Examples include Non European Art and Architecture, Film Production, Psychology of design, Art History, Business Studies and Material Development and Testing.
Year 3
Your final year will focus around a Major Project which is normally chosen under guidance of your course tutors. A full size working prototype is expected that will form the basis of a degree show. These shows are very important as local businesses and company Directors are invited and it is common place to receive job offers or commissions.
What job opportunities are there? As Product Design is such a wide ranging topic you could be working for large multi national companies that produce cutting edge electronic products. You could also specialise and use your CAD ability to visualise other designers products and produce digital images and 3D models. It is also common that graduates can establish their own companies and work on a free lance basis for other clients.
