16-18 Courses, 16-18: A Levels

Art and Design: Product Design (A Level)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

GCSE Average Points Score: 4.3, Grade 4 English Language GCSE, Grade 4 Maths GCSE, GCSE Art & Design 4 or Portfolio

Course information

You will use a variety of materials to develop creative solutions to design problems. Research skills, design model-making, drawing and presentation techniques are vital elements of the coursework. You will study a personal investigation unit and an externally set (exam) unit in the second year. You will also complete a written study in the upper sixth.

The Product Design two-year A Level suits people with an interest in designing and making 3D solutions that meet a need or solve a problem. You should have a desire to create and make products, furniture and lighting in 3D and an interest in using 2D and 3D materials in a practical way. In the lower sixth you will cover product design drawing realisation, ideas development through 3D model making, and Computer Aided Design construction. A range of different projects are covered and all conclude with both a 3D and CAD model solution.

You can expect to:

  • Create and make prototype ideas that solve functional problems in a workshop environment
  • Research and explore the work of contemporary product, furniture and lighting designers
  • Visit design galleries and museum spaces
  • Create accurate CAD plans and 3D rendered models

The upper sixth year includes a personal project for which students write their own brief and this forms a key element in support of their application to university to study Product, Furniture or Lighting Design degrees. Students are also required to produce a 2,500-word written study that connects in with their chosen coursework project.

This A Level is studied alongside two or three other A Levels or Level 3 BTEC equivalents. Other Creative Arts faculty subjects combine well (a maximum of no more than two creative courses is advised plus one other non-related A Level).

To explore the course specification further, please use the following link:

Edexcel AS and A level Art and Design 2015 | Pearson qualifications

  • How you are assessed

    60% Coursework, 40% Practical Exam

Select your campus option to apply

What Can This Course Lead To

Progress to university, further study, a higher level apprenticeship or employment.

You can progress onto a Foundation Diploma course or a degree in a range of design based subjects, and careers in 3D design, including, product, furniture or lighting design.

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Financial Support

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