Design: Product, Space and the Creative Economy

Design: Product, Space and the Creative Economy at Kingston University offers an innovative and comprehensive undergraduate program that prepares students to excel in the dynamic fields of product design, spatial design, and the broader creative economy. This course is ideal for individuals passionate about creating impactful, sustainable, and user-centered design solutions across various industries, including consumer products, interior spaces, retail environments, and cultural spaces. Throughout the program, students develop a strong foundation in design principles, technical skills, and critical thinking, enabling them to address real-world challenges through innovative design strategies. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, encouraging students to experiment with different materials, technologies, and digital tools, while fostering a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to design projects. Students have the opportunity to work closely with industry professionals and receive practical experience through live briefs, internships, and collaborative projects, ensuring they graduate with a portfolio that demonstrates their versatility and readiness for the professional world. The program also explores the broader creative economy, examining how design impacts social, cultural, and economic factors, and preparing students to contribute meaningfully to this vibrant sector. Facilities include state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and digital laboratories, offering a stimulating environment for creativity and innovation. Kingston University’s strong links with industry partners and alumni network provide students with valuable networking opportunities and insights into current industry practices. Upon completing this program, graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and creative confidence to pursue careers as product designers, spatial designers, innovation consultants, or entrepreneurs within the creative economy. The program encourages a reflective and sustainable approach to design, advocating for responsible practices that consider environmental and societal impacts. Overall, Design: Product, Space and the Creative Economy prepares students to become forward-thinking designers who can shape the future of environments, products, and the cultural landscape.

The Design: Product, Space and the Creative Economy program at Kingston University offers a dynamic and innovative approach to developing designers capable of shaping the future of the built environment and consumer products. This interdisciplinary course is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of design principles, material innovation, sustainable practices, and the economic factors influencing creative industries. Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on projects that challenge them to think critically about form, function, and user experience, fostering their ability to create impactful solutions in a rapidly evolving global market.

The curriculum integrates core concepts of product and spatial design, emphasizing the importance of sustainable design practices, technological integration, and cultural context. Students explore various aspects of the creative economy, learning how design contributes to economic development, entrepreneurship, and societal well-being. The course encourages collaboration with industry partners, providing opportunities for real-world projects that enhance employability and professional growth.

Students will develop skills in visual communication, prototyping, digital modeling, and project management, preparing them for careers in design consultancy, retail, exhibition design, and creative entrepreneurship. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, research, and innovation, enabling graduates to adapt creatively to emerging trends and challenges within the design sector. With access to Kingston University’s state-of-the-art facilities, including workshops, fabrication labs, and digital studios, students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.

Throughout their studies, students participate in exhibitions, competitions, and industry events, offering valuable exposure and networking opportunities. The program aims to nurture forward-thinking designers who are not only proficient in their technical skills but also sensitive to societal needs and environmental responsibilities. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped to contribute to diverse sectors within the creative economy, whether as independent entrepreneurs, in-house designers, or consultants, making a positive impact through innovative and sustainable design solutions.

Programme requirements for the BA (Hons) Design: Product, Space and the Creative Economy at Kingston University include a combination of academic prerequisites and portfolio standards designed to assess applicants' creative potential and motivation. Prospective students are typically expected to hold a minimum of two A-levels or equivalent qualifications, with preferred subjects related to art, design, or other creative studies. Applicants without formal qualifications but with relevant professional experience or a compelling portfolio demonstrating design skills and creative aptitude may also be considered through the accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL). A strong portfolio is essential, showcasing original design ideas, technical skills, and conceptual thinking across product and spatial design disciplines. The portfolio should also demonstrate an understanding of the creative economy and how design can influence and operate within commercial contexts. Personal statements or interviews may be conducted to evaluate motivation, commitment, and awareness of contemporary design issues, including sustainability, innovation, and user-centered design. International applicants are required to meet English language requirements, typically an IELTS score of 6.0 or higher, with no component below 5.5, unless they possess other recognized English language qualifications. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate an interest in the interdisciplinary aspects of design, including how product and spatial design intersect with cultural and economic environments. The programme encourages applicants to display skills in research, problem-solving, and critical thinking, along with the capacity to work independently and collaboratively. Moreover, a basic understanding of digital tools and software relevant to contemporary design practices is advantageous. Overall, the entry criteria aim to select motivated individuals with a passion for creative exploration and a desire to engage with the dynamic fields of product and spatial design within the context of the creative economy.

The Design: Product, Space and the Creative Economy program at Kingston University offers diverse financing options to support students throughout their studies. Domestic students may be eligible for government loans and grants, including the Student Finance England (SFE) funding, which covers tuition fees and provides maintenance bursaries. International students are typically required to pay tuition fees upfront or may apply for external scholarships, bursaries, or sponsorships if available. Kingston University provides a range of scholarships for both UK and international students, based on academic performance or financial need. Additionally, students can explore external funding opportunities such as industry sponsorships or private loans from financial institutions. The university's financial aid team offers guidance on available funding sources, application procedures, and deadlines to ensure students secure necessary financial support. Part-time work opportunities may also be accessible through the university’s career services to help students manage living costs. It is important for prospective students to review specific eligibility criteria and application procedures for each funding option directly on the Kingston University official website or through their admissions office. The university continuously updates its financial support programs to accommodate changing student needs and funding landscapes. Therefore, students are encouraged to contact the university’s financial aid advisors early in their application process to explore all available options. Overall, Kingston University aims to make education accessible by providing comprehensive financial support schemes, helping students focus on their academic and creative development in the fields of design, innovation, and the creative economy.

Design: Product, Space and the Creative Economy at Kingston University offers an innovative interdisciplinary approach to understanding and shaping the physical and conceptual environments we inhabit. This program prepares students to engage critically with the evolving roles of design within the contemporary economy, focusing on product development, spatial design, and their integration into the creative industries. Students will explore the principles of sustainable and user-centered design, gaining hands-on experience through practical projects, workshops, and collaborative assignments. The curriculum emphasizes the development of creative problem-solving skills, technical proficiency, and strategic thinking, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to a wide range of sectors including retail, hospitality, public spaces, and technological innovation. The program also highlights entrepreneurial skills, encouraging students to identify opportunities within the creative economy and to develop their own design solutions that are innovative and commercially viable. Throughout their studies, students will engage with current industry practices and trends, including digital fabrication, virtual environments, and emerging design technologies. Kingston University’s strong links with industry partners provide students with opportunities for placements, live briefs, and industry mentoring, ensuring they are well-prepared for professional careers. The program fosters a vibrant learning environment through diverse collaborative projects, exhibitions, and research activities, promoting critical inquiry and interdisciplinary understanding. Graduates of this program can pursue careers as product designers, spatial designers, creative economy consultants, innovation managers, or start their own design ventures, contributing creatively and strategically across various sectors. The course also encourages continuous professional development and lifelong learning, preparing students to adapt to the dynamic demands of the design and creative industries in a global context.