Product Design

Product Design at the University of South Australia is a dynamic and innovative program that prepares students to become creative and skilled designers capable of developing user-centered products for a diverse range of industries. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, combining creativity, technical skills, and understanding of consumer needs to deliver innovative solutions that are sustainable, functional, and aesthetically appealing. Students will engage with the entire design process, from research and concept development to prototyping and manufacturing, gaining hands-on experience with current industry tools and software. The curriculum explores areas such as human factors, ergonomics, materials, manufacturing processes, and sustainable design practices, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the global market. Throughout the program, students collaborate on real-world projects, often working with industry partners, to develop their problem-solving abilities and professional portfolio. The program also fosters entrepreneurship and innovation, encouraging students to think critically about the social and environmental impacts of their designs. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and labs, along with expert academic staff, students are supported in their creative pursuits and technical development. Graduates of the Product Design program are prepared for careers in various sectors including consumer products, industrial design, furniture design, and digital interfaces, among others. The program's focus on both practical skills and theoretical knowledge ensures students are ready to contribute meaningfully to the design industry or to pursue further research and study in design-related fields. By completing this qualification, students will gain the confidence and expertise needed to lead design projects, innovate solutions, and influence the future of product development both locally and globally.

Graduates of a Bachelor of Design (Product Design) degree will have a broad and coherent body of knowledge of the aesthetics, function, usability and social significance of manufactured objects to play a key role in determining how products are made, the materials used and environmental sustainability. Graduates will possess a solid understanding of the practical issues that influence product design– such as ergonomics, manufacturing technologies, trend forecasting, sustainability – and how this knowledge informs the design of products that make people's lives safer, happier and more efficient. 

The students will complete 108 units of study comprising 9 units of design, culture and society, 54 units of studio and practice, 36 units of major in product design, and 9 units of electives.

To be eligible for selection, applicants are required to:

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and

• obtain a competitive ATAR, and
• meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C-    

Alternatively, applicants can fulfil one of the following requirements with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements, and other academic requirements for the program:

• Complete secondary education qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
• Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points, or
• Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
• Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above, or
• Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV level or above, or
• Qualify for Special Entry, or
• Complete a University Foundation Studies program

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

English language test

• IELTS total: - 6.0
• IELTS reading: - 6.0
• IELTS writing: - 6.0

Each year, more than 2,500 students at the University of South Australia benefit from scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. We welcome high achieving students from developing countries who are supported by the Australian government program, Australia Awards. We also host around 500 students who are sponsored by their home government, university or employer. 

The Bachelor of Design (Product Design) at the University of South Australia is a comprehensive undergraduate program that prepares students to become innovative and skilled product designers. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning, combining creative design processes with practical technical skills to develop products that are functional, sustainable, and user-centered. Throughout the course, students engage in a variety of projects that challenge their problem-solving abilities, encouraging them to think creatively and work collaboratively. The curriculum covers core areas such as design fundamentals, materials and manufacturing processes, ergonomics, and user experience design. Students also explore digital design tools, prototyping techniques, and sustainable design principles to ensure their work meets contemporary industry standards and environmental considerations.

The program is designed to foster critical thinking and innovation, equipping graduates with the ability to develop new products for diverse markets including consumer goods, furniture, and industrial design. Industry collaborations and internships are integral components of the program, providing students with real-world experience and networking opportunities. The University of South Australia offers state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated workshops, design laboratories, and access to advanced software, ensuring students have the necessary resources to realize their ideas from concept to prototype. Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared for careers in product design, development, and management, or for further postgraduate studies in design or related fields. The program's emphasis on sustainability and user-centered design aligns with current industry trends, making graduates highly competitive in the global job market.