Three Dimensional Design - Ceramics and Glass, Jewellery, Product Design

Year 1

In Year 1 you will explore the foundations of Three Dimensional Design processes through practical, creative, critical thinking and making. You are introduced to new ideas, new concepts and new ways of working and thinking through the projects briefs and technical inputs.

Year 2

New technologies and computer aided design and visualisation are core throughout Year 2. You will extend your knowledge in Designing and Making through thematic and technically driven projects which are delivered in studio and workshop environments. You will develop an understanding on more advanced creative thinking methods and systems, materials and making processes.

Year 3

Self-directed study and studio project work helps to develop your specialist interests in preparation for Year 4. You will take part in collaboration design projects with external clients and work in teams from across the design departments. There will be opportunities to participate in a range of external projects, exchanges and placement activities to develop your professional abilities.

Year 4

Working independently, with guidance and support from staff, you will develop your self-directed proposal for work related to your areas of specialist interest. Depending on your specialist route, you will take part in a number of graduate events including the Degree Show and New Designers in London.

Learning Methods

You have the opportunity to explore your chosen specialism through research, development and innovation in materials and processes. You will be provided with dedicated studio space to develop your own thoughts and ideas, an integral part to your learning journey. Industry-linked projects, European exchanges, design internships, live competitions and public facing external events are an integral part of our course and provide you with valuable professional and practical experience.

In your final year, you will develop a professional portfolio of work and exhibit in the Degree Show, and New Designers Exhibition in London.

Activity Summary

• Lectures - 16 students per group, 1 hour per week
• Seminars -16 students per group,1 hour per week
• Tutorial -1 student per group, 1/2 hour per week
• Project Supervision - 16students per group,1hour per week
• Practical class or workshop - 16students per group,1hour per week
• Supervised time in studio / workshop - 16students per group,10 hour per week
• External Visits - 16students per group,2days in term1

How long is a BA (Hons) Three Dimensional Design course?

The duration of a Three Dimensional Design degree is 4 years. This includes lectures, seminars, time in the studio and other activities.

Independent Study

Throughout the course particular emphasis is placed on your development of independent learning through self-directed design project/s. By Year 4 you undertake independent study fully, reflecting on your previous 3 years’ experience of building expertise and specialist knowledge within your chosen pathway towards professional practice level.

Staff Delivering on This Course

Teaching staff have expert knowledge in all areas of the course delivery including Product Design, Contemporary Jewellery Design, Lighting and Furniture Design along with Ceramics and Glass. You will be supported by expert technicians across all materials and processes including wood, metal, resin and plastic. All staff members have experience of working within the industry and some have worked extensively as consultants and designers.

Industry experts contribute to the course as Professional Associates and through the Guest@Grays lecture programme, which invites national and international artists and designers to speak about their work.

Assessment

Typically students are assessed eachyear:

Year 1

• 1 written assignment, including essay
• 3portfolios

Year 2

• 2written assignments, including essay
• 3 portfolios

Year 3

• 2written assignments, including essay
• 3 portfolios

Year 4

• 1 dissertation
• 1 portfolio

Feedback

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.

Placements

You will have the opportunity to undertake an optional 10-week work placement in Year 3, Term2. This is a fantastic opportunity to put into practice some of the design techniques and skills you have developed and to broaden your understanding and contextual awareness of the subject. Past placements have included:

• Iona Crawford Atelier Scotland (Glasgow based interiors and soft furnishings Designers)
• Dezion Studio - Australia (Sydney based Product and Craft Designers)
• Vakvrouwen Netherlands (Amsterdam based Furniture Designers)

You are responsible for finding your placement with support from the placement office and academic staff.

Study Abroad

In Year 3, Term2, there is the opportunity to undertake a period of international study exchange with our partner colleges across Europe, Canada and the US. The course has very well established partnerships with academic institutions in Milan, Hanover, Dusseldorf, Hameenlinna, Turku and Hasselt.

Job Prospects

This course is built to provide you with transferable design and business skills to operate confidently in a wide range of design careers within the creative sector. These include working with product and industrial design consultancies, within the manufacturing and retail sectors and setting up as an independent freelance designer.

Recent graduates can also apply to our Graduate in Residence (GiR) scheme which supports the next stage of their professional journey, whether this involves setting up a business, applying for postgraduate study or building a portfolio.

Is Three Dimensional Design a good career choice?

Previous BA Three Dimensional Design graduates of Robert Gordon University have gone on to pursue the following careers:

• Designers within business settings
• Self-employed product designers
• Designer-makers
• Ceramicists
• Jewellery designers

Many of our graduateshave gone on to extend their academic experience through further study at the Royal College of Art and at other postgraduate institutions.

There is also the option of extending your academic experience through postgraduate study at Gray’s School of Art.