Program Code
3385
Duration
4 Years
Design & Technology
Part-time Option
Possible in the latter half of the program
ATAR Cut-off 2009
80.05
Behind every manufactured product on the world’s shelves lie the creativity, innovation and technical know-how of an industrial designer. Industrial designers make products work for people. They understand why a product “feels good”, in every way. Like the form and functions of a mobile phone which matches perfectly to the dexterity of a human hand, or the shape and colour of its outer shell which connects sympathetically to the human eye.
The role of an industrial designer is to create attractive, functional products which work in the real world and fulfill a genuine market demand. That means constantly refining functionality to enhance a consumer’s experience. For example, the way that “pop-tops” for drink bottles became a convenient, spill-proof alternative to cups or straws. It also means understanding the social and environmental context in which products are manufactured and how different materials compare for recycling or sustainability. Industrial designers produce design solutions which work for every link in the manufacturing chain.
At the same time, industrial designers understand how great design forges an emotional connection between products and people. An elegantly simple form which meets the practical demands of production must also be ergonomically, aesthetically and emotionally ideal for consumers. The iconic iPod is a good example of inspired industrial design. The iPods’ delicate structure, colours, curved edges, shiny metallic back, and small, soft touch controls are deliberately designed to evoke a child-like fragility; encouraging consumers to treat it with affection and care. So much so that iPods are special enough to be dressed up in “skins” and “socks”.
Industrial designers work with engineers, accountants and marketers to turn good ideas into successful products. They can also play an important role beyond the production line, in branding, corporate identity, graphics, packaging and retail support. The marriage of artistic skills, technical expertise, social and environmental sensitivity and a keen insight into markets and consumers, creates a design professional with a wide range of rewarding career options to look forward to.
The Degree
The Bachelor of Industrial Design (BIndDes) is a four-year, full time course which equips graduates for the real world challenge of creating user-friendly designs for commercial production. The BIndDes at UNSW Built Environment values people and its multi-disciplinary approach recognises good product design has human needs and emotions at its core.
Based around a “Design Studio” model, students enjoy the benefits of tackling design projects in a hands-on, studio environment. Students learn core design skills such as sketching and technical drawing, rendering, computer model making, concept generation and presentation as well as safe workshop practices. When combined with coursework in design history, ergonomics, consumer behaviour, marketing and communication - plus the technical aspects of materials, manufacturing and environmental sustainability - Built Environment students develop the broad knowledge and holistic perspective they need to achieve effective design solutions. These skills come together in the Design Studio, where students apply theory, problem solving, creativity and technical skills to meet design challenges.
Students can elect to tailor their degree to their special area of interest by pursuing a wide range of electives within Built Environment and other UNSW Faculties - from exhibition and furniture design to ceramics and jewelry. Students may also choose to graduate with a major design project which can attract industry sponsorship, often leading to a commercial patent and employment within the supporting company. The BIndDes degree is designed to produce graduates with strong empathy for people, an awareness of the environment and an “industry-ready” knowledge of technology, marketing and business.
Who should study Industrial Design at the UNSW Built Environment?
If you:
- Enjoy drawing and other creative projects, such as working on paper, with craft or other materials
- Enjoy creative thinking and problem solving
- Are interested in how products and systems relate to people and lifestyles
- Enjoy learning about new technologies or the virtual design space of computers
- Are interested in the entire product development process
- Are considering marketing but want to develop new products as part of a marketing strategy
- Are interested in technology but want to apply design creativity within the product development process
- Want a flexible career path with international opportunities
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