Product Design Engineering
Glasgow Campus, United Kingdom
BEng (Hons) Product Design Engineering
Glasgow School of Art
Product Design Engineering
Product Design Engineering at Glasgow School of Art
Product Design Engineering (PDE) brings together two distinctive cultures: the studio and creative environment of the Glasgow School of Art (GSA) and the James Watt School of Engineering at the University of Glasgow. This unique collaboration allows you to combine your academic and creative abilities to design exciting and innovative products, building a strong foundation for a career as a product design engineer.
Students are introduced to industry through live projects and visits, and the final year involves an individual major project that can be developed in collaboration with industry partners. Contextual studies relating to project work include entrepreneurial, technology, human factors, ethical, and societal considerations, ensuring graduates are well-rounded professionals.
PDE is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), and the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED), enabling graduates to work toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) status. All GSA degree programmes are validated by the University of Glasgow, providing internationally recognised qualifications.
Key Program Highlights
- Joint programme delivered by Glasgow School of Art and the University of Glasgow's James Watt School of Engineering
- Professionally accredited by IMechE, IET, and IED for Chartered Engineer status
- Industry-embedded learning through live projects, fieldtrips, and collaborative final-year projects
- Unique blend of creative studio-based design education and rigorous engineering theory
Curriculum and Modules
The BEng Product Design Engineering curriculum integrates design studio work at the Glasgow School of Art with engineering theory and laboratory sessions at the University of Glasgow. The early years build core skills and confidence in the design process, while later years allow you to explore and specialise through advanced projects and independent study.
Studio-based design project activities covering user needs, aesthetics, semantics, and the complete product design process from concept to detailed proposal.
Core courses in mathematics, dynamics, statics, electronics, thermodynamics, and engineering skills, supported by individual and group project work and laboratory sessions.
Study of engineering materials, manufacturing processes, and the costs involved in production, including understanding of how material selection influences design decisions.
Advanced engineering subjects covering dynamics, control systems, and fluid power, developing your ability to analyse and optimise mechanical systems.
Courses in heat transfer, mathematical modelling, and simulation, equipping you with analytical tools for engineering problem-solving and design optimisation.
Elective and Advanced Study Options
Admission Requirements
The BEng Product Design Engineering programme requires strong academic performance in mathematics and science subjects. Applicants should demonstrate both analytical ability and creative potential. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on eligibility and the application process.
Academic Requirements
- SQA HighersAABB at S5 or AAAAA by end of S6, including Mathematics and Physics or Engineering Science
- A-LevelsStrong performance required in Mathematics and Physics (Design and Technology may replace Physics for 3D or Product Design options only)
- International Baccalaureate36 points (6,6,5 at HL) to 32 points (6,5,5 at HL) with HL Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) and Physics required
- Subject RequirementsMathematics and Physics are mandatory at the appropriate level for all qualification pathways
- PortfolioA design engineering assignment may be set depending on the applicant's prior experience
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall 6.5 with no sub-test below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT90 overall (Listening 19, Reading 20, Speaking 19, Writing 23)
- Pre-sessional EnglishAcceptable pre-sessional English language courses may be considered as an alternative pathway
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The Glasgow School of Art offers a range of scholarships for new undergraduate students, including International Merit Scholarships providing tuition fee reductions for international fee-paying students. Additional awards based on financial need are also available. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on finding the right scholarship for you.
GSA International Merit Scholarship
Tuition fee reduction (amount varies)Available to international fee-paying students who have received a conditional or unconditional offer. These merit-based awards recognise academic excellence and creative potential.
GSA Financial Support Scholarships
Varies by awardA range of need-based and merit-based scholarships administered by the Glasgow School of Art, with separate application required by the annual deadline. Eligible applicants may apply for up to two scholarships.
School of Innovation and Technology Scholarships
Varies by awardProgramme-specific scholarships available through the GSA School of Innovation and Technology for students enrolled in Product Design Engineering and related programmes.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
PDE graduates benefit from excellent career prospects across a wide range of industries. The programme's strong industry connections, including collaborations with leading companies, provide valuable networking and employment opportunities. Many graduates also go on to establish their own design engineering consultancies.
Potential Career Roles
Notable Employer Collaborations
Rankings and Recognition
The Glasgow School of Art is internationally recognised as one of Europe's leading institutions for art, design, and creative education. Consistently ranked among the top 20 worldwide for Art and Design, the GSA has maintained its position as one of only three UK institutions in this elite group for over a decade.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art and Design | QS World University Rankings | #8 globally (2026) |
| Design | QS World University Rankings | Top 5 in the UK |
| Arts, Drama and Music | Complete University Guide | #7 in the UK |
| Architecture | Guardian University Guide | #28 in the UK (2024) |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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