Product Design Engineering
Glasgow Campus, United Kingdom
MSc Product Design Engineering
Glasgow School of Art
Product Design Engineering
MSc Product Design Engineering at Glasgow School of Art
The MSc in Product Design Engineering is a collaboratively delivered programme between GSA's PDE department and the James Watt School of Engineering at the University of Glasgow. In the first two stages, the curriculum is equally split between the two institutions, while the final Masters project stage is primarily based at GSA.
This programme develops graduates with both creative drive and engineering rigour, preparing them to respond to the increasing challenges and opportunities from existing and emerging world marketplaces. Students gain the skills to design products with significant engineering content, address user needs, and optimise solutions for specific markets.
The MSc is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) on behalf of the Engineering Council, meeting the academic requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng). This accreditation provides an excellent springboard for careers in industry, consultancy, or further academic research.
Key Programme Highlights
- Joint delivery between GSA and the University of Glasgow's James Watt School of Engineering, combining creative and technical expertise from two leading Scottish institutions
- Professional accreditation by IMechE and IED enabling a pathway to Chartered Engineer (CEng) status
- Studio-based, student-centred learning with access to prototyping and manufacturing facilities at both GSA and the University of Glasgow
- Industry engagement through live projects, industrial visits, and opportunities for collaborative final-year projects with leading companies
Curriculum and Modules
The MSc Product Design Engineering curriculum is structured across three stages, blending design studio practice with engineering theory. Subjects range from Human Factors to Integrated Engineering Design, with contextual studies covering entrepreneurial, technology, ethical, and societal considerations.
Studio-based design project activities that develop creative problem-solving skills and the ability to bring product concepts from ideation through to refined design proposals.
Explores the integration of engineering principles into the product design process, covering materials selection, structural analysis, and manufacturing considerations.
Focuses on understanding user needs, ergonomics, and usability testing to ensure products are designed with the end user at the centre of the development process.
Examines how emerging technologies can improve life and be incorporated into product development, covering topics such as smart materials, sensors, and digital manufacturing.
Develops management skills and entrepreneurial thinking, preparing graduates to bring products to market and navigate the commercial landscape of product design engineering.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Entry to the MSc Product Design Engineering is competitive and requires a strong academic background in a relevant engineering or design discipline. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, which will guide you through each step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Degree Requirement2.2 Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area
- Relevant SubjectsProduct design engineering, mechanical engineering, electronic and electrical engineering, or closely related disciplines
- GPA RequirementMinimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent
- Design AssignmentDepending on experience and qualifications, applicants may be asked to complete a design engineering assignment
- Professional ExperienceEquivalent professional practice may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications
English Language Requirements
- IELTS (UKVI Academic)Overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in all components
- Pre-sessional EnglishAn acceptable Pre-sessional English Language Programme with an outcome equating to the required IELTS scores
- English-speaking Country DegreeA degree from an English-speaking country or nationality of an English-speaking country as listed by UKVI may serve as proof of English language ability
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 postgraduate students, including merit-based and need-based awards. International Merit Scholarships offering tuition fee reductions are available, along with additional funding opportunities administered through the School of Design. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on the best scholarship options for your profile.
GSA International Merit Scholarship
Tuition fee reduction (amount varies by year)Available to international fee-paying students who have received a conditional or unconditional offer. These scholarships provide a tuition fee reduction and are assessed based on academic merit.
GSA Postgraduate Welcome Scholarship
GBP 2,000 tuition fee discountSelected by the Board of Governors for postgraduate applicants who demonstrate financial need. Open to Home and RUK fee-status students on all Masters programmes.
School of Design Scholarships
Varies by awardA range of scholarships specific to the School of Design are published annually, typically in March or April for students starting in September. These may include awards based on merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to design practice.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MSc Product Design Engineering programme are highly sought after by leading international companies. The programme's combination of creative design skills and engineering rigour, along with its professional accreditation, prepares you for a wide range of roles in product development and innovation.
Typical Career Roles
Notable Graduate Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The Glasgow School of Art is internationally recognised as one of Europe's leading institutions for creative education. GSA has been consistently ranked in the top 20 institutions internationally for Art and Design for over a decade, and is the only institution in Scotland to achieve this distinction.
| 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 |
| Business and Management Studies | QS World University Rankings | #12 globally (2025) |
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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