3-Dimensional Design (Product Design)

Any A Level subjects can be combined. A Levels can also be studied alongside a BTEC Level 3 Certificate.

You will study an AS Level in the first year of this course.

This is an Art and Design course focusing on 3-Dimensional, functional outcomes.

This course will grow your understanding of 3-Dimensional (3D) art and design. You will develop your capacity to design and make products, produce outcomes and appreciate the complex relationship between design and materials. The focus of the course is on aesthetics of design that include sculpture, architecture and product design.

What topics will I study?

This course starts with several short projects on different themes, using various materials including wood, metal, plastics, ceramics and plaster. Themes may include jewellery, furniture, tableware and architecture. An extended project follows, where the student decides on the theme, develops ideas, selects appropriate materials and produces a 3D outcome. The extended project will form the majority of the final submission.
Candidates will undertake self-directed research to inform their studies and will use the Design Cycle to generate and refine work. Health and safety is promoted at all times when completing practical tasks.

You will:

• Develop a personal artistic/design vision
• Improve both your hand and digital drawing skills
• Develop creative solutions to design problems through independent thinking and practical exploration of process and materials
• Understand the key characteristics of materials and processes and how to utilise these through hands on experience
• Develop knowledge and understanding of the broader issues for artists and designers, such as environmental sustainability of products and their manufacture
• Learn to work with materials including ceramics, plastics, plaster, metal, wood and use 3D printers and a laser cutter

What experiences will I get?

• Educational trips and visits to current exhibitions, museums and galleries, for example, the Design Museum (London)
• Links to local industries which can tie in to project briefs
• Presentations about industry experts
• Support with progression including visits to local businesses and nationwide Universities

Your work will be assessed informally throughout the course. Your final grade is determined by an external moderator, end of course assessment of the portfolio unit and an externally set assignment unit.

Future Steps:You could progress to specialist courses at Exeter College, including a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design. Alternatively, a university degree in your chosen area of interest or pursue a career path in design. Career possibilities include product design, architecture, interior design. 3D design also feeds into careers around ecology and sustainability through developing an understanding of consumer and lifestyle awareness. Future job roles might also include sculptor, prop designer, architect, model maker, jeweller, furniture designer, goldsmith and fashion accessory designer.

You will need eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths. This subject requires a grade 4 or above in GCSE Art or Design Technology. If you are not taking Art GCSE, you will be required to show a portfolio of work and or undertake a creative attribution project

The CCI building boasts a range of specialist learning environments which accommodate equipment and technical support for working with a wide variety of materials. This includes wood, metal and ceramics. As well as this there will be access to a Learning Centre, an onsite shop for basic materials and computer suites equipped with the latest Adobe Creative Suite software.

£35 – to cover access to enhanced equipment and facilities; some materials and supplies. Resource fees can be paid at or immediately after enrolment in late August via the college’s online payment system Wisepay, which can be accessed on our website here: exe-coll.ac.uk/pay