The course combines studio projects and practical workshop based sessions, where ideas and making are integrated. Students have a base studio, where design development, group tutorials, crits and presentations take place. Modules combine lectures, workshops, seminars, and tutorials, and encourage a high level of debate and interaction. Students are encouraged to see their learning as an interactive experience, in which they play an active part, so that they emerge as resourceful and independent professionals, committed to pursuing their ambitions beyond graduation. The degree is staffed by practicing professionals, and Visiting Lecturers who regularly contribute specialist expertise.

You will work with traditional techniques and integrate new technologies in large workshops, with expert technical support. The workshops are the focus of the student experience our students are using the latest laser cutting and rapid prototyping equipment as well as the traditional equipped workshop to develop their practice. 

A particular feature of the course is its practical workshop programme, establishing and refining your understanding of the tactile qualities and properties of materials and how they can be manipulated to express your ideas. This awareness and sensibility is also developed through progressive studio projects, providing an initial framework for individual research and creative interpretation, which eventually allows you to focus your interests and establish your unique identity. 

Work placement

Graduate with invaluable work experience alongside your degree and stand out from the crowd.  

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a work placement sandwich year. It’s a chance to explore career possibilities, make valuable contacts and gain sought after professional skills.  

Our dedicated Careers and Employment team are here to help guide you through the process.

If you take up a work placement between your second and third year of study, at the University of Hertfordshire you’ll pay no tuition fee for this year. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it. 

What's next for my career?

The degree can potentially lead to a wide range of career opportunities, from small business, to design for manufacture, unique artifacts for exhibition and commission, museums and collectors, running workshops, teaching, curating and retail, journalism and styling, as well as postgraduate study

With a focus on fresh ideas, using materials and techniques in inventive ways and understanding contemporary markets, this course helps you reach a professional level.

Our graduates have gone on to teach, curate, set up their own businesses and even showcase their work at the Royal Academy, the London Art Fair, Liberty London and through the Craft Council’s Hothouse Makers programme.