BA Digital Design & Engineering

Year 1

• Year 1 will introduce you to basic digital design and fabrication technologies. In a project-based environment, you will apply those skills in the resolution of industry challenges with the support of associate tutors, technical and academic staff.

  Core modules

  • Introduction Studio (DDE401)

    This Module builds the basis of the course skillset by delivering knowledge on foundational aspects of the programme's curriculum such as design thinking, technical design, and design for fabrication. These will be implemented throughout the resolution of a series of challenges aiming at developing an awareness of technological design literacy, design methods and design communication.

  • Digital Fabrication Studio (DDE402)

    This Module focuses on the resolution of design challenges through a combination of digital design and fabrication methods such as prototyping. By familiarising themselves with concepts such as 'design for fabrication' and 'communities of making', students will gain a thorough understanding of digital technologies within critical contexts of creative and technical design practice.

  • Computer-Aided Design (DDE411)

    Students are introduced to specialist computer aided design workflows and software, including introductory content on Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM). This Module clusters software training and hardware inductions required to construct an introductory skillset supporting the studio course. By completing this Module, students are able to utilise CAD methods such as geometric modelling and visualisation, basic digital fabrication techniques, and design representations through drawing, renders and 2D production files.

  • Digital Fabrication (DDE412)

    This Module advances the students' knowledge of design for fabrication tools and methodologies supporting the studio course via hands-on projects, technical inductions and demonstrations. With a focus on the understanding, modelling and prototyping of 3D geometries, digital fabrication skills such as 3D printing, 3D scanning, understanding of printing materials, and CNC milling technologies are delivered through software training resources and technical inductions.

  • Stage 1 Placement Preparation (FAPY100)

    If you’re undertaking a company placement in your third year, this module helps you find a suitable placement, and prepares you for the placement itself.

Year 2

• In Year 2, your skills will be further developed through advanced modelling and fabrication techniques. A system of electives will allow you to acquire knowledge and skills associated to design thinking and methodologies, as well as subject specific knowledge in the form of elective courses to support your own professional interests and employability opportunities in advance of the optional placement year.

   

  Core modules

  Data Studio (DDE501)

  The Data Studio course will allow students to engage with data-driven design methods such as parametric and generative modelling, simulation, and optimisation methods applicable to technical design challenges. By developing a thorough understanding of the role and opportunities offered by data in a design process, students will gain an in-depth understanding of contemporary design technology and industrial frameworks of digital design.

  Interdisciplinary Studio (DDE502)

  The Interdisciplinary Studio Module allows students to engage with creative opportunities outside the boundaries of the creative economy, and meaningfully learn from other areas of expertise by tackling design challenges in areas such as marine, engineering, energy, food, robotics and computing, effectively developing multidisciplinary teamwork, research, and technical skills.

  Data-driven Technical Design (DDE511)

  This Module helps student develop data-focused skills, knowledge, and contemporary research supporting the delivery of Data Studio projects. This includes basic creative computing and visual coding skills, geometric and production optimisation software, technical inductions, and simulation software to assess mechanical and lifecycle aspects of technical design challenges.

  Common Challenge (DDE512)

  The Common Challenge Module is a cross-programme course, inviting students to engage with cognate areas of teaching and learning and team up with diverse groups of students from across your host institution on resolving challenges derived from the UN Sustainability Goals agenda.

   

  Core modules

  • Industry Placement (FAPY602)

    A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich programme undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for the student to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two stages of study and to prepare for the final stage and employment after graduation.

• Optional placement year

• The optional placement year gives you the opportunity to engage with revolutionary industry digitalisation technologies by working in the UK or abroad. Throughout the placement year your learning will be monitored and supported by academic staff, in order to assure the relevance, mentoring and professional development required at this stage of the course.