Product Design at SETU
Level 7 & Level 8 Undergraduate Product Design Degrees in Ireland
South East Technological University Carlow Campus
Study Product Design
At SETU Carlow
Studio-based design education in Carlow since 1971 — where creative thinking, technical skills, and hands-on making come together to prepare designers for the real world.
Studio-based design education at SETU since 1971
WHAT IS PRODUCT DESIGN?
Product design is the practice of identifying real human needs and developing thoughtful, functional, and responsible solutions through the design of physical products, systems, and experiences.
It combines creative thinking, technical understanding, and hands-on making — allowing designers to move from initial insight through to tested and refined outcomes.
At SETU, product design education is rooted in applied studio practice. Students develop ideas through sketching, model making, digital tools, and iterative prototyping — working individually and collaboratively across a range of real-world design challenges.
Why Study Product Design at SETU?
A Design Education Built On Real Foundations
Studying Product Design at SETU offers a distinctive undergraduate learning environment grounded in studio-based practice, applied design thinking, and real-world engagement.
Studio-Based Learning
Dedicated design studios and prototyping spaces support hands-on, project-led practice from day one.
Small Class Sizes
With small class groups (Approx 30) and 28 hours of weekly contact time, you get regular support, clear feedback, and plenty of time with your lecturers as you build confidence and develop your design skills.
Industry-Standard Facilities
From 3D printing and digital modelling to hands-on workshop tools, students have dedicated timetabled workshop hours to prototype, test, and bring their ideas to life.
International Experience
In Year 3, students can pursue Erasmus+ exchange, industry work placement, or live project work with external partners.
Project-Led Curriculum
Real-world design challenges run across all years, culminating in a self-directed final year project that builds professional portfolio work.
54 Years of Design
A long-standing tradition of applied design practice at SETU Carlow — one of the longest-running design programmes in Ireland.
Claudia’s Story
Claudia now works as a designer for CarveOn Leather, where she operates across multiple areas of the business, including new product development, graphics, printing, machine maintenance, engraving, photography, branding, and client communication.
Product Design Degrees at SETU
Two Pathways, One Shared Foundation
Both programmes share a common curriculum across Years 1–3, giving students a broad foundation before choosing their direction.
BA (Hons) Product Design Innovation
4 YEARS / CAO CODE: SE202
A four-year honours programme combining creative ideation with practical design skills — sketching, modelmaking, digital tools, and collaborative practice — culminating in a self-directed final project.
BA (Hons) Design
3 YEARS / CAO CODE: SE201
A three-year honours degree building design expertise across products, visuals, and experiences — with opportunities for placement, Erasmus+ and portfolio development. Graduates may progress to Level 8.
Programme Structure
The Product Design programme at SETU includes the BA (Hons) Design (Level 7) and the BA (Hons) Product Design Innovation (Level 8), which follow a shared undergraduate curriculum in Years 1–3. During these years, students build core capabilities through studio-based learning, design thinking, prototyping, and applied product design projects, establishing a strong foundation in contemporary product design education in Ireland.
The Level 8 honours degree includes an additional fourth year, providing greater depth through advanced studio practice, self-directed project work, and professional preparation. This honours year supports students in consolidating their design direction, strengthening their individual design approach, and preparing for careers in product design and design-led innovation.
Progression, Transfer & Study Opportunities
Because Years 1–3 are common to both the Level 7 and Level 8 pathways, students develop a broad and robust foundation before choosing their next step. In Year 3, Semester 1 (common to both programmes), students may have the opportunity to broaden their learning through a range of applied product design study options, subject to availability and programme requirements.
These options may include participation in the Erasmus+ exchange programme, a period of work experience / industry placement, or engagement in a live studio project delivered in collaboration with external partners. These pathways support international experience, workplace learning, and real-world product design practice.
Students who successfully complete the Level 7 award may have the opportunity to progress to the Level 8 honours year, subject to academic performance, programme requirements, and standard university regulations in place at the time of application.
Careers in Product Design
Graduates of product design programmes pursue careers across diverse sectors where design plays a central role.
The problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills developed through design education also enable careers in innovation management, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary research.
Graduates work as:
- Product & Industrial Designer
- Medical Device Design / R&D
- Human Factors & Usability Designers
- UX/UI Designer & Digital Modeller
- Prototype Development Specialists
- Creative Consultant & Design Strategist
- Marketing, Graphic & Brand Specialist
Hands-On Learning & Facilities
At SETU Carlow, product design students learn in dedicated studios and workshops equipped for prototyping, modelmaking, and digital fabrication.
From traditional workshop tools to industry-standard software and 3D printing, students are supported to bring ideas to life and to explore the intersection of concept, form, and human needs.
Ready to Explore Product Design?
Whether you’re considering a career in creative innovation or looking for a design degree that emphasises making and impact, SETU offers pathways that blend conceptual thinking with hands-on practice. Discover how product design at SETU can unlock your creative potential and prepare you for a future in design.