Product Design (3D)

L3 Level 3
Full Time
1 September 2025 — 19 June 2026
City Centre Campus, Cardiff

About this course

Our Diploma in Design course is great for individuals keen to further their development in the creative sector. Based at our City Centre campus in Cardiff, this programme offers students a chance to learn a variety of approaches to three-dimensional design, as well as covering some elements of graphic design. Learners can expect to develop a range of skills related to their individual area of interest and creative potential. 
The projects will allow you to respond creatively to design briefs and to get a taste of specialist areas such as:

Product Design
Graphic Design
Furniture Design
Computer Graphics
Packaging Design
Film Set and Prop Design
Theatre Design
Interior Design
Architecture

Students will also explore inter-relationships between design technology, target audiences, ergonomics and aesthetics. Skills will include the study of Materials and Workshop Processes, 3D Computer Modeling and Animation, Ergonomic Principles, Graphic Communication and Design in context.

This programme is project-led and studio based. Assessments are continuous and you are graded on submission of project work and assignments throughout. The department has extensive 3D making/Art workshops and computer facilities.

Workshops and Studios:
• Availability of a wide range of materials
• Access to professional tools and equipment for wood, metal, plastics
• Full-scale prototype/ model making production including CNC and 3D printing
• Links with local industries
Computer Suites:
• Mac computers
• Colour Laser Printing Facilities
• Cinema 4D, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator)

Throughout the course, students will be using our industry standard 3D modelling software - Cinema 4D for professional looking presentations.
Live projects and competitions will be sponsored by local industries, encouraging innovation and creativity. These include:

Prop design for Tonto Film Industries
Dragon’s Den competition sponsored by Cardiff & Vale Enterprise
Set Design in association with Royal Opera House and the National Skills Academy - Creative and Cultural Skills.

What you will study

Year 1 topics include:

  • Phase 1: Designing for film set and props (in association with Tonto Films) and designing for stage set (in association with The Royal Opera House)
  • Phase 2: Product design and marketing (with computer 3D modeling)
  • Phase 3: Team design for enterprise and community
  • Phase 4: Sustainable design

Year 2 topics include:

  • Phase 5: Furniture design (with computer 3D modeling)
  • Phase 6: Interior design and architecture – spatial design (with computer 3D modeling)
  • Phase 7: Final Major Project – self-identified design brief
  • Phase 8: Exhibition

Learners will also be studying the Welsh Baccalaureate as part of their programme of study, which also includes weekly tutorial and e-tutorial sessions.

Course fee per year

Studio Fees: £65.00

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs A* - C including English Language or Maths or a Level 2 Diploma in this discipline at Pass grade or higher. You must provide a portfolio of work during your interview.

Teaching and assessment

  • Practical coursework continuous assessments assignments

Important points

  • The College welcomes contact with parents/guardians of students who are under 18.
  • Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
  • Cardiff and Vale College is committed to inclusion and values diversity. We are determined to promote equality of opportunity and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.
  • Cardiff and Vale College reserves the right to make changes to this course without prior notice.
  • Course fees are subject to change. Your fee will be confirmed prior to enrolment.
  • All courses are accurate at the time of upload or print.
  • Courses can only run if there are sufficient numbers.
  • Please note, if you choose three or more course choices, then you may be referred for a careers appointment first. This does not apply to A Level or GCSE choices.
Key information

Start date

1 September 2025

End date

19 June 2026

Time of day

Day Time

Full Time

18 hours per week

Location

City Centre Campus, Cardiff
Maps & directions

Course code

CDCC3F01
L3

Qualification

Product Design (3D)

More...

What our students say

Career prospects & further study

56,000

The Creative industries is one of the fastest growing sectors with 56,000 people employed in Wales.

After completing this course, successful candidates may progress onto a University or Foundation degree in a variety of creative subjects including:

  • Product Design
  • Art and Design
  • Interior Architecture
  • Furniture Design
  • Graphic Design
  • Industrial Design
  • Automotive Design

Many students will also pursue various employment opportunities within the creative industry. Through participation in all areas of this programme, students will build up a comprehensive portfolio to use in future interviews.

Locations

City Centre Campus, Cardiff
City Centre Campus, Cardiff

City Centre Campus,

Dumballs Road,

Cardiff,

CF10 5FE