Product Design and Development Degree Apprenticeship
Product Design and Development Degree Apprenticeship
Product Design Development Engineers work on all stages of product creation, product modification and product componentry. They support activities ranging on early concept feasibility, Computer Aided Design and other modelling, activities and stages through to final preparation for launch and customers. This includes working in concept studios, rapid prototyping, assembly, testing, validating and analysing performance. Typically you will work closely with suppliers and managers in bringing new concepts to life or contributing to redesigns of existing products.
During the foundation stage you will develop a solid grasp of the core engineering skills including:
How to comply with statutory requirements and stringent organisational safety requirements
How to effectively use, interpret and evaluate a range of engineering data sources and documentation
Organising work efficiently and effectively in managing engineering resources when completing tasks
Producing components using hand fitting techniques and producing mechanical assemblies
Producing Electrical or Electronic Drawings or CAD Models using a CAD system
Preparing and using lathes, milling and other general or specialist high tech equipment
Applying mechanical, electrical and electronic devices and equipment
Using computer software packages to assist with engineering activities
Producing and managing engineering project plans
During the development stage you will improve general engineering skills and then progress to develop skills in:
Project Management in undertaking engineering activities
Establishing design briefs, presenting and discussing technical proposals
Managing and controlling product design change
Supporting team feasibility design reviews.
Demonstrating technical and commercial management in planning and managing tasks.
Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their Apprenticeships. In order to optimise success, candidates will typically have 5 GCSE's at Grade C or above, including Mathematics, English and a Science, Technology or Engineering related subject, as well as A Levels at grade C or above in both a Mathematical based subject and a Science, Technology, Engineering or additional Mathematics related subject, or 90+ credits in an Engineering BTEC. The Apprenticeship as a Product Design and Development Technician provides a potential preparation route for this Apprenticeship.
Please note that some of our apprenticeship programmes have minimum entry requirements, particularly regarding English and maths, as set out by Skills England and funding rules.The apprentice would complete a HND or Foundation Degree which would provide the foundation stage of the knowledge elements in the competence qualification. It will support the fundamental scientific and mathematical principles that equip apprentices with the understanding required to operate effectively and efficiently at high level within this sector. As a core the engineer needs to cover around 960 academic Guided Learning Hours, in order to have a solid grasp of;-
Mathematics and science for engineers
Materials and manufacture
Mechanical. electrical and electronic principles and applications
Statics and dynamics
How to undertake and apply business-led projects
Engineering operations and business management
Applying advanced technology techniques
For the Development Phase the apprentice will build on their Foundation knowledge by completing a BSc (Hons) or BEng (Hons) in Engineering. Here they will expand their understanding to a higher level and commence on specialised modules during the latter part of this qualification.
At University Centre South Devon, we’re committed to helping you succeed – academically, professionally and personally. Whether you’re studying full-time or part-time, you’ll benefit from supportive teaching, flexible study options, dedicated academic and wellbeing support, and access to funding to help with the cost of living. Below you’ll find essential information about how our university-level courses are delivered, assessed and supported, so you can feel confident in your next steps.
Financial support and bursaries
Funding is available to help you with living costs during your studies via Student Finance England. We are committed to supporting our students with a number of bursary packages, which you will receive if you meet particular criteria, and does not need to be repaid. Bursaries are awarded in addition to any funding received from Student Finance England.
When studied part-time, the duration of the course depends on the speed at which you wish to progress through it. This is called the ‘intensity of study’. For example, studying half-time would be equivalent to 50 per cent intensity of study and would typically extend the length of the course from two to three years. As part-time study will mean attendance of some modules that are on the full-time timetable, it may mean that you will be required to attend modules timetabled over three days of the week. You may be able to change the intensity of study during your course. Not all intensities of study are available for all programmes.
Teaching
Our dedicated teaching teams will support with your application of theoretical and practical knowledge and will be invaluable to your development. Their passion and enthusiasm is exceptional, with dedicated support and tutorial time available so that you can make the most of your studies.
Teaching staff
You will be taught by an experienced teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course. The team includes academic staff, professional practitioners with industry experience, and where relevant, technicians. Postgraduate students undertaking teacher training may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader. Our teaching is informed by research, professional practice and industry experience to provide you with the most up to date and relevant learning opportunities.
Assessment
We recognise feedback as an essential component of your learning and progression. We adopt a feed-forward approach whereby feedback is given in a developmental manner to support your continued progression. You will receive feedback on all assessments within 20 working days.
Academic support
A key feature of our university level programmes is the exceptional support we provide for students. We are passionate about providing dedicated and bespoke support services to help you make the most of your time here and to maximise your potential. We have an experienced team who offer a range of services, and regular 1:1 contact time with your personal tutor guarantees your professional and personal development. We can provide help with study skills, written English, academic writing, research skills, critical thinking, and revision. We hold the principles of equality and opportunity for all in the highest regard. That’s why our degrees are designed to be accessible for anyone, regardless of your personal circumstances. We endeavour to make reasonable adjustments and remove any barriers to your learning. We also offer more flexible timetables than other institutions to minimise the impact studying has on your personal life and responsibilities.
Independent learning
When not attending lectures, seminars or practicals you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research in the library, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations where applicable. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities, including the library, the Research Centre, and our course specific environments.
International students with UK settled status
Qualification and Language Requirements:
- International Qualifications: If you hold qualifications from outside the UK, these must be officially translated and verified through ECCTIS.
- English Language Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of proficiency by achieving an IELTS score of 6.8 or above.
