Design Crafts BA (Hons)

Program Overview

The Design Crafts BA (Hons) at De Montfort University is a hands-on, multi-disciplinary program that explores traditional and emerging craft techniques using various materials. Students develop their artistic style, entrepreneurial skills, and understanding of craft contexts and markets, preparing them for diverse careers in the creative industries. The program emphasizes professional development, flexibility in object production, and opportunities for industry engagement and international experiences.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Develop your artistic style and entrepreneurial skills for a range of careers in the creative industries.
• Explore both traditional hand skills and emerging technologies while working with a wide range of materials.
• Develop an understanding of craft contexts and markets alongside environmental and ethical issues surrounding the practice of craft.
• Nurture you into an industry-ready and adaptable creative professional with a clear sense of your own practice.

Program Description:

• This hands-on and multi-disciplinary course allows students to explore a range of materials and processes, including hot and cold glass, clay, paper, fine metals, plastics, resin, wood, and textiles.
• Students will specialize in a particular area, selecting their own direction based on their interests and aspirations.
• There is a strong focus on professional and entrepreneurial skills, preparing students for diverse careers within the creative industries.
• Students will have the flexibility to produce a variety of objects, from individual items to installations and designs for industry.
• Opportunities exist to enter national and international competitions and participate in exhibitions.

Outline:

Program Content:

• Exploration of traditional hand skills and emerging technologies
• Work with various materials like glass, clay, paper, metal, wood, etc.
• Development of a personal creative voice and exploration of processes
• Understanding of craft contexts and markets, and related environmental/ethical issues
• Focus on professional and entrepreneurial skills
• Flexibility in producing various objects

Course Schedule:

• Block teaching approach, with most students studying one subject at a time
• Regular assessments and feedback

Modules:

• Year 1:
• Craft Skills
• Design and Make
• Craft Projects
• Craft in Context
• Year 2:
• Live Projects
• Craft Skills 2
• Craft Cultures
• Creative Practice
• Year 3:
• Craft Practice
• Craft Connections
• Design Crafts Projects
• Personal Projects

Assessment:

• Continuous assessment through various means, including presentations, coursework, and written work.
• Evaluation of sketchbooks, design sheets, physical objects, portfolios, and log books.

Teaching:

• Regular timetabled practical workshops, inductions, lectures, seminars, and tutorials.
• Opportunity to receive ongoing feedback and participate in group and one-to-one tutorials.
• Placements, exchanges, collaborations, and live briefs with external clients.
• Award-winning facilities and resources in the Vijay Patel Building.
• Experienced teaching staff and visiting speakers from the creative industries.

Careers:

• Graduates can pursue diverse careers such as craftsperson, jeweler, ceramicist, textile artist, designer-maker, glass artist, designer, researcher, consultant, curator, buyer, stylist, or educator.
• Opportunities for setting up own workshops, working in design studios, the craft industry, and collaborations with organizations like the National Trust.
• Dedicated careers service provides work experience opportunities and resources to help students plan their futures.

Other:

• DMU Global program offers international experiences, including trips, study, internships, and exchanges.
• Artist in Residence program provides selected graduates with access to workshops and support after finishing studies.
• DMU is involved in the Crafts Council’s Firing Up scheme, offering volunteering opportunities in local schools.
• High-standard accommodation and student union with numerous societies and sports clubs.
• Course code: W200
• Duration: 3 years full-time, 4 years with placement
• Tuition fees: £9,250 (2024/25) for UK students, £15,750 for international students

UK

2024/25 tuition fees for UK students: £9,250

EU/International

2024/25 tuition fees for international students: £15,750