A Level - Design Technology
BackCourse Information
What does the course involve?
Design & Technology merges curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity to address real-world challenges. If you have a technical mindset, practical skills, and a creative flair, and if you are motivated to explore complex problems and create user-focused solutions, then Design & Technology might be the perfect fit for you.
You will engage in firsthand projects using industry-standard tools like 3D printers and laser cutters, complemented by lessons on the theoretical aspects of design, material properties, and manufacturing. This approach will enhance your understanding of real-world challenges and enable you to devise effective, empathetic solutions. We will explore topics such as ecology, ethics, economics, cultural diversity, and social responsibility, and discuss how designers can positively impact people’s lives.
Your project work will encompass research, creative problem-solving, project management, and both designing and making skills. You will learn to generate and communicate design ideas using professional computer-aided design (CAD) software, while also honing your freehand sketching and rendering abilities. You will consolidate these new skills through a major coursework project, which includes creating a portfolio and building a prototype. This is your opportunity to delve into your interests, as you will set your own brief and develop work that supports your unique progression path.
Balancing the practical and theoretical aspects of the course while managing your own projects is challenging, but it equips you with valuable transferable skills for any industry.
Is it for me?
You will enjoy this course if you are organised, creative, practical, and driven. Do you see opportunities to enhance everyday items and products? Can you envision ways to make spaces, products, or systems more sustainable? Are you intrigued by how things are made and take a scientific approach to learning about materials and processes? This course focuses on solving problems and developing innovative solutions
How will I be assessed?
50% Exam
50% Coursework
Where can this course take me?
Students can go on to university courses, apprenticeships or employment in engineering, product design, architecture, interior design, graphic design, 3D design, fashion & textile design art, and many others.
Entry Requirements
At least 6 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4:
Grade 5 in GCSE Maths
Grade 5 in GCSE Design Technology if taken
Grade 4 in GCSE English Language
Additional Costs
There are no charges to study this course. However, there may be some costs for trips
Additional qualifications
Design & Technology A Level complements sciences, Maths, Engineering and other technical courses, as well as artistic and creative subjects.
UCAS tariff points
Grades and UCAS Points
A* - 56
A - 48
B - 40
C - 32
D - 24
E - 16
