Design

The subject at Selwyn

This is a new course for 2024 entry onwards. Design combines architecture, engineering and materials science in one degree, giving you the opportunity to design solutions to environmental and societal challenges. You will learn how small and large-scale designs such as physical objects, apps, artificial intelligence, electronics or architecture and planning systems can influence people, cultures, economies and the natural world.

The course is structured around a series of core studio projects which will require you to create solutions to real-world problems: from planning stage through to pitching a final product and evaluating user impact. For most projects, you will be working with stakeholders such as clients, end-users and suppliers. Outside of the studio, you will learn about related subjects including design history, philosophy, mathematics, engineering and natural sciences, which will then be applied to your design projects.

Based in the Department of Architecture, you will have access to a variety of facilities such as workshops, studios, reprographics, flexible co-working spaces and a new digital fabrication lab.

The Teaching Fellows

Our Director of Studies for Design is to be confirmed.

Qualities we are looking for

You must have an enthusiasm for both the arts and the sciences. The ability to draw and an interest in the engineering, materials, design and architecture are essential, as is a knowledge of mathematics.

Subject requirements

We require applicants for Design to be studying A-Level (or equivalent) Mathematics and we will require an A* grade.

Interviews

Applicants for Design have an interview with the Director of Studies, in the form of a 30-minute conversation, discussing the applicant’s interest in Design as well as their portfolio. The portfolio should typically contain a range of pieces of work (e.g. drawings, paintings, photographs of three-dimensional work, etc.) and related sketch-books. The best candidates will be able to show that they have worked independently, beyond their school Art or Design syllabus.

Admissions Assessment

Details on any admissions assessment will be updated here in due course.

February 2024