Design courses

About BA (hons) Ceramic Design in University of the Arts London

Why choose this course at Central Saint Martins

• The subject itself: BA Ceramic Design at Central Saint Martins is one of only two single honours ceramics courses in the country. The design lens through which the course operates offers a unique insight into the subject.
• Design responsibility: The course has long-recognised the need for responsible design practice. This addresses ethical and sustainable studio practice, meaningful public engagement and the need for ceramics education.
• Collaboration: Collaboration within the ceramics profession is at the heart of the course. This way of working is enhanced by a number of live opportunities available to students. In the past, they have worked with clients including Boskke, the British Museum, Camden Libraries, Drink Shop & Do, Luna & Curious and Studio Levien.
• Course team: BA Ceramic Design is delivered by a team of high-profile practitioners and specialist technicians. They are actively involved in professional practice and research and will become part of your individual network.

Course overview

BA Ceramic Design embraces and challenges the versatility of clay as a creative and functional material. On this course, teaching focuses on design through making and haptic engagement with the material. You will apply clay to a diverse range of contexts and design opportunities. We define design as the methodology and strategy through which we teach – a productive enquiry founded in a curiosity for the application of clay in a range of creative or challenging contexts towards a breadth of conceptual responses and a wide range of possible creative applications. These range from the handmade bespoke object to public sculpture, performance, installation and designs for industrial production. Students may define their practice through a range of lenses from designer, maker, craftsperson through to artist. 

On the course, the studio and workshop culture are important. The course team work to foster a vibrant designer-maker-community. You will benefit from excellent workshop facilities as well as the support of specialist technicians. You will learn both traditional hand skills and digital production skills. This includes throwing, modelling, casting, moulding, hand building, decoration, glazing, drawing, printing and firing. As well as hands-on techniques, the course will also provide you with an intellectual framework. You will examine the potential of ceramics to progress into other visual languages, critical discourses and a wide range of professional opportunities.

BA Ceramic Design aims to send its students out into the world as confident and critically aware designers, artists and makers. Teaching is delivered in relation to professional models of practice. Through self-initiated projects, you will question, articulate and present your ideas. The course also has links with a range of practitioners and external organisations. This provides opportunities for collaborative projects. Previously, these have included the British Museum, Busaba Eathai, Ella Doran, Joseph, National Memorial Arboretum, NIO, Marks & Spencer, The Conran Shop, Traidcraft, Vista Alegre and Wedgwood. 

Entry requirements

• High School leaving examinations - We will consider any High School leaving examinations that are considered to be the equivalent to A-level examinations in the UK.

English language requirements

• IELTS: 6.0 - 6.5 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL iBT: 80 - 90 overall.
• PTE Academic: 51 - 58 (with no less than 51 in each component).

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