BA (Hons) Ceramic Design (with Diploma in Professional Studies)

University of the Arts London

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.

We are committed to developing ethical ceramic design practices. To achieve this, we are working to embed UAL's Principles for Climate, Social and Racial Justice into the course.