Designing for Functionality 12 credits

About the course

The course consists of six modules:

Design Process and Design Methodology, 1.5 credits

The student is introduced to the design process and relevant design methods, as well as related analysis and information-gathering methods. Students are encouraged to analyze and evaluate design decisions based on social, ecological, and economic sustainability.

Learning Goals: ELO 1

Theme Week: Biology, Ecology & Environment, 1.5 credits

The module focuses on exploring various ecosystem aspects and contexts relevant to the design field. The module constitutes a theme that spans across the years of the bachelor's program.

Learning Goals: ELO 2

Workshop Technology, Production Methods & Sustainability, 4.5 credits

The module introduces more fundamental knowledge about processing methods, materials, and components, as well as practical training in relevant techniques. The focus is on developing skills to independently handle equipment and perform practical work safely and efficiently. The module also integrates aspects such as work environment, sustainability, and production methods.

Learning Goals: ELO 3, ELO 4, ELO 5, ELO 6, ELO 10

Introduction to Ergonomics, 3.0 credits

The module provides a fundamental understanding of human physical and cognitive conditions, needs, and limitations in relation to the design of products, work environments, and other systems. It covers central principles of ergonomics, including load ergonomics, applied anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, anthropometry, cognitive ergonomics, gender, and psychosocial factors. Additionally, basic legislation related to work environment and safety is introduced.

Learning Goals: ELO 7

Design Project, 3.0 credits

In this module, a short investigative group project is carried out with a focus on ergonomic analysis and development, where students apply the design process and various design methods. Among other things, students design and evaluate their design proposals with simple 3D prototypes in a relevant scale. The project work provides students with the opportunity to apply and reflect on the design process, use creative methods, and develop a norm-critical approach.

Learning Goals: ELO 4, ELO 8, ELO 9, ELO 11

Reflection, 1.5 credits

In the final module, the student will reflect on and document their design process in relation to their own learning development. The student collects and organizes their thoughts, ideas, and insights throughout the process.

Learning Goals: ELO 12

Show syllabus

This course is part of a programme

This course contains occasions that are included in a degree programme at Umeå university and applies only to those of you who are admitted to the programme. You will receive information about application times and what applies to you from your institution.

Read about choosing courses within programmes

Apply

Spring 2027
- Designing for Functionality
  
  Offered as a part of a Degree programme
  
  VT27 / Umeå / English / On site
  
  Application opens 15 September 2026
  
  Save education at universityadmissions.se
  
  Show more Show less
  
  Starts
  18 January 2027
  
  Ends
  24 March 2027
  
  Number of credits
  12 credits
  
  Type of studies
  On site
  
  Study pace
  100%
  
  Teaching hours
  Daytime
  
  Study location
  Umeå
  
  Language
  English
  
  Application code
  UMU-5200B
  
  Eligibility
  
  In addition to general eligibility, admission to the course requires at least 15 credits completed in the Bachelor's Programme in Industrial Design (DGIND), or equivalent and English B/6
  
  Selection
  
  Is only given for students at programme DGIND, Guaranteed place
  
  Application
  The online application opens 15 September 2026 at 09:00 CET. Application deadline is 15 October 2026.
  
  Application and tuition fees
  As a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
  
  Application fee: SEK 900
  
  Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 0
  
  Total fee: SEK 0
  
  Details about tuition, fees and funding

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