3 answers
Shreeya
Student
1
Question
Updated
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Can I follow product design successfully with ease after taking Biology instead of maths because that's what I'm interested in ?
How do I follow a path of product design by taking PCB and a seperate design course. I have no interest in maths even though my dad says it's almost compulsory. I was unable to do maths since a low grade. Biology has always been a strong subject. But can one pursue design by choosing it? If yes, what is the success rate? Currently in class 11 pursuing design.
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3 answers
Liam Rielly
Data Center Technician
188
Answers
Manassas, Virginia
Updated
Liam’s Answer
Can you, yes! Is it likely you will fit right into the field, maybe not. Definitely if the products you are designing are based on or around biology, there would be an advantage. If you are trying to just design a product for a company, they will likely want an engineering degree. If you did something like got a biology degree and filled in the three classes you needed to appease your employer, that might work. It's hard to say with certainty that an employer would look at a bio degree and be satisfied with it.
When you get a degree, it is more an accomplishment and commitment rather than a base qualification for a job. Its easiest to look at the technology behind a job and say "just get a degree in that". Sometimes its a requirement for credentialing reasons (you are not getting a liberal arts degree and just becoming a practicing medical doctor) but usually employers like to see what you have accomplished and what you are capable of doing as well. If I had to recommend someone for general product design, I'd say mechanical engineering would get you into that field. There is not a hard requirement for that however.
The next step you will have to figure out is how can you link a biology degree to product design. If you have an idea in your head on how they relate, then you need to lean into that path. If you are reading job requirement and descriptions for product design and they are saying "4 year STEM related degree" as a requirement, then cool! But make sure you have a plan to link them.
So can you? Yes. Is it going to be a guaranteed direct path? Likely not.
When you get a degree, it is more an accomplishment and commitment rather than a base qualification for a job. Its easiest to look at the technology behind a job and say "just get a degree in that". Sometimes its a requirement for credentialing reasons (you are not getting a liberal arts degree and just becoming a practicing medical doctor) but usually employers like to see what you have accomplished and what you are capable of doing as well. If I had to recommend someone for general product design, I'd say mechanical engineering would get you into that field. There is not a hard requirement for that however.
The next step you will have to figure out is how can you link a biology degree to product design. If you have an idea in your head on how they relate, then you need to lean into that path. If you are reading job requirement and descriptions for product design and they are saying "4 year STEM related degree" as a requirement, then cool! But make sure you have a plan to link them.
So can you? Yes. Is it going to be a guaranteed direct path? Likely not.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Software Engineer and Career Mentor
663
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
You can definitely pursue product design even if you're studying Biology. What really counts is your ability to understand people and solve everyday problems with creative ideas. Your portfolio is more important than subjects like Math.
Focus on creating visible work by redesigning simple objects like a chair, bottle, or phone stand. Develop sketches or basic 3D models and improve them with feedback from teachers, online communities, or mentors. Watching videos, reading case studies, and gaining experience through volunteering or internships can also give you a better understanding of the field. Your success in admissions and your career will mostly depend on the quality of your portfolio and how much you improve, not your choice of subjects.
Focus on creating visible work by redesigning simple objects like a chair, bottle, or phone stand. Develop sketches or basic 3D models and improve them with feedback from teachers, online communities, or mentors. Watching videos, reading case studies, and gaining experience through volunteering or internships can also give you a better understanding of the field. Your success in admissions and your career will mostly depend on the quality of your portfolio and how much you improve, not your choice of subjects.
Thank you so much!
Shreeya
✨ Danuta Chapin, MFA
Designer and Art Director
21
Answers
Arlington Heights, Illinois
Updated
✨ Danuta’s Answer
Hello Shreeya,
Definitely yes — it's important to follow your interests. Everyone is different, and whatever path you choose will naturally evolve: with your studies, with changing job demands, and with any side projects you explore.
For example, I studied Industrial Design with an interest in Fashion. I never changed my major (I changed the university), and honestly, I wish I had. My daughter changed her major three times, and now she’s very happy with where she ended up.
It’s helpful to work closely with your school counselor — they can guide you through class selection and help you understand your options. Will it be easy? I hope so, but “easy” isn’t always the most meaningful path. No matter what you choose, you’ll still need to study hard and stay committed.
In addition, take extra classes in interests you'd like to explore; whatever you learn is yours to keep!
Wishing you the best of luck and happiness on your path!
Definitely yes — it's important to follow your interests. Everyone is different, and whatever path you choose will naturally evolve: with your studies, with changing job demands, and with any side projects you explore.
For example, I studied Industrial Design with an interest in Fashion. I never changed my major (I changed the university), and honestly, I wish I had. My daughter changed her major three times, and now she’s very happy with where she ended up.
It’s helpful to work closely with your school counselor — they can guide you through class selection and help you understand your options. Will it be easy? I hope so, but “easy” isn’t always the most meaningful path. No matter what you choose, you’ll still need to study hard and stay committed.
In addition, take extra classes in interests you'd like to explore; whatever you learn is yours to keep!
Wishing you the best of luck and happiness on your path!
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Shreeya