Industrial Design Schools

Industrial Design School

Wikipedia describes industrial design as a “combination of applied art and applied science.” Industrial design is also known as commercial design and product design. Industrial design schools are not only about function, but also form. Is the product functional, comfortable to use, and pleasing to the eye? Industrial designers may design furniture, appliances, or even automobiles. Employment within the industry is limitless.

Requirements vary from to school to school, but a high school diploma or GED is the minimum for admission. Some more exclusive schools will want a portfolio or extracurricular achievements in addition to academic credentials. You can choose from four-year universities, two-year trade schools, or online colleges you can attend part-time.

Tuition, housing, meals, transportation, textbooks and design supplies add to the cost.

You can expect to spend up to $46,000 per year for a bachelor of Industrial Design degree at a four-year private school. State universities’ BS degree will cost around $9500 per year and a two-year trade school runs about $21,600 per year for an Associates degree.

Courses required are core art and design classes as well as basic academics. There will also be specialized major classes on the specifics of industrial design, including mechanical and engineering orienting classes.

When choosing an industrial design school, cost, distance from home, expenses and atmosphere should be considered. It’s also wise to choose a school with a good internship and placement program. Check out the school’s reputation and talk with graduates and students already attending to make sure it is the right match for your goals.

One you have graduated, you can find a job many areas of design. Product design, drafting, environmental design, automotive design, and furniture design, to name a few.

It is a highly competitive field and a high paying one. A degree from an industrial design school will go a long towards setting you on your way to an exciting and rewarding career.