Design Products
A foundational understanding of how products can be made to work better for people; what makes a product useful, usable, and desirable.
A foundational understanding of how products are manufactured, assembled and materials used.
A understanding of how ideas can be presented using state-of-the-art tools.
Technology
Knowledge of computer-aided design in developing 3D geometry and appropriate 2D image development and communication software.
Design History
Understanding of the history of industrial design.
Basic Business Practices
Functional knowledge of basic business and professional practice.
Structured Creativity and Design Thinking
The ability to investigate and synthesize the needs of marketing, sales, engineering, manufacturing, servicing, and ecological responsibility and to reconcile these needs with those of the user in terms of satisfaction, value, aesthetics, and safety. To do this, industrial designers must be able to define problems, variables and requirements; conceptualize and evaluate alternative; and test and refine solutions.
Communicate Ideas
The ability to communicate concepts and requirements to other designers and colleagues who work with them; to clients and employers; and to prospective clients and employers. This need to communicate draws upon verbal and written forms, two-dimensional and three-dimensional media, and levels of detailing ranging from sketch or abstract to detailed and specific.
Human Connection
Studies related to end-user psychology, human factors and user interface.
A Deeper Understanding
Opportunities for advanced undergraduate study in areas which intensify skills and concepts already developed, and which broaden knowledge of the profession of industrial design. Studies might be drawn from such areas as engineering, business, the practice and history of visual art and design, and technology, or interdisciplinary programs related to industrial design.
Available Resources
Easy access to computer facilities; woodworking, metalworking, and plastics laboratories; libraries with relevant industrial design materials; and appropriate other work facilities related to the major.
Experience
Opportunities for internships, collaborative programs, and other field experiences with industry groups.
Team Projects
Participation in multidisciplinary team projects.
