How to Become an Industrial Designer

Overview & Salaries

Recommended Degree:
The right degree for you depends on the industry and company you apply for. Those looking for an entry positions will likely need at least a bachelors degree in industrial of commercial design. It is also recommended you have a portfolio put together of your best design examples for employers or customers to see. If you are looking to get into a competitive or advance position, then a master’s degree can help you stand out in the hiring process.

Begin your career path today by signing up for free information from one of our accredited colleges below that offer programs to help get you started as a industrial designer.

Much Does a Industrial Designer Make?:
$59,610 (national median salary, to view salaries in your state click on the “Best Places to Work” tab up top)

Expected Growth from 2012-2020:
+1,700 additional people employed

(all information above provided by the 2012 BLS Industrial Designer page)

The Best Places to Work

According to the Industrial Designers Society of America, these are the best places to work as an industrial designer.

  • Arizona
  • Detroit
  • Seattle
  • Sarasota
  • San Francisco

Employment and Information Data for Industrial Design

Why Become a Industrial Designer?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage of industrial designers is $58,230 and is a growing position. If you enjoy using your artistic creativity to improve the aesthetics, functionality and overall usability of products, then you’ve come to the right page. That is precisely what takes place in an Industrial Design career.

Recommended Courses to Help You Become a Industrial Designer

  • Computer Drafting
  • Design Drawing
  • Design Problem Solving
  • Digital 3D Modeling
  • Digital Imaging
  • Digital Solid Modeling
  • Digital Transportation Design
  • Digital Transportation Modeling
  • Form Development
  • Furniture Design
  • History of Industrial Design
  • Materials and Processes

Degree Options for Becoming an Industrial Designer

The industrial design space provides students  the ability to determine the form of a manufactured product, shaping it to fit the people who use it and the industrial processes that produce it.

Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in industrial design provides a wide array of study options including a focus on furniture, appliances, transportation, tools, farm equipment, medical instruments, electronics, human-computer interfaces, and even recreational support equipment.

Master’s Degree
This more advanced degree offers student to further study the history, theory and applications of industrial design. Much like the bachelor’s degree, the master’s degree in industrial design provides a wide array of study options including a focus on furniture, appliances, transportation, tools, farm equipment, medical instruments, electronics, human-computer interfaces, and even recreational support equipment.