Industrial Design Programs in Atlanta, Georgia

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Atlanta, Georgia

Industrial Design is a multifaceted discipline that blends creativity with technical expertise to develop innovative products and systems. An Industrial Design degree opens paths in areas such as product design, UX/UI design, and sustainable design. Prospective students can choose from diverse education paths including Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Science (BS), and advanced Master’s or Doctoral programs. This guide explains the process of earning an Industrial Design degree in Atlanta, Georgia, while outlining programs, prerequisites, career opportunities, and state-specific degree requirements.

About Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia is a dynamic metropolitan hub known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse neighborhoods, and significant landmarks such as Centennial Olympic Park and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. The official website for Atlanta provides a comprehensive overview of city initiatives and resources: Atlanta Government.

Industrial Design Programs in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta offers several top-notch Industrial Design programs. Below are three schools that present strong options for students dedicated to a career in Industrial Design.

  • Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD Atlanta)

    • Program Details: Offers both Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Industrial Design. The curriculum features courses such as DRAW 100 (Drawing I), DSGN 100 (Design I), and IDUS 471 (Senior Studio I), with tracks in Rapid Prototyping and Sustainable Design.
    • Admissions: Requires portfolio submission, SAT/ACT scores, and a minimum GPA of 3.0.
    • Location & Address: Located in Midtown Atlanta; please refer to the official website for the most current campus address.
    • Website: SCAD Atlanta

  • Georgia Institute of Technology

    • Program Details: Provides a BS in Industrial Design focusing on technical design skills and an MS program emphasizing advanced design research and management. Courses include ID 1011 (Industrial Design Fundamentals) and ID 2101 (Digital Design Methods) with specializations in Human Factors and Manufacturing.
    • Admissions: Requires SAT/ACT scores, prerequisite courses in math and science, and a minimum GPA of 3.0 for undergraduate programs; GRE scores are optional for the MS program.
    • Location & Address: Situated in Midtown Atlanta, at 800 Techwood Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30332.
    • Website: Georgia Tech

  • Kennesaw State University (Nearest Option)

    • Program Details: Though not located directly in Atlanta, Kennesaw State University, approximately 25 miles away, offers design-related courses that prepare students for careers in industrial and product design.
    • Admissions & Additional Info: Prospective students should inquire directly about specific Industrial Design-related courses and programs.
    • Location & Address: Located in Kennesaw, GA at 1000 Chastain Road NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144 (approximately 25 miles from Atlanta).
    • Website: Kennesaw State University

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta’s thriving economy hosts several major design firms, manufacturing companies, and brands that actively seek Industrial Designers. Some notable employers include:

  • Cox Enterprises

    • Overview: A leading communications and automotive services company offering diverse roles for industrial design professionals.
    • Location: Typically based in central Atlanta; check the company’s employment page for detailed location information.
    • Website: Cox Enterprises

  • Delta Air Lines

    • Overview: Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta Air Lines employs Industrial Designers to work on innovative product and service design projects that enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
    • Location: Located in the Airport neighborhood at 1030 Delta Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30354.
    • Website: Delta Air Lines

  • The Home Depot

    • Overview: This major home improvement retailer hires Industrial Designers to improve product functionality and customer engagement.
    • Location: Headquartered in Buckhead at 2455 Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30339.
    • Website: The Home Depot

Additional industry insights and job outlook information can be found on the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Industrial Designers: BLS Job Outlook for Industrial Designers.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Students interested in Industrial Design generally need to meet several prerequisites before admission:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent (minimum age requirement as per institution policies).
  • Portfolio submission showcasing creative and technical abilities.
  • Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) for undergraduate admissions.
  • A minimum GPA (commonly 3.0) and prerequisite courses in math and science, especially for programs like Georgia Tech.
  • For graduate programs, letters of recommendation and, in some cases, GRE scores (optional for Georgia Tech’s MS program).

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Georgia

In Atlanta and across Georgia, Industrial Design degrees adhere to rigorous academic and accreditation standards:

  • Types of Degrees Available:
    • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Offered at SCAD Atlanta with 35 hours of foundation studies, 55 hours of general education, and 80 hours of major curriculum.
    • Bachelor of Science (BS): Offered at Georgia Tech with a focus on technical and design skills.
    • Master’s Programs: Georgia Tech offers an MS in Industrial Design emphasizing advanced research and design management.
  • Accreditation: Programs are often accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD); check the NASAD accreditation directory for verification.
  • Regulatory Bodies:
    • Georgia Higher Education Commission (GHEC) oversees higher education policies, program funding, and approval in Georgia. Visit GHEC or call (404) 962-3500 for more details.
    • Local Educational Agencies: Although Atlanta Public Schools (Atlanta Public Schools, (404) 802-3500) and Fulton County Schools (Fulton County Schools, (470) 254-3600) primarily manage K-12 education, they contribute to the overall educational ecosystem.

For broader program data and U.S. educational statistics, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and its College Navigator tool are useful resources.

Professional Certification Options

Industrial Designers can enhance their credentials through professional certifications. The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) offers certifications that strengthen professional standing, provide access to job boards, design competitions, and continuing education opportunities. Learn more about benefits and certification options at the IDSA website.

Get Started Today

Atlanta offers a comprehensive environment for aspiring Industrial Designers with top-tier schools, numerous career opportunities, and robust state and federal support. Candidates are encouraged to explore these programs in greater detail and contact their chosen schools using the inquiry forms available on each institution’s website. Begin your journey toward an Industrial Design degree and take the first step toward a rewarding and innovative career.