Industrial Design Programs in Aurora, Illinois

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Aurora, Illinois

Pursuing an Industrial Design degree involves understanding the fundamentals of design thinking, product innovation, and human-centered design. Prospective students can choose from various education paths, including Bachelor of Design (BDes) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs, each offering unique specializations and practical experiences. This guide provides an overview of the available Industrial Design programs, prerequisites, and career opportunities for aspiring designers in Aurora, Illinois.

About Aurora, Illinois

Aurora is the second-largest city in Illinois and offers a rich mix of cultural heritage and modern amenities. The city is known for its historic architecture, scenic riverfront, and numerous parks that enhance its community-focused environment. For more detailed local information, visit the official Aurora City website. Local landmarks include the Paramount Theatre and the Aurora Historical Society museums.

Industrial Design Programs in Aurora, Illinois

Aurora does not currently host specific Industrial Design programs; however, nearby institutions provide excellent accredited courses accessible to Aurora residents.

  • University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) – Near West Side, Chicago, IL

    • Address: 705 S. Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60607
    • Program: Bachelor of Design (BDes) in Industrial Design, with a focus on sustainability and human-centered design.
    • Details: UIC’s program includes core courses such as “Human Experience in Design” (DES 222) and “Materials and Methods” (DES 326), and requires a senior thesis project (DES 470).
    • Website: UIC School of Design
    • Distance: Approximately 40 miles from Aurora.

  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) – Urbana/Champaign, IL

    • Address: 1409 W. Green St, Champaign, IL 61820
    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Industrial Design, emphasizing computer-aided design and product innovation with courses like “Product Innovation” (ARTD 426) and “Professional Design Practice” (ARTD 448).
    • Website: UIUC Industrial Design Program
    • Distance: Approximately 85 miles from Aurora.

  • DePaul University – The Loop, Chicago, IL

    • Address: 222 W. Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60606
    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Industrial Design, which integrates graphic and experience design with technical prototyping supported by makerspaces (IRL and IRL2).
    • Website: DePaul Industrial Design Program
    • Distance: Approximately 40 miles from Aurora.

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Aurora, Illinois

Aurora’s diverse economy offers opportunities with local manufacturing and design-oriented companies. While specialized industrial design firms may be limited in Aurora, many aspiring designers can explore career opportunities in nearby Chicago neighborhoods such as the West Loop, Lincoln Park, and the Loop. Companies in these areas include established design agencies and major manufacturing corporations. For more detailed job outlook information, review the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page for Industrial Designers.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Applicants to Industrial Design programs typically need to meet several prerequisites:

  • Portfolio Submission: Required by UIUC and DePaul programs to demonstrate design skills.
  • Academic Requirements: Varying GPA criteria; for example, UIUC requires a minimum 2.75 GPA for transfer students.
  • Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT scores are optional for UIC and UIUC.
  • Additional Requirements: Minimum age standards, and in some cases, entrance exams or interviews may be part of the selection process.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Illinois

Illinois does not impose specific state-wide degree requirements for Industrial Design; however, each program adheres to national accreditation standards set by bodies such as the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Industry-specific regulatory and oversight agencies include:

  • Aurora City Government – Oversees local education initiatives.

  • Kane County Regional Office of Education – Manages county-level educational policies.

  • Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) – Regulates and accredits higher education programs in Illinois.

    • Website: IBHE
    • Contact: (217) 557-7359

  • U.S. Department of Education – Oversees national education policies and funding along with the National Center for Education Statistics.

Professional Certification Options

Professional certification options for Industrial Designers include those provided by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA). Certification through IDSA offers benefits such as:

  • Enhanced networking opportunities.
  • Access to workshops and design competitions.
  • Validation of professional expertise and adherence to industry standards.

For more information on certification and membership benefits, visit the IDSA website.

Get Started Today

Aurora residents interested in pursuing an Industrial Design degree have access to excellent educational resources and career opportunities in nearby institutions. With rigorous academic programs, clear admission prerequisites, and supportive regulatory bodies, aspiring designers are well-equipped to embark on this fulfilling career. Students are encouraged to contact their preferred schools through the provided forms on each institution’s website to learn more about available courses and begin their application process.