Industrial Design Programs in Chicago, Illinois

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Chicago, Illinois

Pursuing an Industrial Design degree in Chicago, Illinois, offers a comprehensive blend of theory and hands-on practice in one of the country’s most dynamic creative fields. Industrial Design focuses on creating products and systems that are both functional and aesthetically compelling. Prospective students can choose from various education paths, including undergraduate degrees like the Bachelor of Design (BDes) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) as well as graduate degrees such as the Master of Design (MDes).

For detailed employment projections in Industrial Design, refer to the Industrial Designers Job Outlook.

About Chicago

Chicago, Illinois, is a major cultural and educational hub that provides a rich backdrop for creative studies. The city is known for its impressive architecture, world-renowned museums, and popular landmarks like Millennium Park. For more comprehensive city information, visit the Chicago official website. Neighborhoods such as the Loop and Near West Side host many of the city’s educational institutions and creative enterprises.

Industrial Design Programs in Chicago, Illinois

Several prestigious schools in Chicago offer Industrial Design programs and courses. The following institutions provide a range of options for those seeking an Industrial Design degree:

  • University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) School of Design
    Address: 1200 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607 (Near West Side)
    UIC offers both BDes and MDes programs, featuring courses such as Industrial Design Thesis I/II and Design Research Methods. The program emphasizes a human-centered approach and includes options for a Professional Practice Track or Interdisciplinary Product Development. Visit the UIC School of Design page for more details.

  • The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)
    Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603 (The Loop)
    SAIC provides comprehensive art and design education, including related industrial design courses. Its interdisciplinary approach encourages innovative problem solving and creative development. Learn more at the SAIC official website.

  • Columbia College Chicago
    Address: 600 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605 (The Loop)
    Known for its cutting-edge curriculum, Columbia College Chicago integrates design principles with practical studio work. Their programs are designed to prepare students for the evolving challenges in product and industrial design. More information is available on the Columbia College Chicago website.

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Chicago

Chicago hosts numerous design firms and manufacturing companies that value Industrial Design expertise. Notable employers in the area include:

  • Motorola Solutions
    Location: Based in Chicago’s downtown area (specific address details available upon inquiry)
    Motorola Solutions is known for its innovative technology and design-driven products. Visit the Motorola Solutions careers page for current opportunities.

  • Perkins+Will
    Address: 300 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601 (The Loop)
    A leader in design and architecture, Perkins+Will offers excellent career prospects for Industrial Designers. Explore their offerings on the Perkins+Will Careers page.

For additional job market insights, see the Industrial Designers Job Outlook on BLS.gov.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Prospective students in Industrial Design should prepare by meeting certain prerequisites common to most programs:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Portfolio Submission: Undergraduate programs, such as the BFA, typically require a portfolio review, with a minimum GPA of 2.5. In contrast, the BDes program may not require a portfolio, relying instead on foundational courses in design principles.
  • Entrance Exams and Interviews: Some programs, particularly at the graduate level (MDes), may require interviews or standardized test scores (with GRE scores being optional).

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Illinois

Industrial Design degree requirements in Illinois are overseen by a network of regulatory bodies, ensuring robust academic standards across the state.

  • City-Level Oversight:

    • Chicago Department of Education
      • Oversees K-12 education and supports post-secondary initiatives.
      • Website | Contact: (312) 746-6000

  • County-Level Oversight:

    • Cook County Department of Education
      • Coordinates regional educational programs and workforce development.
      • Portal | Contact: (312) 603-6400

  • State-Level Oversight:

    • Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE)
      • Governs state-wide higher education policies and approves degree programs.
      • Website | Contact: (217) 557-7359

  • Federal Oversight:

State-Specific Degree Information

Illinois offers several degree options in Industrial Design:

  • Bachelor of Design (BDes): Offered by UIC School of Design with a 132-hour program focusing on human-centered design.
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Provided by UIUC School of Art & Design, emphasizing product innovation with a 122-hour curriculum.
  • Master of Design (MDes): UIC’s two-year program includes options for international travel and requires a thesis component.

Curriculum and Accreditation Details

  • Core Courses:
    • For the UIC BDes program: Courses such as Industrial Design Thesis I/II and Design Research Methods are key components.
    • For the UIUC BFA program: Courses include Sustainability & Manufacturing and Human-Centered Product Design.
  • Specializations:
    • UIC offers tracks in Professional Practice or Interdisciplinary Product Development.
    • UIUC focuses on materials, user experience, and market demand.
  • Accreditation: Programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Verify program accreditation via the NASAD website.

Professional Certification Options

Industrial Designers can enhance their credentials through professional certifications. The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) provides advocacy, networking opportunities, and professional development resources. For more information on certification benefits and application processes, visit the IDSA official website.

Get Started Today

With a wealth of educational opportunities, robust industry standards, and extensive career prospects, Chicago is an excellent place to begin your journey in Industrial Design. Prospective students are encouraged to explore programs further and contact schools directly through the forms on their respective pages to learn more about the next steps in advancing their design education.