Industrial Design Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in St. Louis, Missouri

Industrial Design is a field that blends creativity, technical prowess, and practical problem-solving skills. An Industrial Design degree prepares students to create functional and aesthetically appealing products by combining art, science, and engineering. Education paths vary from Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) to Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees, offering both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience through specialized courses and studio work.

About St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis is a dynamic city known for its rich history, renowned landmarks like the Gateway Arch, and diverse cultural neighborhoods such as the Central West End and Soulard. Prospective students and creative professionals will find a supportive academic community alongside a wide range of artistic and manufacturing industries. For more city details, visit the official St. Louis website.

Industrial Design Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis and its surrounding areas offer a variety of Industrial Design programs that blend technical coursework with creative design concepts. Below are three notable institutions:

  • Washington University in St. Louis

    • Program: Engineering degrees with design-related specializations
    • Address: One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, located in the Central West End neighborhood
    • Description: Known for high research output and interdisciplinary collaborations, Washington University provides a rigorous academic environment where design is integrated into engineering principles.
    • Website: Washington University in St. Louis

  • Missouri University of Science and Technology

    • Program: Engineering degrees with interdisciplinary design opportunities
    • Address: One University Blvd, Rolla, MO 65401, Rolla is approximately 80 miles from St. Louis
    • Description: This institution is recognized for its strong emphasis on engineering combined with design coursework, preparing students for roles such as Design Engineer and Product Designer.
    • Website: Missouri University of Science and Technology

  • Southern Illinois University

    • Program: Industrial Design (BFA) offered through real-world design projects
    • Address: 6301 N University St, Carbondale, IL 62901; Carbondale is approximately 100 miles from St. Louis
    • Description: Southern Illinois University’s program is focused on practical design applications and portfolio development, which is essential for a career in Industrial Design.
    • Website: Southern Illinois University Industrial Design Program

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in St. Louis

St. Louis is home to several leading design firms, manufacturing companies, and corporations that offer rewarding career opportunities for Industrial Designers. Here are a few prominent employers:

  • Anheuser-Busch InBev

    • Description: A global leader in beverage production with a strong design and manufacturing presence in St. Louis. The company is known for its continuous innovation in product packaging and design.
    • Website: Anheuser-Busch InBev

  • Boeing

    • Description: With manufacturing and design operations in the St. Louis area, Boeing offers careers that involve advanced design and engineering for aerospace and related industries.
    • Website: Boeing

  • Emerson Electric

    • Description: Recognized for its technology and engineering solutions, Emerson Electric provides Industrial Designers with opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects in product design.
    • Website: Emerson Electric

For further information on career outlooks, please review the Industrial Designers job outlook on BLS.gov.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Enrollment in Industrial Design programs typically involves several prerequisites:

  • Educational Background: Completion of core art, design, and mathematics courses during secondary education.
  • Portfolio Submission: Most programs require a portfolio that demonstrates your creative projects and design capabilities.
  • Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores may be required, though requirements vary by institution.
  • Entrance Exams/Interviews: Some schools may conduct interviews or additional assessments to evaluate design aptitude.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Missouri

Missouri offers several degree types for Industrial Design, including:

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Industrial Design
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Manufacturing Engineering Technology with Design & Technical Graphics
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Engineering with design-related specializations

Admission and Curriculum Details

  • Portfolio Submission: A critical component of the application process, with programs (such as SIU’s Industrial Design track) evaluating foundational coursework.
  • Standardized Tests: Scores are considered according to institution-specific requirements (e.g., Washington University in St. Louis requires competitive SAT/ACT scores).
  • Core Courses:
    • Material & Processes (e.g., AD213)
    • Computer-Aided Drafting (e.g., EGT 205)
    • 3D Modeling (e.g., EGT 345)

Regulatory Bodies and Accreditation

Local regulatory and accrediting agencies include:

Professional Certification Options

Industrial Designers can enhance their credentials by obtaining professional certifications. One notable organization is the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), which focuses on promoting education, professional networking, and innovation in design. Certification can bolster a portfolio, provide professional recognition, and open doors to exclusive career opportunities. Contact industry organizations directly to learn more about local chapters and certification processes.

Get Started Today

St. Louis offers a range of opportunities for aspiring Industrial Designers—from engaging academic programs to thriving career prospects in leading design and manufacturing companies. With comprehensive programs, state and local educational support, and a network of professional organizations, pursuing an Industrial Design degree in St. Louis is a promising path to a creative and impactful career. Prospective students are encouraged to contact a school directly through the forms on their respective pages to begin their journey.