Industrial Design Programs in Cary, North Carolina

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Cary, North Carolina

Industrial Design is a field that merges creativity with technical expertise to develop user-centered products and systems. Educational pathways include Bachelor of Industrial Design (BID), Master of Industrial Design (MID), and specialized certificate courses. Prospective students exploring an Industrial Design degree in Cary, North Carolina, will find that multiple options exist, especially in nearby Raleigh, where NC State University offers an accredited program. For further career insights, visit the Industrial Designers job outlook.

About Cary

Cary, North Carolina, is a well-established town in Wake County known for its quality of life and modern infrastructure. Residents enjoy a rich array of neighborhoods and local landmarks. For official town information and community events, visit the Town of Cary website. Cary’s proximity to Raleigh enhances access to higher education and design opportunities.

Industrial Design Programs in Cary, North Carolina

Cary does not host specific Industrial Design programs; however, the nearby Raleigh area provides access to several quality institutions. Below is a list of three local schools offering Industrial Design programs or related courses:

  1. NC State University

    • Program: Bachelor and Master of Industrial Design
    • Address: 2101 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607 (Downtown Raleigh area)
    • Description: NC State University’s industrial design program is renowned for its studio-based learning, focus on user-centered design, and emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Prospective students should consider portfolio submission, with an average SAT score of 1370 for undergraduates and GRE scores for graduates required by the program.
    • Website: NC State Industrial Design Program

  2. Wake Technical Community College

    • Program: Courses and certificates in design fundamentals
    • Address: 1701 E Market St, Raleigh, NC 27605 (Located in Raleigh University area)
    • Description: Offering a range of courses that cover the basics of design, this institution provides foundational education for those aspiring to enter Industrial Design. It serves as a stepping stone for students aiming to pursue advanced degrees.
    • Website: Wake Technical Community College
    • Distance: Approximately 12 miles from Cary

  3. Durham Technical Community College

    • Program: Continuing education and design courses
    • Address: 201 E Main St, Durham, NC 27701 (Downtown Durham)
    • Description: Durham Technical offers continuing education opportunities in design, making it a viable option for individuals seeking supplementary courses in Industrial Design fields.
    • Website: Durham Technical Community College
    • Distance: About 30 miles from Cary

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Cary

Cary is home to major employers and innovative companies that value design expertise. Key local design and technology firms include:

  • SAS Institute

    • Description: A leader in analytics and software solutions, SAS Institute fosters a creative environment where Industrial Design skills are essential for product development and user experience improvement.
    • Address: 100 SAS Campus Drive, Cary, NC 27513 (Central Cary)
    • Website: SAS Institute

  • Epic Games

    • Description: Known for its cutting-edge technology and creative game design, Epic Games offers opportunities that benefit from Industrial Design principles.
    • Address: Located in Cary’s corporate corridor (exact address available on inquiry)
    • Website: Epic Games

These organizations not only drive local innovation but also offer employment opportunities that align with the skills developed in Industrial Design programs.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in an Industrial Design program include:

  • Undergraduate Requirements:
    • A strong foundation in high school mathematics and art
    • Portfolio submission showcasing creative and technical skills
    • Competitive SAT scores (around 1370 for institutions such as NC State University)
  • Graduate Requirements:
    • GRE scores (requirements vary by institution)
    • A detailed portfolio emphasizing professional experience and advanced design projects
  • Entrance interviews may also form part of the admission process.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in North Carolina

In North Carolina, Industrial Design degree programs adhere to both state and national standards. Key details include:

  • Types of Degrees Available:

    • Bachelor of Industrial Design (BID) programs at institutions like NC State University
    • Master of Industrial Design (MID) for advanced studies
    • Specializations in product design, human-computer interaction, medical devices, and transportation design

  • Admission Requirements:

    • Undergraduates are expected to submit strong SAT scores (NC State University averages around 1370), along with a carefully curated portfolio.
    • Graduate applicants must provide GRE scores and demonstrate professional competence through portfolio reviews.

  • Curriculum Requirements:

    • Core courses include digital techniques (ID 110, 210, 310), human-centered design (ID 240), and various studio-based projects (ID 102, 201, 301)
    • An internship component is required to emphasize practical, real-world experience

  • Accreditation:

Local regulatory bodies and resources include:

Professional Certification Options

Professional certification can enhance career prospects and validate skills in Industrial Design. The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) provides certification and numerous networking opportunities, job listings, and design competitions. For more information on certification benefits and the application process, visit the IDSA website.

Get Started Today

The journey towards earning an Industrial Design degree in Cary, North Carolina, is filled with enriching academic and career opportunities. With quality programs available in nearby Raleigh and additional courses in Durham, aspiring designers have several pathways to success. Contact a school today through the provided forms to begin your enrollment process and embark on a fulfilling career in Industrial Design.