College 3 by 5: Programs in Product Design

Saturday, November 22, 2014

Emily Standish, GoLocalPDX College Admission Coach

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University programs in Product Design – also referred to as Industrial Design – train students to become professionals who bring ideas to life. Industrial designers are part artist, part entrepreneur and part engineer, trained in multidisciplinary programs where students design products that benefit consumers, industry, and business; create designs for medical and computer applications, transportation and environmental projects. The iPod, the Volkswagen Beetle, the Eames Lounge Chair, the slinky dog, the Electrolux vacuum cleaner. All of these iconic designs were once just ideas being tossed around in design incubators. Here are five undergraduate programs for future Product Design professionals:

Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ

The goal of ASU’s Integrated Innovation curriculum for Industrial Design students is to produce design solutions that have value in the marketplace, meet consumer need, and benefit society and the environment.
Senior-level students may collaborate for two semesters with students across disciplines in ASU’s InnovationSpace to research, design and develop a product for real-world use.
By the numbers: 80% overall acceptance rate. SAT Mid-ranges: CR 500-620, M 520-650; ACT Mid-range 22-28.

Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA

Drexel’s Bachelor of Science in Product Design is strongest in hands-on learning that encourages experimentation.
Product Design majors can take advantage of Drexel’s Cooperative Education programs, working in paid positions in business and industry relating to the major.
By the numbers: 75% overall acceptance rate. SAT Mid-ranges: CR 540-640, M 580-680; ACT Mid-range: 24-29.

Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA

All students in the School of Architecture take a common first year core of design classes before compiling a portfolio that will be used to apply into the School of Industrial Design.
Industrial Design students research and develop innovative solutions to mobility and functional limitations as part of the Center for Assistive Technology and Environmental Access, a collaboration between ID, engineering, computer science, and public policy students.
By the numbers: 41% overall acceptance rate. SAT Mid-ranges: CR 620-710, M 670-770; ACT Mid-range 29-33.

Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN

Industrial Design students enjoy a cohort of about 100 students in the major, housed within the School of Visual and Performing Arts/Department of Art & Design, with a dedicated lab that includes 3D printers for student use.
An art portfolio is not required to begin the degree, but is required to continue to upper level courses, which include corporate-sponsored projects for real-world applications
By the numbers: 60% overall acceptance rate. SAT Mid-ranges: CR 520-630, M 560-690; ACT Mid-range: 24-30.

Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA

WWU’s Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design is housed in the Department of Engineering Technology and conferred on only 12 graduates per year.
Application into the pre-major in Industrial Design requires an entrance portfolio review followed by a sophomore review to progress to upper level courses.
By the numbers: 84% overall acceptance rate. SAT Mid-ranges: CR 490-620, M 500-600; ACT Mid-range: 22-28.

Other colleges and universities with accredited Industrial Design programs are Carnegie Mellon University, Emily Carr University of Art and Design, Metropolitan State University of Denver, University of Oregon, Rhode Island School of Design, San Francisco State University, and University of Washington. A complete list of accredited programs in Industrial Design can be found on the website of the National Association of Schools of Art & Design.

Emily Standish is a partner in Portland, Oregon-based College Admission Coach LLC which helps students identify and gain admission to right-fit schools where they will thrive academically and personally. Contact me at [email protected].

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