see State Job Trends
for regional occupational outlook information
Industrial Designer Training and Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree is required for most entry-level commercial and
industrial design positions. Many designers also pursue a master’s degree to
increase their employment opportunities.
Education and training. A bachelor’s degree in industrial
design, architecture, or engineering is required for most entry-level commercial
and industrial design jobs. Coursework includes principles of design, sketching,
computer-aided design, industrial materials and processes, manufacturing
methods, and some classes in engineering, physical science, mathematics,
psychology, and anthropology. Many programs also include internships at design
or manufacturing firms.
Many aspiring commercial and industrial designers earn a master’s degree in
industrial design. Some already have a bachelor’s degree in the field, but an
increasing number have degrees and experience in other areas, such as marketing,
information technology, or engineering, and are hoping to transfer into a design
occupation.
Also, because of the growing emphasis on strategic design and how products
fit into a firm’s overall business plan, an increasing number of designers are
pursing a master’s degree in business administration to gain business skills.
The National Association of Schools of Art and Design accredits approximately
250 postsecondary colleges, universities, and private institutes with programs
in art and design. About 45 of these schools award a degree in industrial
design; some offer a bachelor’s of art, some a bachelor’s of science. Many
schools require the successful completion of 1 year of basic art and design
courses before entry into a bachelor’s degree program. Applicants also may be
required to submit sketches and other examples of their artistic ability.
Other qualifications. Creativity and technical knowledge are
crucial in this occupation. People in this field must have a strong sense of the
esthetic—an eye for color and detail and a sense of balance and proportion.
Despite the advancement of computer-aided design, sketching ability remains an
important advantage. Designers must also understand the technical aspects of how
products function. Most employers also expect new designers to know
computer-aided design software. The deciding factor in getting a job often is a
good portfolio—examples of a person’s best work.
Designers must also be imaginative and persistent and must be able to
communicate their ideas visually, verbally, and in writing. Because tastes and
styles can change quickly, designers need to be well read, open to new ideas and
influences, and quick to react to changing trends. Problem-solving skills and
the ability to work independently and under pressure also are important traits.
People in this field need self-discipline to start projects on their own, to
budget their time, and to meet deadlines and production schedules.
As strategic design becomes more important, employers will seek designers
with project management skills and knowledge of accounting, marketing, quality
assurance, purchasing, and strategic planning. Good business sense and sales
ability are important, especially for those who freelance or run their own
business.
Advancement. Beginning commercial and industrial designers
usually receive on-the-job training and normally need 1 to 3 years of training
before they can advance to higher level positions. Experienced designers in
large firms may advance to chief designer, design department head, or other
supervisory positions. Some designers leave the occupation to become teachers in
design schools or in colleges and universities. Many faculty members continue to
consult privately or operate small design studios to complement their classroom
activities. Some experienced designers open their own design firms
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor,
Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition
Find related resources below:
Industrial Designer Job
Outlook Industrial Designer Income
|