Our industrial design specialization is a unique blend of art and science. In this program you will receive the training and skills to design and develop innovative products that improve the lives of people in a changing, global society.
With a focus on real world design, faculty and students have collaborated on everything from interior graphics to package delivery systems, headphone packaging and athletic shoe concepts.
Industrial design students are encouraged to take courses the communication design specialization. This powerful dual-specialization approach affords our graduates enhanced career options, offers employers greater value and taps into the widening trend of design being a strategic force for global companies of all types and sizes.
The industrial design curriculum offers a blend of interdisciplinary study and focused coursework. The professional program offers a flexible structure designed to meet your individual needs.
Students enrolled in the industrial design curriculum must complete a portfolio assessment after completing their foundation courses and first semester industrial design coursework: AD213 ID Material & Processes and AD223 Rendering and Graphics.
It is recommended that students enrolled in the industrial design specialization purchase the required computer hardware and software as soon as possible. All students must have the required computer hardware and software for the 300- and 400-level industrial design courses.
Careers
Graduates of our industrial design program are prepared for a wide variety of careers, ranging from product designer to art director.
Our strong connection with industry partners and alumni gives you many opportunities as you launch into your professional life.
Common careers include: 3D CAD Modeler and prototype; Creative director; Design director; Digital imaging specialist; Footwear designer; Furniture designer; Industrial Design engineer; Industrial design researcher; Industrial designer; Interactive graphic designer; Package and Point of Purchase designer; Product designer; Research Engineer; Service Designer; Softgoods Designer; Toy Designer; User Experience designer.
September 2025
College of Liberal Arts
Southern Illinois University,
CARBONDALE,
Illinois,
62901, United States
Students need to have Transcripts from high school and/or college. At SIU Carbondale, applicants for admission will be eligible for automatic admission if they are on track to complete our course pattern requirements and who meet one of the following criteria: A cumulative high school GPA of 2.75; A ranking in the top 10% of their graduating class.
English Language Requirement: Any one of the following methods will automatically meet the minimum English requirement. Applicants who do not meet the automatic English language admission requirement will undergo a holistic review to determine potential admissibility.
TOEFL (IBT internet-based test) - 68
TOEFL (paper based test) - 520
ITEP - 4.0 (academic plus only)
IELTS - 6.0
2 Face-to-face English composition classes taken in the U.S. at the college level with a grade of A or B
More than 48 college-level credit hours completed at a U.S. institution
If an applicant is from a country whose primary language is English
Graduation from a U.S. high school having spent the final 2 years in the U.S.
Meeting the SAT or ACT requirements for admission of domestic freshmen
Duolingo English Test (accepted during COVID-19 closures)- 95
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
