Industrial Design

The study of Industrial Design (ID) at NC State University is a four-year (eight-semester) program that wards a professional Bachelor of Industrial Design (BID) degree after the fulfillment of all academic requirements.

In the first semester of freshman year, Industrial Design students learn the basic principles of design, design processes, design vocabulary, and disciplined work habits in mixed studio and lecture classes with all other majors in the College of Design. The second semester of freshman year is an Industrial Design major-specific mix of studio and lecture classes for the students continue their education in the design of physical artifacts in the natural and built environment. This first year design curriculum establishes a solid foundation for the creative, generative, and evaluative phases of design that are common to all design practices.

In the fall semester of sophomore year, Industrial Design students begin a studio sequence of practical project-based learning, similar to a professional design office, as well as exposure to more advanced theories and principles of design. The students learn the critical methodologies and skills specific to industrial design as they compile their projects and processes into a portfolio of work relevant to their career. Opportunities are provided for students to participate in collaborative studio projects with industry partners in order to conduct user-based research and engage in the design and development of professional level projects.

In addition to the 6 credit-hour studio classes, ID students are co-enrolled in sequential 3 credit-hour support classes which cover a broad array of topics essential to the profession of Industrial Design. These include: ideation and design sketching, digital visual communication, materials and processes of manufacturing, design methods, design history, and human-centered design/ergonomics. Students apply the skills and knowledge provided in these support classes to the studio work to create an interwoven, integrated method of learning that progressively prepares the students for the advanced challenges of the program.

Freshman Year

Sophomore Year

Junior Year – International Experience requirement 3

Senior Year

A complete application includes:

• application submitted through the Common Application or the Coalition Application
• a non-refundable $100 application fee.  International applicants do not qualify for fee waivers.
• proof of English proficiency
• official secondary school transcripts and external examination results (Records not issued in English must be accompanied by an English translation that is certified by an appropriate school official, official translator, or U.S. embassy or consulate official.)
• Certificate of Financial Responsibility (only required for students needing F-1 and J-1 visas)
• online portfolio and essay (required for studio-based major programs)

Letters of Recommendation are not required and not recommended. The College Report, Secondary School Final Report, and Mid-term Report on the Common Application are not required and not recommended.

Once you submit your application, keep up with your application status through your wolfPAW account.  Also remember to frequently check your email for updates throughout the application process.