Industrial Design

The Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design at the University of Illinois at Chicago offers students a comprehensive education in the creative and technical aspects of designing products, systems, and environments that enhance everyday life. This program combines artistic creativity with engineering principles to prepare students for careers in various industries, including consumer goods, transportation, healthcare, and sustainable design. Students will develop skills in conceptual thinking, sketching, prototyping, user-centered design, ergonomics, materials, manufacturing processes, and digital modeling. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application through studio courses, design studios, and collaborative projects. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and workshops that facilitate hands-on experience with traditional and digital fabrication techniques, including 3D printing, CNC machining, and computer-aided design (CAD). The program encourages innovative problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication, thereby equipping graduates to create functional and aesthetically appealing designs that meet societal needs and environmental challenges. Interdisciplinary collaboration is fostered through partnerships with other departments such as architecture, engineering, and business, reflecting the interconnected nature of contemporary design practice. The faculty comprises experienced designers and industry professionals committed to mentoring students and guiding them through the entire design process from research to final presentation. Graduates of the program are well-positioned for employment in design firms, manufacturing companies, startups, and research institutions, or to pursue advanced degrees in design or related fields. The Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design at UIC emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and user experience, ensuring that students are prepared to contribute thoughtfully and responsibly to the evolving landscape of design.

In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, students must meet the following program requirements:

• Minimum Semester Hours Required 64.
• Course Work

• Comprehensive Examination: None.
• Thesis, Project, or Course-Work-Only Options: Master's Research Project required. No other options are available.
  • Project: All MDes candidates must present for review a public exhibition or showing of their project. The project must be supported by a major paper and digital documentation of the project, both of which must be presented to the school for archival purposes.
• Other Requirements: Continuation in the MDes program beyond the second semester requires an evaluation and recommendation of the Graduate Advisory Committee in the student’s area.

Requirements

Applicants are considered on an individual basis. Transcripts of all undergraduate and any graduate work must be submitted. In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, applicants must meet the following program requirements for the School of Design:

• Baccalaureate Field No restrictions; however, individuals who apply must demonstrate an advanced level of competence in industrial design through their portfolio submission.
• Grade Point Average At least 3.00/4.00 for the final 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of undergraduate study.
• Tests Required None.
• Minimum English Competency Test Score
  • TOEFL 580 (paper-based); 92, with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, and Writing 21 (iBT Internet-based), OR,
  • IELTS 6.5, with subscores of 6.0 for all four subscores, OR,
  • PTE-Academic 54, with subscores of Reading 51, Listening 47, Speaking 53, and Writing 56.
• There is a two-part application process and two separate locations for submission of application materials.

1. Office of Graduate Admissions online application portal via https://admissions.uic.edu/graduate-professional/apply
   1. Graduate Application
   2. Graduate Application Fee $70
   3. Unofficial Transcript
   4. TOEFL/IELTS/PTE (for international students only)
2. School of Design Slideroom via http://uicdesign.slideroom.com
   1. Personal Statement Required. This statement of purpose should outline the applicant’s current or previous work as relevant to plans and objectives for advanced study; describe professional goals and how these goals were developed; and state why the applicant would like to study in a research-oriented design program.
   2. Portfolio Applicants must submit a portfolio of no more than 20 images of current work demonstrating proficiency in the area of industrial design. Students who lack competence in computer-aided design will be required to take remedial work. Prerequisites and/or technical experience specific to this field of study may be required prior to entrance.
   3. CV/Resume Required.
   4. Letters of Recommendation Three required.

Scholarships

• Teaching assistantships
• Research assistantships 
• Graduate assistantships
• Global Education

The Bachelor of Design in Industrial Design at the University of Illinois at Chicago is a comprehensive program that prepares students to become innovative and skilled designers in various industries. The curriculum emphasizes both the creative and technical aspects of product design, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to address complex design challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Students engage in coursework that covers fundamental design principles, materials and manufacturing processes, human factors, and sustainability. The program encourages a hands-on approach, with studio-based projects, collaborative work, and real-world problem-solving experiences, fostering a practical understanding of the design process from conceptualization to final production.

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated design studios, prototyping labs, and digital fabrication tools. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding user needs and integrating aesthetic, functional, and ergonomic considerations in their designs. In addition to technical skills, students develop critical thinking, communication, and teamwork abilities essential for successful careers in industry or academia. The faculty consists of experienced professionals and researchers who guide students through individual and group projects, culminating in a portfolio that showcases their design capabilities.

The University of Illinois at Chicago maintains strong connections with local industries and professional organizations, providing students with internship opportunities and exposure to current industry trends. Graduates of the program often find employment in consumer product companies, design consultancies, electronics firms, and related fields. Many go on to roles such as product designers, user experience specialists, or project managers. The program also offers pathways for continued education, including graduate studies in design or related disciplines. Overall, the Industrial Design program at UIC aims to cultivate creative, skilled, and socially responsible designers who can contribute meaningfully to the global design community.