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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
Duration
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Bachelors
Major
Industrial Design
Area of study
Arts | Engineering
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


Industrial Design Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree

Overview

The Industrial Design Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree at RIT prepares students to create and develop innovative products for both consumers and manufacturers. The program focuses on the creation of products, systems, and services that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.


Why Study Industrial Design at RIT

  • Accelerated Degree Option: RIT’s 4+2 BFA/M.Arch. enables you to complete your industrial design degree and enter the second year of RIT’s master of architecture degree with advanced standing.
  • Industry Standard Technology: Our Fab Lab is equipped with 12 3D printers, in addition to laser cutters, CNC routing devices, and other technology, all for you to utilize when completing projects and class assignments.
  • Gain Real-World Experience: Six designs from Metaproject, the industrial design senior project, are currently in production at various companies.
  • Award Winning: RIT's School of Design, which houses the industrial design major, is ranked among the best, with Business Week naming it one of the top 10 design schools in the country.

What is Industrial Design?

Industrial design is a field of design that focuses on the creation of products, systems, and services that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. It involves the process of designing and developing the appearance, ergonomics, usability, and user experience of various products and objects that are mass-produced for mass consumption.


RIT’s BFA in Industrial Design Courses

RIT's industrial design BFA gives you the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as an industrial product designer and produce products used by factories, businesses, and everyday people. This industrial product design degree blends technical instruction with studio assignments.


Curriculum

Industrial Design, BFA degree, typical course sequence

  • First Year
    • ARTH-1##: Any 100-level ARTH course (General Education-Artistic Perspective)
    • ARTH-1##: Any 100-level ARTH course (General Education-Global Perspective)
    • FDTN-111: Drawing I
    • FDTN-121: 2D Design I
    • FDTN-131: 3D Design I
    • Choose one of the following:
      • FDTN-122: 2D Design II
      • FDTN-222: 2D Design II Workshop: Topic
    • Choose one of the following:
      • FDTN-132: 3D Design II
      • FDTN-232: 3D Design II Workshop: Topic
    • IDDE-102: Design Drawing
    • YOPS-10: RIT 365: RIT Connections
    • General Education – First-Year Writing (WI)
    • Choose one of the following:
      • General Education – Natural Science Inquiry Perspective
      • General Education – Scientific Principles Perspective
      • General Education – Mathematical Perspective A
  • Second Year
    • IDDE-201: Sophomore ID Studio I
    • IDDE-202: Sophomore ID Studio II
    • IDDE-206: ID Form
    • IDDE-207: ID Digital Drawing
    • IDDE-211: Human Factors Applications
    • IDDE-212: Integrated Computer-Aided Design
    • IDDE-221: History of Industrial Design
    • General Education – Ethical Perspective
    • General Education – Social Perspective
    • General Education – Elective
  • Third Year
    • IDDE-301: Junior ID Studio I
    • IDDE-302: Junior ID Studio II
    • IDDE-306: Materials and Processes
    • IDDE-307: Graphic Tactics
    • IDDE-311: ID Career Planning (WI-PR)
    • Open Electives
    • General Education – Immersion 1 (WI), 2
    • Art History Elective*
  • Fourth Year
    • IDDE-406: Professional Practice
    • IDDE-407: ID Senior Capstone I
    • IDDE-408: ID Senior Capstone II
    • IDDE-501: Senior ID Studio I
    • IDDE-502: Senior ID Studio II
    • Open Electives
    • General Education - Elective
    • General Education – Immersion 3

Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees

The industrial design BFA program is part of a 4+2 BFA/M.Arch. Pathway. Learn how this accelerated pathway enables you to earn a BFA and an M.Arch. degree in as little as six years.


Admissions and Financial Aid

First-Year Admission

First-year applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong academic background that includes:


  • 4 years of English
  • 3 years of social studies and/or history
  • 3-4 years of mathematics
  • 2-3 years of science
  • Studio art experience and a portfolio of original artwork are required.

Transfer Admission

Transfer applicants should meet these minimum degree-specific requirements:


  • Studio art or design experience and a portfolio of original artwork are required.

Faculty

  • Melissa Dawson: Associate Professor
  • David Evenski: Visiting Lecturer
  • Josh Owen: Vignelli Center Director

Facilities

  • Cary Graphic Arts Collection
  • Packaging Science Dynamics Lab
  • Fab Lab

Related News

  • April 26, 2025: Alumni explore the future of artificial intelligence at Imagine RIT symposium
  • April 21, 2025: RIT alumni innovators to speak at Futurists Symposium on April 25
  • March 10, 2025: Inequity and suffering bother me, says design pioneer who has changed lives

Program Outline

From thumbtacks to athletic wear and medical equipment to home goods – industrial designers produce products to be used by factories, businesses, and everyday people. The industrial design degree at RIT helps you develop the aesthetic sensitivity, technical competence, and the analytical thought needed to improve the user’s experience. You will be able to bring your conceptual ideas to life by developing your technical 2D communications skills and 3D prototyping ability. You will also learn how to formally move your ideas and products to the marketplace.

Read More

Careers and Experiential Learning

Typical Job Titles

Creative Director Creative Designer
Entrepreneur Ergonomist
Ethnographer Industrial Designer
Product Designer Researcher
Softgoods Designer Structural Designer
User Experience (UX) Designer

Salary and Career Information for Industrial Design BFA

Cooperative Education and Internships

What’s different about an RIT education? It’s the career experience you gain by completing cooperative education and internships with top companies in every single industry. You’ll earn more than a degree. You’ll gain real-world career experience that sets you apart. It’s exposure–early and often–to a variety of professional work environments, career paths, and industries.

Co-ops and internships take your knowledge and turn it into know-how. Your art and design co-ops will provide hands-on experience that enables you to apply your artistic capabilities in dynamic professional settings while you make valuable connections between classwork and real-world applications.

Cooperative education, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities are strongly encouraged for students in the BFA in industrial design.

Creative Industry Day

RIT’s Office of Career Services and Cooperative Education hosts Creative Industry Day, which connects students majoring in art, design, film and animation, photography, and select computing majors with companies, organizations, creative agencies, design firms, and more. You'll be able to network with company representatives and interview directly for open co-op and permanent employment positions.


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About University
PhD
Masters
Bachelors
Diploma
Courses

Rochester Institute of Technology (Dubai)

Overview:

Rochester Institute of Technology (Dubai) is a branch campus of the renowned Rochester Institute of Technology in the United States. Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, a special economic zone for knowledge and innovation, RIT Dubai offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including engineering, business, computing, and design. The institution is committed to providing students with a high-quality American education in a dynamic and international setting.

Services Offered:

RIT Dubai provides a wide array of services to support student success, including:

Academic Support Center:


  • Offers tutoring, study skills workshops, and other resources to enhance academic performance.

Advising Resources:


  • Provides guidance on academic planning, career exploration, and personal development.

Health and Wellness:


  • Offers access to healthcare services, counseling, and wellness programs.

Athletics and Recreation:


  • Provides opportunities for students to participate in sports, fitness activities, and recreational programs.

Student Leadership:


  • Encourages student involvement in clubs, organizations, and leadership initiatives.

Student Accommodation:


  • Offers on-campus housing options for students.

Parking and Transportation:

  • Provides parking facilities and transportation services for students.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

RIT Dubai fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community where students can engage in a variety of activities and experiences, including:

Student Life at RIT Dubai:


  • Offers opportunities for students to connect with peers, participate in social events, and explore cultural activities.

New Student Orientation:


  • Provides a welcoming introduction to campus life and resources.

Co-op and Internship Program:

  • Offers students practical work experience through co-op and internship opportunities.

Key Reasons to Study There:

American Degree:


  • RIT Dubai offers a true American degree, recognized globally for its quality and rigor.

State-of-the-Art Campus:


  • The campus features modern facilities and technology to support learning and research.

Co-op and Internship Program:


  • Provides students with valuable work experience and career development opportunities.

Study Abroad Options:


  • Offers students the chance to study at other RIT campuses or partner institutions around the world.

Global Connectivity:

  • RIT Dubai is located in a dynamic and international hub, providing students with diverse perspectives and networking opportunities.

Academic Programs:

RIT Dubai offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:

Undergraduate Programs:

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts in New Media Design
  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology
  • Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
  • Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
  • Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Technologies
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
  • Bachelor of Science in Marketing
  • Bachelor of Science in Finance
  • Bachelor of Science in Global Business Management

Graduate Programs:

  • Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Innovation
  • Masters of Science in Professional Studies: Future Foresight and Planning
  • Masters of Science in Engineering Management
  • Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering
  • Masters of Science in Professional Studies: Data Analytics
  • Masters of Science in Professional Studies: Smart Cities
  • Masters of Science in Cybersecurity
  • Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering

Other:

  • RIT Dubai has a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, with dedicated labs and centers supporting student projects and research.
  • The institution boasts a diverse student body representing over 75 nationalities, creating a rich and multicultural learning environment.
  • RIT Dubai has a high employability rate, with over 80% of graduates securing employment within six months of graduation.
  • The institution has a strong network of alumni, providing students with valuable connections and career support.

Total programs
226
Average ranking globally
#442
Average ranking in the country
#132
Admission Requirements

Industrial Design, BFA degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
ARTH-1##
Any 100-level ARTH course (General Education-Artistic Perspective)
3
ARTH-1##
Any 100-level ARTH course (General Education-Global Perspective)
3
FDTN-111 3
This course is an introduction to the visualization of form, thought and expression through the drawing process. Concepts are introduced by lectures, discussions, demonstrations, research, and assigned projects. Designed to provide a broad introductory experience, students will experiment with a wide variety of media, tools, techniques and subjects to develop drawing expertise and problem solving skills related to design and composition. Course work will be assessed through critique, facilitating self-assessment, and the growth of both a visual and verbal vocabulary. The focus of the course is to provide awareness of the full range of ways in which drawing is used as a tool for both self-expression and communication. (Undergraduate Art and Design) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring).
FDTN-121 3
This course is a structured, cumulative introduction to the basic elements and principles of two-dimensional design. Organized to create a broad introductory experience, the course focuses on the development of both a visual and a verbal vocabulary as a means of exploring, developing and understanding two-dimensional compositions. Concepts are introduced through lectures, discussions, demonstrations, research, assigned projects and critiques. The course addresses a wide variety of media, tools, techniques both traditional and technological, and theoretical concepts to facilitate skill development and experimentation with process. Visual comprehension, the ability to organize perceptions and horizontal thinking that crosses other disciplines and theories, are key foundational components to the development of problem solving skills. Accumulative aspects of the curriculum included the exploration of historical and cultural themes and concepts intertwined with aspects of personal interpretation and experience. (Undergraduate Art and Design) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring).
FDTN-131 3
This course presents a progressive study over two-semesters in terminology, visual principles, exploration, concept generation, process, and techniques of three-dimensional design. Using hands-on problem solving, student will develop an informed understanding of the 3D form and space with an emphasis on the elements and principles of visual design and their function as the building blocks and guidelines for ordering a 3D composition. A heightened awareness of form and space will be developed through lecture, assigned projects, and critiques. Students will also develop a personal awareness of problem seeking and solving, experimentation, and critical analysis. **Note: May be taken as a one-semester offering** (Undergraduate Art and Design) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring).
3
   FDTN-122  
This course is the second semester of a sequential, structured introduction to the basic elements and principles of two-dimensional design. Organized to create a broad introductory experience, students will build upon the visual and a verbal vocabulary, media, techniques, skill development and processes acquired during the fall semester. This term will also focus on the comprehensive exploration of color theory as well as dealing with conceptualization and more advanced issues related to problem solving. Accumulative aspects of the curriculum included the exploration of historical and cultural themes and concepts intertwined with aspects of personal interpretation and experience. (Prerequisites: FDTN-121 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
   FDTN-222  
This workshop provides students with the opportunity to learn more about 2D compositions within a more open and experimental approach while still covering the core foundational 2D design II concepts. Different topics may be taken in the same semester, but unique topics may only be taken once. Material and conceptual focus will be determined by the faculty proposing each unique topic. (Prerequisites: FDTN-121 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring).
3
   FDTN-132  
This is the second-semester of a sequential course. The focus is on composing three-dimensional form and its relationship to space. Students will build on their prior term experiences, which include the introduction to 3D principles, materials, and building processes. Students will develop the sophisticated skill of conceptualization. More advanced problems will be assigned and students will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of material and process possibilities for their resolution. A heightened awareness of idea development and design research will be explored. Inclusion of 21st century themes in the arts of social cultural and community. (Prerequisites: FDTN-131 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring, Summer).
   FDTN-232  
This workshop provides students with the opportunity to learn more about 3D compositions within a more open and experimental realm while still covering the core Foundation concepts. Different topics may be taken in the same semester. Topics may only be taken once. The focus is on composing three-dimensional form and its relationship to space. Material exposure will be determined by the topic’s instructor. (Prerequisites: FDTN-131 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring).
IDDE-102 3
This course will introduce students to drawing objects and three-dimensional space. Students will use the basics of perspective sketching, developing grids and mechanical perspective and orthogonal views. Students learn to depict various materials such as glass, metals, plastics, fabrics, wood, and other natural materials consistent with professional standards. (Prerequisites: FDTN-111 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring).
YOPS-10 0
RIT 365 students participate in experiential learning opportunities designed to launch them into their career at RIT, support them in making multiple and varied connections across the university, and immerse them in processes of competency development. Students will plan for and reflect on their first-year experiences, receive feedback, and develop a personal plan for future action in order to develop foundational self-awareness and recognize broad-based professional competencies. Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring).
 
General Education – First-Year Writing (WI)
3
3
 
   General Education – Natural Science Inquiry Perspective
 
 
   General Education – Scientific Principles Perspective
 
 
   General Education – Mathematical Perspective A
 
Second Year
IDDE-201 3
This course will focus on experimentation and discovery through the exploration of creative problem solving techniques. Students will explore the dynamics between objects and the user’s senses, emotions, and expressed needs. Using drawing, sketch-modeling and basic shop skills, students will discover the wide choice of materials industrial designers use to further develop their projects. Concepts of recycling and reuse are introduced along with philosophical design approaches, and historical examples. Emphasis will be placed on the improvement of craft in the development of projects and on clarity and professionalism in practice. (Prerequisites: IDDE-102 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall).
IDDE-202 3
In this course, design projects are conceived as the result of close contact between students and real-world projects commonly found in the manufacturing sector. Students research a specific manufacturing entity in order to understand its capabilities. Research will be conducted in the field and shared with the class to enhance the understanding of the realities associated with production. Students will be challenged to improve their ability to define problems, generate and promote concepts, evaluate their work and offer refinements of solutions. They will learn to derive inspiration from the material world and marketplace while simultaneously bringing inspiration to them. (Prerequisites: IDDE-201 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring).
IDDE-206 3
This course will emphasize the cognitive and technical skills necessary to manipulate material for the accurate three-dimensional communication of design intent. Projects focus on understanding the relationship of materials, manufacturing processes, products and the user. Special emphasis is placed on using non-toxic materials. (Prerequisites: FDTN-132 or FDTN-232 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall).
IDDE-207 3
This course will develop more advanced analog and digital visualization techniques, while expanding on graphic and three-dimensional components needed to create presentations and the workflows to achieve them. Students will learn various types of digital techniques using vector and raster-based software applications, and a variety of input and output devices for the creation of professional-level output. (Prerequisites: IDDE-102 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall).
IDDE-211 3
This course will emphasize human characteristics, capabilities and limitations as the primary design criteria in understanding, designing and analyzing systems, displays, controls, tools, and workstations. (Prerequisites: IDDE-201 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
IDDE-212 3
Students will develop the skills needed to effectively develop and communicate design concepts graphically, digitally and three-dimensionally, consistent with professional industrial design practice standards. Emphasis will be placed on the development, integration and application of computer aided design skills throughout the assignments, utilizing the relationship of analog and digital mediums as a means of enriching the design process. (Prerequisites: IDDE-201 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring).
IDDE-221 3
This course explores the history of the industrial design profession as it evolved in response to the Industrial Revolution and industry’s need for standardized approaches to aesthetics and design for the end user. Significant designers and their work are reviewed in the context of the economics and politics of the times. This course also surveys the history of modern furniture design from the late 19th Century to the present, including important design movements, individual designers and their significant furniture designs. Lecture 3 (Fall).
 
General Education – Ethical Perspective
3
 
General Education – Social Perspective
3
 
General Education – Elective
3
Third Year
IDDE-301 3
Students will explore the benefits and challenges of working with a design team to address a complex product, problem, or system. Students will explore group dynamics, creativity in design teams, as well as the nature of complex problems and the various methods required to solve them. (Prerequisites: IDDE-202 and IDDE-211 and IDDE-212 or equivalent courses.) Studio 6 (Fall).
IDDE-302 3
This course will highlight the application of design methods and processes through projects that focus on deepening the students’ problem-solving skills, studio skills (two- and three-dimensional sketching, drawing, CAD), shop skills (modelmaking) and presentation skills. Emphasis will be placed on collaborating with multidisciplinary partners outside the industrial design program, and/or, when circumstances allow, with external resources such as clients or project sponsors. (Prerequisites: IDDE-301 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring).
IDDE-306 3
This course will help students develop a theoretical understanding and technical competency in materials and processes applied in industrial design practice. Discussions and assignments focus on the relationship of manufacturing processes and materials selection to design intent. (Prerequisites: IDDE-202 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
IDDE-307 3
This course provides industrial design students with an introduction to the design and application of graphic elements to objects and environments. (Prerequisites: IDDE-202 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall).
IDDE-311 3
This course will introduce the business of industrial design. Field trips, guest lecturers and discussion of current trends help students understand the various employment opportunities for the design professional. The course will cover the mechanics of job searching; creating a résumé, cover letter structure and portfolio, and interviewing to help prepare for design internships, co-ops, and entry-level positions. (Prerequisites: IDDE-301 or equivalent course and completion of First Year Writing (FYW) requirement.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
 
Open Electives
6
 
General Education – Immersion 1 (WI), 2
6
 
Art History Elective*
3
Fourth Year
IDDE-406 3
The course will take an in-depth look at business of design, and employment as a design professional for students beginning the job search. Students will refine their résumé, cover letter, and portfolio developed in Career Planning as they identify career options through research and networking with professionals in their chosen area. Students will explore the financial and legal aspects of employment in the design business. (Prerequisites: IDDE-302 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
IDDE-407 3
This is the first course in a two-course sequence in which an industrial design capstone project is developed. Focus is on establishing content, planning, scheduling and research of a capstone project that explores the social elements of design either in a collaborative design process, or in the broader social impact of design decisions. Early stages of capstone development include ideation, concept refinement and evaluation. The capstone project is approved by the student’s faculty advisor. (Prerequisites: IDDE-302 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall).
IDDE-408 3
This is the second course in a two-course sequence in which an industrial design capstone project is developed. Focus is on finalizing design solution, presenting it in a capstone show, and creating a written document that addresses how the theories and methods used in the project have an impact on the current and future state of design in society. The capstone project is approved by a faculty committee. (Prerequisites: IDDE-407 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring).
IDDE-501 3
This course will explore the application of design methods and skills to projects addressing large-community and global problems requiring team-based, trans-disciplinary collaborations. (Prerequisites: IDDE-302 or equivalent course.) Studio 5 (Fall or Spring).
IDDE-502 3
Senior ID Studio II applies design methods and skills to advanced level projects addressing users with unique, non-traditional needs requiring multi-disciplinary collaborations. Project development will emulate processes used in professional industrial design practice. (Prerequisites: IDDE-501 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring).
 
Open Electives
9
 
General Education - Elective
3
 
General Education – Immersion 3
3
Total Semester Credit Hours
120

Please see General Education Curriculum (GE) for more information.

(WI) Refers to a writing intensive course within the major.

Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.

* Art History electives are non-studio courses searchable in SIS with the Art History attribute of ARTH; and are 200 level or above.

Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees

The industrial design BFA program is part of a 4+2 BFA/M.Arch. Pathway. Learn how this accelerated pathway enables you to earn a BFA and an M.Arch. degree in as little as six years.

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