Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design

The Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design (BSID) at the Hines College of Architecture and Design offers a human-centered curriculum that combines advanced research, digital technology, and hands-on learning. Ranked #4 nationally, the program prepares students to become innovative leaders in the evolving field of industrial design.

What You'll Achieve

• Cultivate expertise in visual thinking, prototyping, and human-centered design, advancing to complex materials, manufacturing, and technology-driven processes.
• Execute a senior capstone project that integrates advanced research, innovative design, and real-world product development.
• Acquire proficiency in industry-standard design software, including SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Rhino, and Adobe Creative Suite.

How You Will Benefit

• Develop strong problem-solving skills applicable to design challenges in energy, technology, and sustainability.
• Engage in immersive hands-on experiences through internships, studio projects, and collaborative research initiatives.
• Build a professional portfolio and network through Houston's thriving industrial, aerospace, and technology sectors.

Job Opportunities

Graduates of the BSID program are sought after by industries such as energy, aerospace, transportation, and consumer electronics. Employers value the program's emphasis on human-centered innovation and technical proficiency. Through strong local and national industry partnerships, students are well-prepared for careers as industrial designers, product developers, UX designers, and sustainability consultants in a variety of sectors.

Requirements

First Year

Fall Semester

• ARCH 1358 - Introduction to Design Culture
• ARCH 1500 - Design Studio I
• ENGL 1301 - First Year Writing I
• MATH 1314 - College Algebra
• INDS 1360 - Visual Thinking Total: 17

Spring Semester

• INDS 2170 - Digital Sketch Techniques I
• INDS 1501 - Industrial Design Studio II
• ENGL 1302 - First Year Writing II
• MATH 2312 - Precalculus
• HIST 1301 - The U.S. to 1877 Total: 15

Second Year

Fall Semester

• INDS 2500 - Industrial Design Studio III
• INDS 2340 - Visual Communication
• INDS 2260 - Materials and Fabrication Methods
• INDS 2355 - Design History I
• INDS 2270 - Digital Sketch Techniques II
• PHYS 1301 - College Physics I (lecture) Total: 18

Spring Semester

• INDS 2501 - Industrial Design Studio IV
• INDS 2341 - Computer Aided Industrial Design I
• INDS 2356 - Design History II
• INDS 2160 - Materials and Manufacturing Methods
• INDS 2165 - Design Research Methods I
• PHYS 1302 - College Physics II (lecture) Total: 16

Third Year

Fall Semester

• INDS 3500 - Industrial Design Studio V
• INDS 3160 - Design Issues I
• INDS 3340 - Computer Aided Industrial Design II
• INDS 3360 - Human Factors
• HIST 1302 - The U.S. Since 1877 or equivalent
• Industrial Design Elective (Credit Hours: 3.0) Total: 18

Spring Semester

• INDS 3501 - Industrial Design Studio VI
• INDS 3265 - Design Research Methods II
• Approved Elective (Credit Hours: 3.0)
• Social and Behavioral Sciences: Approved Core Courses (Credit Hours: 3.0)
• GOVT 2306 - US and Texas Constitution and Politics Total: 16

Summer Semester

• INDS 4380 - Design Internship Total: 3

Fourth Year

Fall Semester

• INDS 4500 - Industrial Design Studio VII
• INDS 4260 - Design Issues II
• Industrial Design Elective (Credit Hours: 3.0)
• Language, Philosophy & Culture Core Course (Credit Hours: 3.0) Total: 13

Spring Semester

• INDS 4501 - Industrial Design Studio VIII
• Approved Elective (Credit Hours: 2.0)
• GOVT 2305 - US Government: Congress, President, & Courts
• Writing in the Disciplines: Approved Core Courses (Credit Hours: 3.0)
• Elective (Credit Hours: 3.0) Total: 16

Note

The Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design requires a successful review of work after the 4th semester for advancement in the degree.

Related Programs

• Bachelor of Architecture
• B.S. in Environmental Design
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering