Overview

The Industrial Design programme at Academy of Art University provides students with a rigorous professional education focused on the intersection of creativity and practical utility. This course is designed to transform bold ideas into functional products through a curriculum powered by industry collaborations and real-world technology. Students work in a supportive environment that prioritises the development of a career-ready portfolio.

Why Industrial Design at Academy of Art University?

The university offers an exceptional "no barriers" approach to education, ensuring that creative potential is nurtured without the requirement of standardised test scores or initial portfolios. Students benefit from a faculty composed of working professionals who bring current industry insights directly into the classroom. The institution is renowned for its interdisciplinary curriculum, which now includes over 20 AI-infused courses to ensure graduates remain competitive in a changing technological landscape.

Facilities at the university are of a professional standard, providing students with access to specialised environments such as the Equipment Lab and the Wood Shop. The Equipment Lab features advanced machinery including jet-milling machines, plasma cutters, and a comprehensive neon studio. These resources allow students to experiment with diverse materials, from metal and wood to plastics and foam, ensuring they gain the technical proficiency required by top global employers.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 40368 per year
National fee: USD 31224 per year
Local fee: USD 31224 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to build fundamental skills while encouraging students to discover their unique design voice. Modules may include:

Industrial Design
Undergraduate Foundations
Liberal Arts Education
Generative AI
Model Making
Digital Design Tools
Product Prototyping
Design History

Careers with Industrial Design

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the global design industry, equipped with the skills to lead teams and shape modern culture. Alumni have successfully secured positions at prestigious organisations, demonstrating the high regard in which the university's training is held. Notable graduate destinations include:

Lincoln Motor Company
Warner Bros. Discovery
Gensler
Disney Theatrical Group

The career services department provides ongoing support to help students transition from the studio to professional practice. By focusing on hands-on experience and portfolio building, the programme ensures that graduates can demonstrate their capabilities to employers in sectors ranging from automotive design to entertainment and architectural technology.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Perspective for Industrial Design

Computer Drafting

Model Making

Design Problem Solving

Color

Design Drawing

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

132 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Industrial Design View 89 other Bachelors in Industrial Design in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Official high school transcripts and diploma.

College transcripts (if applicable) must show the classes/subjects, grades, credits, and number of hours completed for each class.

Pay the Registration Fee.

Pay the $150 Application Fee.

Pay the International Student Services Fee.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

40368 USD / year

≈ 40368 USD / year
Out-of-State

31224 USD / year

≈ 31224 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

31224 USD / year

≈ 31224 USD / year

Additional Details

Undergraduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,239/unit – 3 units per class

Undergraduate Tuition (International Students): $1,463/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Industrial Design.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About