Industrial Design

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design at Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago equips you to transform innovative concepts into tangible, user-centred products. In a world driven by constant material and technological advancement, this programme is designed for aspiring designers who are passionate about understanding the interplay between form, function, and human experience. You will explore the core principles of design thinking, material science, and digital fabrication, developing the critical eye and practical skills necessary to address contemporary challenges and shape the future of manufactured goods. This undergraduate degree provides a robust foundation in a discipline that merges creativity with problem-solving.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is structured over four years, guiding you through a progressive curriculum that includes foundational studios in 2D and 3D form, digital media design, and advanced visualization techniques. You will engage with subjects like design research methods, materials and methods, and the history of design, culminating in a significant thesis project where you will independently develop and present your design solutions. You will graduate from Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago with a comprehensive portfolio and the expertise to pursue careers in product development, user experience design, and manufacturing innovation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive foundation in industrial design, covering foundational studios in 2D and 3D form, design drawing, and digital media. Students will explore design history, materials, and research methods, culminating in a senior thesis and professional practice projects. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, visual communication, and the development of innovative product solutions.

1 Fall Semester

Design Colloquium
2D Form Studio
3D Form Studio
Design Photography
Academic Writing I: Writing in Academic and Public Contexts

2 Spring Semester

Design Drawing
Digital Media Design I
Color Theory
Academic Writing II: Writing for Inquiry and Research
UIC First-Year Dialogue Seminar

3 Fall Semester

World History of Art and the Built Environment I
Industrial Design II
Human Experience in Design
Visualization I

4 Spring Semester

World History of Art and the Built Environment II
Industrial Design III
Visualization II
Understanding the Individual and Society course
Elective

5 Fall Semester

History of Design I: 1760-1925
Industrial Design IV
Materials and Methods
General Elective
Analyzing the Natural World

6 Spring Semester

History of Design II: 1925 to the Present
Industrial Design V
Design Research Methods
DES Elective
Understanding the Past course

7 Fall Semester

Industrial Design Thesis I
Professional Practice Track: Choose one of the following
Professional Practice Project I
Interdisciplinary Product Development I
Design and Identity I
Information Aesthetics I
Exploring World Cultures course
General Elective

8 Spring Semester

Senior Design Colloquium I
Senior Design Colloquium II
Industrial Design Thesis II
Professional Practice Track: Choose one of the following
Professional Practice Project II
Interdisciplinary Product Development II
Design and Identity II
Information Aesthetics II
Understanding U.S. Society course
General Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,984.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,430.00 - USD 1,788.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Chicago Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAnimation & Visual EffectsClinical Trials & DevelopmentEdTech & E-LearningEducational Support ServicesIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionLive Events & ConcertsSpecial & Inclusive EducationTalent & Artist ManagementVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AbbVie

Honeywell

NBCUniversal

School of Rock

Why Study Industrial Design at University of Illinois Chicago

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

University of Illinois Chicago typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Illinois Chicago in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Industrial Design at University of Illinois Chicago

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus jobs do not require a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

TOEFL requires a minimum overall score of 80 with specific listening, reading, speaking, and writing scores. For IELTS, you need an overall score of 6.5, while PTE requires an overall score of 54.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Some job titles include Industrial Designer, Product Designer, User Experience Designer, and Design Researcher.

What will I actually study in this course?

Industrial design makes ideas tangible. It is, at root, the conceptual and material articulation and fabrication of usable objects; things that fulfill a need, gratify a desire or make a statement; things

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start your journey in Industrial Design in January, May, or August. Choose the intake that best fits your schedule.
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