Most entry-level industrial designers have a bachelor's degree in the subject, and many go on to obtain industrial design training at the master's degree level. There is also industrial design training available that does not involve a degree, but rather consists of courses in the subject matter. Students attending college often gain real world industrial design training through internship programs at various organizations. Some training occurs on the job through training programs and learning from other industrial designers in mentorship programs.
Bachelor's degree programs are available at many institutions of higher education in industrial design. This degree provides a basis to begin working in the field and involves taking many courses that relate to industrial design. Students study basic design techniques as well as advanced design, textile design, and model building. Technology is a main component in industrial design training, as computer software is utilized to create models of various products before they are built. A portfolio of work is required by students, and an internship is generally done to provide on-the-job training and experience.
A master's degree in industrial design, often part of an institution's fine arts department, delves deeper into the subject of design. Students take classes in advanced design techniques that include three-dimensional modeling, industrial drawing, and materials. An internship is usually a part of the curriculum because it provides students with additional experience working in the field. The culmination of the master's industrial design training involves a thesis project that showcases the work that the student completed during his or her time at the school.
Courses are available for individuals who do not wish to receive a degree in the subject of industrial design, and are often tailored for individuals already working in the field to provide additional training on a certain subject. These include such subjects as specific software programs, advanced rendering techniques, and part design. An employer might require that its employees take this type of continuing education courses to stay current in the field.
Industrial design training is often offered on-the-job when an individual is hired for a position. This can take the form of classes or hands-on training working on the products that the organization creates. It is helpful for an individual working in industrial design to find a mentor that he or she can talk to about various issues relating to succeeding in the field and doing the job better.
