Department of Engineering and Design, College of Science and Engineering
137-139 credits
Introduction
Industrial Design students learn problem-solving methodologies, product research, drawing skills (both by hand and by computer), three dimensional model making techniques, materials, manufacturing processes, ergonomics, design theory, and marketing principles. These skills are applied in the design of many new and innovative products which eventually comprise the student’s portfolio.
Why Consider an Industrial Design Major?
The Bachelor of Science Degree program in Industrial Design prepares graduates to begin work as practicing designers in corporate, consulting, or entrepreneurial positions. Industrial Design is a highly competitive, professional service of creating and developing concepts and specifications that optimize function, value, and appearance of products and systems for the mutual benefit of both the user and the manufacturer.
The Industrial Design degree program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), 11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21, Reston, VA 20190; phone (703) 437-0700.
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Staff designer for a corporation that manufactures toys, electronics, furniture, outdoor gear, etc. | Design Consultant working in a small design firm that consults to a variety of manufacturers | Entrepreneur developing your own ideas
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How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
Declaration of Major
Entrance Portfolio Requirement
Declaration of a pre-major in the Industrial Design program at Western Washington University requires the submission of a portfolio which, in the judgment of the faculty, offers evidence of a candidate’s potential for success within the program.
A portfolio is a collection of an applicant’s best work, revealing the applicant’s interests and presented as professionally as possible. Applicants should submit work from high school/university courses, professional work, or self-initiated projects. For more information on design portfolios, please refer to the Industrial Design program website, www.wwu.edu/id/.
Portfolios are reviewed by an industrial design committee three times per year prior to the quarter of acceptance into the pre-major. Submission deadlines are posted on the Industrial Design program website. If applicants do not qualify for acceptance one quarter, they may apply for a following quarter after improving the content of their portfolio.
Since the sophomore series of design courses begins in the fall and the courses are sequential, it is highly recommended that transfer students begin studies in the fall quarter. Most Industrial Design courses are only offered one quarter per year and serve as prerequisites for the subsequent courses, so it is important to begin the sequence in September.
Entrance Portfolio Submission Format
To apply for admission to the pre-major, an individual must submit a portfolio according to the format and content guidelines listed on the Industrial Design website. Application materials will not be returned unless a self-addressed, stamped envelope is provided or the applicant may pick up the portfolio in person from the Engineering and Design main office, Engineering Technology 204.
Sophomore Portfolio Review
The sophomore portfolio review is held once a year during the second week in June and takes place after the first two years of studies (freshman and sophomore courses) have been successfully completed. Students will be selectively admitted as Industrial Design majors into the junior professional practice series based on their performance as pre-majors.
The requirements for this second portfolio review include successful completion of the following classes: MATH 115 or MATH 118; PHYS 115; ENGR 104; ID 110 or ART 110 or DSGN 220; ID 120 or ART 120; ID 130; ID 210; ID 220; ID 230; ID 310; ID 320; one Art History course (ART 109 recommended); a maximum of 90 credits remaining to graduate; and a portfolio.
More information on the second portfolio review is available on the Western Washington University Industrial Design Website. Early advisement is essential.
The Industrial Design program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), 11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21, Reston, VA 20190, phone 703-437-0700.
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.
