If you’ve ever looked at a product and thought, “I could design that better,” you’re on the right track. Industrial design is all about creating things that people actually use, from smart gadgets and furniture to cars and shoes. But to turn those big ideas into real products, you need the right training. That’s where the best industrial design schools come in.
These schools don’t just teach you how to make something look cool. They teach you how to make it work, solve real problems, and stand out in a crowded market. If you’re dreaming of designing the next must-have tech product or a solution that makes life more sustainable, the right program can help you get there.
So, if you’re dead serious about turning your ideas into products people actually use, these best industrial design schools are the perfect springboard. From hands-on projects to connections with industry giants, these programs will help you build the skills you need to stand out. Let’s check out the best colleges for industrial design that’ll help you level up your design game.
- What Are the 5 Best Colleges for Industrial Design?
- What Can You Do with an Industrial Design Degree?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
What Are the 5 Best Colleges for Industrial Design?
Industrial design is one of those fields where picking the right school can make or break your future. The right connections, top-of-the-line facilities, and hands-on projects can take you from just having ideas to actually creating things people use every day.
To make your life easier, we’ve rounded up five awesome programs that are perfect if you’re into an industrial design major or want to get a product designer degree. Let’s get into it!
1. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Acceptance rate: 20%
The Rhode Island School of Design isn’t just a design school—it’s the design school. If you’ve set your sights on industrial design, this is the place to turn your big ideas into world-changing products. If you’re looking for one of the best industrial design schools, RISD absolutely deserves to be at the top of your list.
Ranked #1 in Most Innovative Schools and #9 in Best Undergraduate Teaching by the U.S. News & World Report, RISD is serious about pushing boundaries. It’s also ranked #4 in Regional Universities North, so you know it’s not just a creative hub but also an academic powerhouse.
RISD’s Industrial Design program is all about designing with purpose. It’s about making something look slick, sure, but it’s about responsible, human-centered design that improves companies, communities, and everyday life. You’ll learn how to think critically, solve problems creatively, and turn your designs into something people actually need.
The vibe here? Intense but inspiring. You’ll be learning from professors who are total rockstars in the industry. Take Leslie Fontana, for instance: the industrial design department head known for her award-winning designs and innovative work in industrial design.
You’ll also be working in facilities that could double as futuristic workshops. With cutting-edge tools like 3D printers and laser cutters, you’ve got the perfect playground to turn your wildest ideas into reality. Past student projects have tackled everything from sustainable packaging to innovative medical devices and even next-level transportation concepts.
Now, let’s be real: getting into RISD is tough. With an acceptance rate of just 20%, you’ll need a portfolio that screams, “I know what I’m doing.” But if you’ve got the creativity and the drive, RISD can open doors to companies like Apple, IDEO, and Nike.
If you’re ready to take design seriously—and have a little fun doing it—RISD is one of the best industrial design schools for you.
2. ArtCenter College of Design
Location: Pasadena, California
Acceptance rate: 67%
ArtCenter is where design dreams turn into reality. Seriously, this school has been shaping top-tier designers since 1930, and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, you won’t just be another face in a giant lecture hall. You’ll get actual face time with professors who’ve been there, done that, and are ready to help you crush it.
It’s no surprise that ArtCenter is ranked #14 in the QS World University Rankings (WUR) by Subject 2024. As one of the best industrial design schools, they offer 11 undergraduate and 10 graduate degrees across everything from industrial design to applied arts.
Not enough? You can even add minors like Business, Creative Writing, or Social Innovation to really stand out. It’s like building your own design adventure.
But let’s talk about their Industrial Design program. It’s hands-on from day one. You’ll work on projects for real-world clients: think Tesla, Microsoft, and yes, even NASA. (How’s that for a résumé flex?)
The facilities are insane too. Picture VR studios, prototyping labs, and tools that look like they belong on a sci-fi set. You’ll walk in with ideas and walk out with fully realized designs. This focus on practical experience is what makes ArtCenter stand out as one of the best industrial design schools for aspiring designers.
Now, getting in isn’t a total cakewalk, but it’s doable. The acceptance rate is 67%, and while strong academics (average SAT: 1244) help, it’s your portfolio that will steal the show.
Need financial aid? They’ve got you covered. Around 67% of students receive financial aid, with a massive $48.8 million processed every year.
ArtCenter is where the big players go to level up. If you’re serious about design and ready to turn your ideas into products that could change the world (or at least make it cooler), this school is calling your name.
3. University of Cincinnati (DAAP)
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Acceptance rate: 88%
If real-world experience is a top priority for you, the University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) is hard to beat. As one of the best industrial design schools in the country, it’s ranked #5 in Co-ops/Internships by the U.S. News & World Report, and for good reason.
Their mandatory co-op program lets you jump right in. You’ll work full-time for companies like Procter & Gamble, GE Appliances, and Whirlpool while you’re still a student. The best part? You’ll get paid while gaining up to 20 months of professional experience before you even graduate.
The industrial design curriculum here focuses heavily on user-centered design. From working on consumer electronics and transportation systems to home appliances, you’ll learn how to create products that people actually want to use.
DAAP is less competitive to get into, with a 88% acceptance rate, but the coursework is no joke. This program will push you to think critically and work hard, but the payoff is worth it. If you’re looking for a practical and career-focused education in industrial design, DAAP should be on your radar.
4. Pratt Institute
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Acceptance rate: 53%
Pratt Institute is the cool, creative kid in the industrial design world. This isn’t just a school where you learn to sketch pretty things. Pratt’s Industrial Design program challenges you to think bigger: designing products that are beautiful, functional, and sustainable. If you’re dreaming of crafting sleek furniture, fresh kicks, or digital experiences that blow people’s minds, Pratt has you covered.
It’s no surprise Pratt is considered one of the best industrial design schools in the world. In 2024, it was ranked #6 in the world for art and design and #4 in the United States by QS WUR by Subject. Oh, and it’s been holding steady in the top 10 worldwide every year since 2015. Plus, Pratt’s design programs are highly ranked across the board: it’s #3 in animation, graphic design, and industrial design.
Here’s the deal: their Bachelor’s program is for serious makers and innovators. You’ll spend four years learning 3D form, model-making, color, and digital design, all while experimenting and creating like crazy. They don’t just encourage tinkering, they demand it.
And if you’re thinking about grad school, Pratt’s Master’s program is where design nerds turn into industry leaders ready to tackle global-scale challenges. If you want to land a gig at a big-name company or go the entrepreneurial route, they’ll arm you with the tools to make it happen.
But let’s talk about Brooklyn for a second. You’re smack in the middle of one of the most creative and inspiring cities in the world. Want to network? Check. Intern at a top studio? Easy. Need a burst of inspiration? Just step outside: New York’s energy is infectious.
Pratt’s Industrial Design program isn’t just about thinking outside the box—it’s about redesigning the whole box. The school pushes you to break traditional boundaries and turn your ideas into products that actually do something for the world.
The bottom line? Pratt’s competitive, with a 53% acceptance rate, but if you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and create something meaningful, you’ll like it here. So, if you’re serious about becoming a designer who makes an impact, Pratt is where it’s at.
5. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
Location: Savannah, Georgia
Acceptance rate: 84%
SCAD is where big ideas meet real-world skills, and it shows. If you want to design furniture, cars, or the next gadget people can’t live without, SCAD’s Industrial Design program will set you up for success.
They’re all about staying ahead of the curve, with courses in everything from virtual product design to transportation systems. Basically, you’ll learn how to turn crazy ideas into products that both look great and solve real problems. That’s why SCAD consistently earns its reputation as one of the best industrial design schools in the U.S.
SCAD is also racking up rankings. It’s ranked #15 in QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2024, which makes it one of the top art and design schools globally. Closer to home, SCAD also stands out as #8 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, #4 in Most Innovative Schools, and #8 in Regional Universities South. That means you’re getting world-class instruction, cutting-edge programs, and a school that’s constantly ahead of the game.
And the facilities? Next-level. Think 3D printing labs, motion-capture studios, and more tools than you’ll know what to do with. On top of that, SCAD partners with big-name brands like Hasbro, BMW, and Coca-Cola, so you’ll work on actual projects that give your portfolio a major boost before you even graduate.
Getting in isn’t a huge hurdle, with an acceptance rate of 84%, but the students here still bring their A-game. The average test scores for those who submit is 1160 for the SAT, 24 for the ACT, and the typical GPA is a solid 3.6. So, while SCAD keeps the door open, they’re looking for students who are ready to put in the work and make things happen.
The vibe? Energetic, collaborative, and super supportive. Savannah itself is artsy and inspiring, but SCAD’s other locations in Atlanta and Lacoste give you options to switch things up. If you’re dreaming of designing a product that changes the world or something as simple (but genius) as the next must-have chair, SCAD has the tools, mentors, and connections to help you make it happen.
If you want a school where creativity and industry collide in the best way possible, SCAD needs to be on your list.
What Can You Do with an Industrial Design Degree?
So, you got your degree as an industrial design major, what’s next? The good news is that industrial design opens doors to a ton of creative and practical careers. You’re not locked into one path; you can design anything from sneakers to smart devices.
Here are some jobs you can land with an industrial design degree:
- Product designer. This is the bread and butter of industrial design careers. Product designers take ideas and turn them into real products people actually use: think smartphones, kitchen gadgets, or even sustainable packaging. If you like solving problems and creating things people need, this role is for you.
- Furniture designer. Love the idea of creating the perfect chair or designing furniture that’s both stylish and functional? Furniture designers focus on crafting pieces that combine aesthetics with ergonomics, whether it’s for homes, offices, or restaurants.
- User experience (UX) designer. UX designers bridge the gap between design and technology. You’ll work on improving how people interact with digital products, like apps, websites, or smart devices. It’s perfect if you want to focus on human-centered design and tech innovation.
- Automotive designer. If cars get you excited, this is your lane (pun intended). Automotive designers focus on creating vehicles that are sleek, functional, and future-forward. From concept cars to electric vehicles, this job lets you shape how people move through the world.
- Footwear or fashion accessory designer. Industrial design isn’t just about tech and tools. Many graduates work in fashion, designing shoes, bags, and accessories that combine style with comfort and durability. When you think of brands like Nike or Adidas, they’re packed with industrial designers and maybe one day, you’ll be one of them.
- Design consultant. Want variety? Design consultants work with different companies to help them improve their products, processes, or branding. You’ll get to jump between projects, industries, and challenges while bringing fresh ideas to the table.
- Exhibition designer. These folks design immersive spaces for museums, trade shows, or galleries. If you’re into storytelling through design and love creating experiences that grab people’s attention, this is a cool niche to explore.
- Sustainability specialist. With an industrial design degree, you can focus on creating products that are better for the planet. From designing recyclable packaging to energy-efficient gadgets, this role lets you combine creativity with a mission.
- Toy designer. Who says work can’t be fun? Toy designers create products that inspire kids to learn, play, and explore. It’s a combination of creativity, safety, and understanding what makes kids (and parents) tick.
- Entrepreneur. Have your own ideas for products? With the skills you gain from an industrial design major, you can start your own business and bring those ideas to market. Who knows? You might design the next must-have product that everyone can’t stop talking about.
With a degree from one of the best industrial design schools, you’ll have the skills to design products, spaces, and experiences that make life better—and cooler. Plus, the payoff isn’t bad either. In the United States, the average salary for an industrial designer ranges between $76,250 and $123,907 per year.
From designing the next big tech gadget or a sustainable solution to a killer pair of sneakers, an industrial design degree gives you a lot of options, and a solid paycheck to match.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best colleges for industrial design located in the U.S.?
Some of the best industrial design schools in the U.S. include the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), ArtCenter College of Design, University of Cincinnati (DAAP), Pratt Institute, and Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). These schools offer top-notch facilities, hands-on experience, and strong industry connections to prepare you for a successful career as an industrial designer.
2. What jobs can you get with a major in industrial design?
An industrial design major opens the door to careers like product designer, UX designer, automotive designer, and furniture designer. You can also work as a sustainability specialist, design consultant, or even a toy designer. If you want to design smart gadgets, eco-friendly packaging, or iconic sneakers, there’s no shortage of opportunities for industrial designers.
3. How much can you earn with a product designer degree?
The salary for industrial designers can vary depending on experience and industry, but for product designers, the average salary ranges between $76,250 and $123,907 per year. Graduates from the best industrial design schools often land high-paying jobs with major companies like Apple, Tesla, or IDEO.
4. Why is attending one of the best industrial design schools important?
Attending a top-ranked school gives you access to the best tools, industry connections, and real-world projects. Programs at schools like RISD, Pratt, and SCAD focus on making your ideas functional and market-ready. You’ll graduate with a strong portfolio, hands-on experience, and the skills to stand out in the competitive design industry.
5. What skills will I learn in an industrial design major?
An industrial design major equips you with a combination of creative and practical skills. You’ll learn 3D modeling, prototyping, user-centered design, and material science. You’ll also gain experience with tools like laser cutters and 3D printers, while sharpening your ability to solve real-world problems creatively. By the end of your program, you’ll know how to design products that are both beautiful and functional.
Takeaways
Choosing the right school for industrial design is a big decision, but it can set you up for success in a competitive industry. Here are the key points to remember as you explore the best industrial design schools and what they offer:
- Schools like Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), ArtCenter College of Design, University of Cincinnati (DAAP), Pratt Institute, and Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) consistently rank as the best industrial design schools in the U.S.
- The best industrial design schools give you hands-on experience, cutting-edge facilities, and real-world projects with industry leaders like Apple, Tesla, and BMW.
- An industrial design major can lead to jobs in product design, automotive design, UX design, and even niche fields like toy design and sustainability. If you want to work for a top company or start your own business, the options are endless.
- Salaries for industrial designers in the U.S. range from $76,250 to $123,907 per year, with even higher earning potential for experienced designers in specialized roles.
- Feeling overwhelmed about choosing the best industrial design school? With so many options, it’s tough to know where to start. A college admissions consultant can provide expert guidance, break down your choices, and help you confidently pick the program that aligns with your goals and future career.
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