Industrial Design
The Industrial Design program at Notre Dame University provides an interdisciplinary and forward-looking education that merges creativity, functionality, and innovation. Students learn to design products, systems, and experiences that are not only visually compelling but also technically efficient and user-centered. The curriculum emphasizes human-centered design principles, ergonomics, sustainability, and emerging technologies, allowing students to create solutions that respond to real-world needs. From sketching and model-making to digital prototyping and materials testing, students develop a comprehensive skill set that spans artistic intuition and scientific reasoning.
Throughout the four-year journey, students engage in studio-based projects that simulate professional design workflows while receiving individualized mentorship from experienced faculty. Courses incorporate engineering fundamentals, visual communication, product aesthetics, and social impact design, giving students a solid foundation to explore innovation at the intersection of design and technology. Collaboration with peers from business, engineering, and computer science further strengthens their ability to thrive in multidisciplinary environments. The program culminates in a senior thesis project, where students develop a complete design proposal—from research and ideation to prototyping and presentation—that demonstrates their readiness to enter the professional world of design with confidence and clarity.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Industrial Design
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 03 January 2026
- Location: University of Notre Dame, United States
- Field of Study: Industrial Design
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Design and Form
- Introduction to Industrial Design
- Drawing and Visualization Techniques
- Materials and Processes I
- Design Thinking and Problem Solving
- Art and Design History
Year 2 – Tools, Function, and Interaction
- CAD and 3D Modeling
- Human Factors and Ergonomics
- Materials and Processes II
- Interaction Design Principles
- Elective: Design Ethics
Year 3 – Systems, Strategy, and Innovation
- Product Development Studio
- Sustainability in Design
- Visual Communication for Designers
- Prototyping and Fabrication
- Elective: Technology Integration
Year 4 – Professional Practice and Portfolio
- Senior Design Thesis
- Portfolio and Brand Identity Development
- Business for Designers
- Design Leadership and Strategy
- Capstone Exhibition
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Industrial Design program are well-prepared for a wide range of roles where innovation, usability, and form come together. Common career paths include product designer, UX/UI designer, design strategist, innovation consultant, and furniture or packaging designer. Industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, healthcare, education, furniture, and sustainable technology offer rich opportunities for employment. The program’s balance of artistic creativity and technical understanding makes graduates particularly valuable in both corporate and startup environments. Additionally, many pursue graduate studies in design research, architecture, engineering management, or interaction design, building on their foundational training. Their ability to combine empathy, aesthetics, and functionality positions them to contribute meaningfully to projects that shape how people live, work, and interact with the world.
Why Choose This Program
Notre Dame’s Industrial Design program stands out for its holistic, user-centered, and industry-relevant approach to design education. The program offers a balance of creative freedom and technical discipline, encouraging students to think critically while making tangible, impactful products. With access to state-of-the-art workshops, digital labs, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world design briefs, students build both confidence and competence. Faculty mentorship, hands-on experiences, and a strong emphasis on ethical and sustainable design practices empower students to develop purposeful design solutions. For aspiring designers who want to shape the future of products and services with empathy and vision, this program provides the tools, mindset, and professional readiness needed to lead in an evolving global design landscape.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 574 631 5000
Email: admissions@nd.edu
Address: University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States
