

The Bachelor of Science in Product Design at University of Stanford provides students with an interdisciplinary program that combines creativity, engineering principles, and design thinking to create innovative products. In the early years, students build a foundation in design fundamentals, materials science, engineering basics, drawing and modeling, and human-centered design. These courses cultivate creative thinking, technical proficiency, problem-solving skills, and analytical reasoning, enabling students to understand the process of product development from concept to prototype. Through studio courses, workshops, and collaborative projects, learners gain hands-on experience in designing functional, aesthetically compelling, and user-friendly products.
As students progress, the program emphasizes advanced design methodologies, digital modeling, ergonomics, sustainable design, and product innovation. Independent projects, research opportunities, and seminars refine students’ design thinking, technical expertise, project management skills, and creative problem-solving. The honors curriculum encourages students to work on real-world challenges, conduct user research, and prototype innovative solutions. By graduation, students are prepared for careers in industrial design, product development, design consultancy, entrepreneurship, or graduate study in design, engineering, or innovation-focused disciplines.
Year 1 – Foundations in Product Design
• Introduction to Design Thinking
• Drawing, Modeling, and Visualization
• Materials Science for Designers
• Fundamentals of Engineering
• Writing and Research in Design
Year 2 – Core Product Design Studies
• Human-Centered Design and Ergonomics
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Prototyping
• Product Development Processes
• Design Research Methods
• Seminar: Innovation and Design
Year 3 – Advanced Design Applications
• Sustainable Product Design
• Digital Fabrication and Modeling
• Design for Manufacturing
• Independent Design Projects
• Electives in Industrial Design or Engineering
Year 4 – Capstone and Honors Project
• Senior Design Project or Thesis
• Advanced Seminar in Product Innovation
• Applied Design Studio
• User Testing and Evaluation
• Specialized Electives in Product Design
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in industrial design, product development, design consultancy, user experience, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum develops creative problem-solving, technical proficiency, design thinking, and project management skills, enabling students to pursue roles as product designers, design engineers, innovation consultants, or entrepreneurs. Independent projects and applied studio work provide practical experience, while the honors track strengthens preparation for graduate study or specialized professional roles. Graduates leave equipped to design innovative products, improve user experiences, and contribute to creative and technical industries.
This program is ideal for students who wish to combine creativity, engineering, and user-centered design to develop innovative products. Its structure emphasizes critical thinking, design competence, technical proficiency, and creative problem-solving, providing students with both theoretical insight and practical experience. Through studios, independent projects, digital fabrication, and research, learners develop the skills to design, prototype, and refine functional and visually compelling products. Graduates leave with the expertise, confidence, and professional readiness to pursue careers in industrial design, product development, innovation consultancy, or advanced academic study, contributing meaningfully to design and technology.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 650 000 0000
Email: admissions@standord.edu
Address: University of Standord, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305, United States