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Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Department of Industrial Design is multifaceted, offering courses in textiles, bicycle design, furniture design, prototyping in metals, woods and plastics, and working with outside industry professionals. Accredited by the National Association for Schools of Art and Design, students gain marketable skills through hands-on projects in state-of-the-art laboratories, led by professors who work in the industry. The Department of Industrial Design is part of the College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering, and Design. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our facilities and to meet with one of our faculty members. 

College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering, and Industrial Design logo.National Association of Schools of Art & Design Logo

Upcoming Events & Deadlines

Nov. 1st

Fall 2024 Withdrawal Deadline (Full-Semester Classes)

Nov. 25th-Dec. 1st

Fall Break (No Classes)

Nov. 28th & 29th

Thanksgiving (University Closed)

Dec. 7th

Fall Classes End (Full-Semester)

Dec. 9th-14th

Finals Week

6-9pm MST

Dec. 11th

Senior Fall Exhibition

9:30am MST

Dec. 13th

Commencement (CACED)

3pm MST

Dec. 16th

Sophomore Portfolio Submission Deadline

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What is Industrial Design?

Industrial Design (ID) is the professional practice of designing products, devices, objects and services used by millions of people around the world every day.

Industrial designers typically focus on the physical appearance, functionality and manufacturability of a product, though they are often involved in far more during a development cycle. All of this ultimately extends to the overall lasting value and experience a product or service provides for end-users.

Every object that you interact with on a daily basis in your home, office, school or public setting is the result of a design process. During this process, myriad decisions are made by an industrial designer (and their team) that are aimed at improving your life through well-executed design. (credit: idsa.org)

Areas of related course of study include User Experience (UX) Design, User Interaction (UI) Design, Graphic Design, Service Design, Design Research, and Design Strategy.

Common Skill Set

Drawing & Sketching
3D Modeling
3D Rendering
User Research
Visual Storytelling
Rapid Prototyping & Testing
Color, Materials & Finishes
Basic Engineering & Fabrication
Basic Computer Programming
Manufacturing Processes
Marketing & Branding

Areas of Profession

Automotive & Transportation
Consumer Electronics
Furniture
Housewares
Environments & Retail
Medical & Healthcare
Toys & Accessories
Commercial & Industrial
Personal & Lifestyle
Sports & Recreation

Occupational Outlook

Today, there are more than 33,000 working industrial designers in the United States and the median annual salary is $76,250. California and New York are the states with the highest concentrations of employed industrial designers per capita. Employment of industrial designers is projected to grow 2 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations. (2023, Bureau of Labor Statistics)

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Industrial Design (IND) Major, B.S.

Complete course and concentration descriptions

Program Catalog

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Sharon Park sitting around stuffed animals, toys, and book shelf Bailey Van Etten Portrait Samantha Donen Portrait Allison Patton Portrait all-together_ccx275

“I’ve always loved to create things. So when I discovered industrial design, I knew I’d found the right fit. Today, I see adults and younger enthusiasts interact with my designs.”

Sharon Park

Designer for KidRobot | Graduated Spring 2013

"The biggest take away from this program that is harder to access in the "real world" is the constant availability of someone to get a critique from or to think through a concept with."

Bailey Van Etten

Industrial Designer for Link Product Development | Graduated Fall 2016

"I have always loved innovating designs and problem solving. The MSU Denver IND program developed my design core with all the fundamentals needed to be a successful designer. The learning does not stop after you graduate!"

Samantha Donen

Industrial Designer for Angel Armor | Graduated Fall 2019

"The MSU ID program is incredibly unique in that it allowed me to self-direct my passion within design. In addition, the professors encourage students to experiment and find what excites them. MSU works to foster a healthy networking environment including international design projects, where I gained invaluable, real-world design experience. Metro is also known for its incredible facilities, and as a furniture designer, this was amazing to have at my disposal. From the wonderful professors, the endless opportunities, and first-class facilities, MSU paved the way for my dream of becoming a furniture designer. I have had the chance to work for notable brands like Crate & Barrel and Article after graduating. I'm so thankful for all MSU ID has done for me!"

Allison Patton

Furniture Designer | Graduated Fall 2020

“This trip was so educational…. This is definitely a class I will never forget!” “My personal and professional growth on this trip will continue to guide me through the rest of my studies and into my career. This trip has shown me that the education I have received her at Metro has truly set me up for success, and has given me the ability to communicate with professionals and dignitaries…..” “All in all, the trip was a huge eye opener. It opened my mind to things I never knew or cared about”.  

Students who have participated in a study abroad opportunity have this to say about their experience:

International Business Program

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