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Why Major in Industrial Design at Allegheny College

The industrial design major complements the College’s Art, Science and Innovation programs. In this major, not typically offered at an undergraduate level in a liberal arts context, students work at the intersection of art, design and practical problem-solving to produce innovative products that engage with emerging technological and cultural trends to develop design solutions. Technologies explored include robotics, artificial intelligence, modeling software, and production techniques such as 3D printing and CNC machining.

Unusual Combinations
Students often combine Industrial Design with:

Division

  • Visual and Performing Arts

Program Type

  • Major

Number of Credits

48 for major

 

Your Four-Year Journey

Industrial Design Overview

Year 1: Understanding

Your first year experience is designed to prepare your mind for everything that follows. The courses you take will prepare you to think critically, communicate creatively, and question everything.

Year 2: New Approaches

As a sophomore, you’ll declare your major and select your mentor. But that’s just the start of it. You’ll also be asked to choose a minor from an alternate discipline to keep your perspectives fresh and your mind wide open.

Year 3: Delving Deeper

As you delve deeper and take on a Junior Seminar, you’ll develop an even more eloquent understanding of your chosen fields. And you’ll begin to focus on improving your research skills and rhetorical ability in preparation for your Senior Comp.

Year 4: The Comp

One of the accomplishments our alumni are most proud of is their Senior Comp. Every Allegheny student must research, propose, create, and defend an original creative or critical project. You’ll be paired with a mentor throughout the project, and the experience will prepare you well for any step you take after graduation.

Faculty and Staff

Ian Thomas

Associate Professor

MFA, Texas Tech University; BFA, Slippery Rock University

Byron Rich

Assistant Provost, Academic Innovation

MFA in Emerging Practices, The State University of New York at Buffalo; BFA, University of Calgary

Frequently Asked Questions About the Industrial Design Program

What type of degree is an Industrial Design major?

Students who major in Industrial Design at Allegheny College will earn a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Are there any clubs and activities available for Industrial Design students?

Yes, there are multiple campus organizations that can benefit students in the Industrial Design program, such as Student Art Society. Explore all Allegheny College clubs and organizations.

Program Contact

Byron Rich

Department Chair, Assistant Provost of Academic Innovation, Associate Professor

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