Studying industrial design abroad
What is industrial design?
Industrial design is the study of creating and developing products that are both functional and visually appealing. It focuses on designing everyday objects, from electronics and furniture to vehicles and household items, considering usability, aesthetics, and production processes. The field combines creativity with practical problem-solving to improve how people interact with products.
Industrial design draws on knowledge from engineering, materials science, ergonomics, and visual arts. As an industrial design student, you will learn how to conceptualise ideas, develop prototypes, and refine designs to meet user needs. Your studies may take you from design studios to workshops, factories, and real-world testing environments.
Why study industrial design abroad?
Studying industrial design in another country exposes you to diverse design cultures, techniques, and innovations. You could visit international design exhibitions, explore historic design hubs, or participate in cross-cultural collaborative projects. Experiencing design in different cultural contexts helps you understand global trends and user needs better than textbooks alone.
International study also allows you to build a network with designers, manufacturers, and organisations worldwide. You will gain skills in global collaboration, cross-cultural communication, and design thinking applied in real-world scenarios.
What you will study
Industrial design programs often combine theoretical learning with practical experience. Key areas of study can include:
- Product Design – developing concepts that are functional, ergonomic, and attractive.
- Materials and Manufacturing – understanding how materials and production methods affect design.
- User Experience and Interaction – designing products that are intuitive and user-friendly.
- Sustainability in Design – creating products that minimise environmental impact.
- Digital Design and Modelling – using software to visualise and simulate designs.
- Research and Prototyping – testing ideas through models, experiments, and user feedback.
Many courses include studio work, workshops, internships, and collaborations with industry partners or design firms.
Related subjects you might also like:
- Graphic Design
- Mechanical Engineering
- Architecture
- Human Factors and Ergonomics
- Product Development
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Design (BDes) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Industrial Design. Some universities offer programs that integrate design with engineering, business, or technology.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Design (MDes) or Master of Research (MRes) in Industrial Design, Product Innovation, or User Experience Design. Specialisations may focus on sustainable design, digital fabrication, or advanced prototyping. Professional accreditation may be available through recognised design organisations in some regions.
Careers
A degree in industrial design can lead to careers in product design, manufacturing, consulting, and research. Graduates often work as industrial designers, user experience designers, product developers, or design consultants.
Other roles include project managers, design strategists, innovation specialists, or exhibition designers. Opportunities also exist in automotive, technology, consumer goods, and furniture industries.
Beyond these paths, industrial design graduates may work as educators, design researchers, or creative directors. The skills you develop are valued internationally, giving you the opportunity to influence how people interact with products and environments worldwide.