Associate of Arts (AA) in Industrial Design
Academy of Art University
Key Information
Campus location
San Francisco, USA
Languages
English
Study format
Distance Learning, On-Campus
Duration
4 semesters
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
USD 1,156 *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Jun 2024
* per unit for international students | $1,072 per unit for domestic students. Additional fees apply
Introduction
The School of Industrial Design's AA program affords students the opportunity to develop an understanding of the fundamentals of physical design. Graduates with an Associate of Arts degree are prepared for a seamless transition into the BFA program.
Program Outcome
Undergraduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:
Design Process and Storytelling
- Summarize the acquired information and analysis to set relevant design objective(s) and design criteria
- Visually communicate a variety of design ideas that address the set design objectives and criteria
- Visually communicate development processes of unique and appropriate forms to meet the design objectives
- Develop 3-D models reflecting design intentions and to evaluate design qualities
- Communicate the design decision-making process, evaluating the ideas through the set design criteria
- Exhibit consideration for mass-productions
- Exhibit consideration for sustainability and human factors
Visual Communication
- Accurately communicate intended forms, proportions, dimensions, and packaging information in drawings
- Produce cohesive appearances between 2-D (drawings) and 3-D (models)
- Complete models and visualization with craftsmanship and application of colors appropriate to the project
Professional Readiness
- Produce a professional portfolio appropriate for seeking an entry-level supportive role within the industry
- Demonstrate consideration for graphic layouts in portfolio pages
Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:
- Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
- Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
- Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
- Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
- Evaluate work in their field, including their own work, using professional terminology.
- Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
- Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.
Career Opportunities
As a graduate of the Academy of Art University’s Industrial Design program, you will have a range of career opportunities from which to choose. Our facilities, faculty, and hands-on learning provide the tools you need to succeed in your chosen career.
Clay Modeler
Sketch tangible examples of what the future might hold to develop detailed 3D physical clay models based on the design direction and physical properties of an object such as a vase, car, or even a ship.
Digital Modeler
Create a digital 3D model based on design direction as a digital modeler. You'll take 2D and visual concepts and bring them to life in 3D software to help visualize the final transportation and product design piece.
Footwear Designer
Work for designer labels, sportswear, or specialist footwear companies. Produce mood boards and design sketches to develop ideas. Create the patterns which are made into shoes.
Junior Designer
Create initial designs for the senior design team as a junior designer in a design studio. You'll be responsible for professional concept mockups, study models, and sketches.
Product Designer
Design most things we use in our day-to-day lives, from cutlery to clocks and computers, as well as specialist products like medical, electronics or telecommunications equipment. Improve the way that existing products work and look and/or produce them at a lower cost.
Toy Designer
Research the preferences of particular age groups. Create sketches and prototypes to produce products that are attractive and functional. Ensure that products are appropriate and safe for specific age groups.
Transportation Designer
Create designs for vehicles and transportation-related products. Areas of specialty include automotive concept design, public transportation, and automobile and aircraft interiors. Must have a strong background in design and significant knowledge of computer software and computer-aided design programs.
UX/UI Designer
Develop scenario-based digital and physical user interaction designs. Craft every touch point in a digital or physical product to ensure brand consistency and emotional appeal.
Curriculum
Unit Requirements
Major Coursework | 15 |
Liberal Arts | 18 |
Core | 33 |
Total | 66 |
Degree Requirements
- A minimum grade of C- in all core courses, major courses, and LA 107 Writing for the Multilingual Artist or 108 Composition for the Artist
- Minimum 2.0 GPA and the following general education requirements:
- 1 Written Communication: Composition
- 1 Written Communication: Critical Thinking
- 2 Art Historical Awareness: Western Art
- 1 Employment Communications & Practices
After the above general education requirements are met, take Liberal Arts electives as needed to fulfill the Liberal Arts unit requirement.
Curriculum
Semester 1
- FND 149: Introduction to Design Thinking (Core)
- IND 111: Perspective for Industrial Design (Core)
- IND 138: Model Making 1 (Core)
- LA 101: Freshman Symposium: Artistic Resilience (Liberal Arts)
Semester 2
- FND 122: Color Fundamentals (Core)
Recommended for summer - IND 123: Computer Drafting (Core)
- IND 151: Design Drawing 1 (Core)
- IND 180: Development of Form (Core)
- LA 108: Composition for the Artist (Liberal Arts)
- LA 120: Art History Through the 15th Century (Liberal Arts)
Recommended for summer
Semester 3
- IND 211: Design Drawing 2 (Core)
- IND 223: Digital 3D Modeling 1 (Core)
- IND 240: Product Design: Ergonomics (Major)
- LA 121: Art History Through the 19th Century (Liberal Arts)
- LA 291: Designing Careers (Liberal Arts)
Semester 4
- IND 163: Introduction to Digital Imaging (Core)
- IND 251: Design Drawing 3 (Major)
- IND 263: Digital 3D Modeling 2 (Major)
- IND 271: Product Modeling (Core)
- IND 280: Product Design: Creative Process (Major)
- IND 329: Materials and Processes (Major)
Recommended for summer - LA 202: English Composition: Creative Persuasion & Argument (Liberal Arts)
Recommended for summer
Facilities
Gallery
English Language Requirements
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