Industrial Design Purdue University

Overview

The Industrial Design programme at Purdue University offers a comprehensive Master of Fine Arts curriculum designed for those seeking to master the intersection of creative making and strategic theory. Students engage in a rigorous studio environment that encourages the development of empathetic solutions to essential human needs.

This postgraduate course is structured to provide a deep understanding of the methodologies essential for creating new business opportunities and product innovations. By taking a systems-level view, the curriculum ensures that designers consider the larger context of their work, fostering resilience and growth within the global enterprise landscape.

Why Industrial Design at Purdue University?

The institution is home to internationally renowned educators and professionals who guide students through a design studio environment. This collaborative atmosphere allows for the pursuit of extraordinary design skills while integrating knowledge and theories that are vital for modern industrial applications.

A distinctive feature of the department is the availability of Teaching Assistantships for qualified applicants. These positions provide valuable art and design teaching experience, allowing graduate students to work closely with faculty coordinators while receiving benefits such as full-tuition waivers and competitive stipends.

The facilities and teaching methods at the university emphasise a balance between business, technology, and human-centric design. This holistic approach prepares graduates to handle complex challenges by producing innovative solutions that are both functional and meaningful in a professional context.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 29194 per year
• National fee: USD 28794 per year
• Local fee: USD 9992 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Industrial Design
• Interaction Design
• Design and Making Skills
• Innovation for Products
• Systems-level Design
• User Experience Design
• Human Cognition and Perception
• Parametric CAD Software
• Research Methods
• Teaching Assistantship Courses

Careers with Industrial Design

Graduates from this department have established successful careers as professional user experience designers and industrial design experts. Alumni are employed by a variety of major global brands across diverse sectors, including e-commerce, home appliances, electronics, and geographic information systems.

Notable employers of former students include high-profile organisations such as Amazon, Walmart, GE Appliances, Whirlpool, Samsung, Dji, and Esri. Additionally, the programme provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue academic paths, with many alumni securing positions as university professors.

The focus on both physical and virtual interactions ensures that graduates are well-equipped for roles in UX design, product development, and design research. By mastering sophisticated research methods and innovative technology, students are prepared to meet the urgent needs of the design industry today.