Industrial and Human Factors Design
Industrial designers combine creative potential with applied technology to transform ideas into practical designs.
The Industrial and Human Factors Design curriculum prepares students to become designers of marketable products and systems. This major is an interdisciplinary study of design that integrates aesthetics, ergonomics, kinesiology, anthropometry, material science, engineering, manufacturing, business, and the social sciences. The curriculum is designed to elicit students' creative potential and couple it with techniques and technology that transform ideas into practical designs. Industrial and human factors designers create products that are optimized and customized for human use, from medical devices and tools to furniture and automobiles. In addition to material and technological considerations, industrial designers incorporate nonfunctional elements such as aesthetics and culturally relevant features, as seen in many consumer products ranging from toys to cell phones. This major focuses on creating real-world, practical products and systems. Students will develop proficiency in creating conceptual designs that are effective, attractive, and sensitive to environmental sustainability and cultural concerns. Students will also learn various rendering techniques, from charcoal to three dimensional computer aided design, as well as visualization and communication skills. Strategic studies in engineering, manufacturing, business, and marketing complement understanding of the processes involved in developing evocative designs. Finally, students will be capable of designing products and systems intended for specialty consumers such as children, the elderly, and those with physical and mental challenges.
Program Specs
- Application/Major Code: BID – view in catalog
- School: Integrated Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science Degree (B.S.)
About the curriculum
Classes
View the classes you will be attending in the College Catalog.
This is the first (and only) B.S. degree of its kind in Pennsylvania.
To prepare students to become designers of marketable products and systems, the curriculum offers an interdisciplinary study of design that integrates:
- Aesthetics
- Anthropometry
- Business
- Engineering
- Ergonomics
- Kinesiology
- Manufacturing
- Material science
- Social sciences (psychology)
After graduation
List of jobs via the College Catalog.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics median annual wage-and-salary wages for commercial and industrial designers were $57,350 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $41,550 and $76,700. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,400, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $97,770.
Industries with the highest published employment and wages for this occupation are:
| Industry | Employment | Percent of industry employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services | 3,240 | 0.25 | $33.61 | $69,910 |
| Specialized Design Services | 2,930 | 2.57 | $31.27 | $65,050 |
| Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing | 1,700 | 0.64 | $26.30 | $54,700 |
| Plastics Product Manufacturing | 970 | 0.19 | $26.65 | $55,430 |
| Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing | 770 | 0.19 | $30.15 | $62,710 |
*Statistics reported in May 2010
Performance Standards
Transfer Procedures
Transfer students are welcome!
Students with previous college experience related to art, engineering, or product design may be eligible for transfer into this program.
View general transfer procedures via the College Catalog.
Clubs & Activities
View the entire student organizations listing or Greek Life listing.
Industrial and Human Factors Design Advisory Committee
Advisory committees, which act as recommending bodies to the faculty and administration, consist of in-field professionals who act as partners in the development of curriculum. Their curricular and equipment advice as well as their industry connections and internship opportunities are invaluable to our students and to the growth of our institution.
