Industrial Design AA

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.

Associate of Arts (AA) Degree
Core Classes

This program is available online and on campus

FND 122

Color Fundamentals Core/3

Color is a powerful tool. Discover how color psychology, simultaneous contrast, proportion, desaturation, atmospheric depth, light temperature, composition, and harmony can greatly enhance imagery. You will utilize various color schemes to explore color harmony using digital media.

FND 149

Introduction to Design Thinking Core/3

Unlock your creative potential by harnessing the power of the creative process. You will generate ideas to solve physical and conceptual design problems. Learn from faculty across different disciplines and engage with your peers to create innovative solutions through collaborations.

IND 111

Drawing Fundamentals for Design Communication Core/3

Build a solid foundation for visual communication by learning the linear perspective theory to accurately communicate your ideas through drawing! You will learn the theory through drafting exercises, develop freehand drawing skills, and produce quick digital sketches to accurately represent and communicate three-dimensional objects in two dimensions.

IND 123

Computer Drafting Core/3

Develop skills in drafting and mechanical drawing to clearly communicate three-dimensional design ideas. Using industry-standard dimensioning principles and Autodesk Fusion, you’ll learn to translate concepts into precise visual representations.

IND 138

Model Making - Fall Core/3

The ability to communicate your design ideas in quick and accurate ways is a valuable skill. Through design and modeling projects, you will learn to make design models for industrial design evaluation.

IND 151

Design Drawing 1 Core/3

Develop industrial design-quality drawing skills to visually communicate your ideas as three-dimensional forms. You'll improve the quality of your sketches and gain perspective skills by focusing on rendering, craftsmanship, accurate perspective, contrast, and composition.

IND 180

Development of Form Core/3

Further your language of form and bring your ideas to life using various model making skills. Practice generating photo realistic finishes.

IND 211

Design Drawing 2 Core/3

Practical freehand sketching abilities are a valuable asset. You'll apply line, light, shade, shadow, value and contrast to shapes found in manufactured products, and begin the use of color. (This course is cross-listed with IND 662.)

IND 285

Graphics and Portfolio Core/3

Learn the basics of graphic design layout, portfolio organization, and the importance and art of storytelling in your portfolio. You will develop a portfolio for BFA Mid-Point Review/AA Final Review and layout that is applicable for internship applications while learning the basics of graphic design and layout.

Degree Requirements

Unit RequirementsUnits
Core24
Sophomore Portfolio3
Major15
Liberal Arts18
Total60

AA INDUSTRIAL DESIGN DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

  • Minimum grade of C- in all major coursework.
  • Minimum 2.0 GPA and the following general education requirements:
    1 Creative Communication course
    1 Written Communication: Critical Thinking course
    1 Industrial Design Historical Awareness course
    1 Materials Science course
    1 Employment Communications and Practices course

After above general education requirements are met, take Liberal Arts electives as needed to fulfill the Liberal Arts unit requirement.

Additional Information

Program Learning Outcomes

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