Top Industrial Design Schools in the U.S.?

I'm a junior and I've been really interested in pursuing industrial design as a major. Can anyone recommend some schools with strong industrial design programs in the U.S.? I'm looking for a mix of big names and lesser-known institutions with solid programs. Thank you!

It's wonderful that you've found your passion in industrial design! In the United States, there are several schools with renowned industrial design programs. Here is a mix of well-known and lesser-known institutions for you to consider:

1. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) - Consistently considered among the best art and design schools globally, RISD offers a highly-regarded undergraduate program in industrial design.

2. ArtCenter College of Design - Located in Pasadena, California, ArtCenter has a longstanding reputation for its strong industrial design program with a focus on real-world projects and collaborations with top companies.

3. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) - With campuses in Savannah, Georgia and Atlanta, SCAD has a progressive industrial design program that emphasizes integrated design and collaboration across various disciplines.

4. Pratt Institute - Based in Brooklyn, New York, Pratt Institute is known for its rigorous industrial design curriculum and its commitment to sustainability and innovation.

5. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) - CMU, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is well-known for its balance of technology integration and human-centered design with its industrial design program.

6. Virginia Tech - As a part of its College of Architecture and Urban Studies, Virginia Tech offers a hands-on and research-driven industrial design program with interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities.

7. California College of the Arts (CCA) - CCA, located in San Francisco, features an industrial design program focusing on sustainability, entrepreneurship, and technology, making it a distinctive choice for those interested in these areas.

8. Auburn University - Auburn's industrial design program, part of the College of Architecture, Design, and Construction, is highly-ranked and emphasizes hands-on studio work and collaboration.

9. University of Cincinnati - Their industrial design program stands out due to its emphasis on cooperative education, offering students real-world experience working with industry partners alongside their coursework.

10. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, the industrial design program at UIUC allows students to explore a wide range of design areas, such as interaction design and product development.

While these are some of the top schools in the U.S. for industrial design, it's important to research each of these schools to know which one aligns best with your career goals and personal preferences. Don't hesitate to reach out to current students or alumni to gain their insights, and make sure to visit the colleges you're considering to get a feel for the campus and culture. Good luck!