Industrial Design FAQs

• How do I apply to be admitted into the SJSU Industrial Design program?

  • The required sequence of courses for all industrial design majors begins fall semesters only. As such, spring semester admissions are very much not recommended. Instead students are strongly encouraged to apply for fall semester admissions only. Information on admission requirements can be found here. 
    
    Applicants must indicate BA Design Studies as their major of first choice. All Industrial Design majors are admitted as BA Design Studies students. If you were admitted with a major other than BA Design Studies, please email us at design@sjsu.edu

• Can I change my major to Industrial Design?

  • The SJSU Industrial Design program accepts change of major requests based on the availability of space within the program and the requesting student’s academic performance.

• What is the difference between BA Design Studies and BS Industrial Design?

  • The BS Industrial Design degree is a professional degree that prepares students to work in the field of design upon graduation. The BA Design Studies degree is a liberal arts degree. All new students are first admitted as BA Design Studies students. Upon successful completion of the first year of study within BA Design Studies, students can elect to enroll in DSID32A and participate in the BS Industrial Design Portfolio Review. Acceptance into the BS Industrial Design major is through portfolio review only.

• How quickly can a transfer student, who has all their GEs done before coming to SJSU, complete a degree in BS Industrial Design?

  • Due to the highly competitive and specialized nature of the industrial design profession, the BS Industrial Design degree requires four years of study for all students.

• What classes are transferable from my junior/community/other college?

  • Lists of courses that are transferable to SJSU and the Industrial Design program are available here.

• Who do I contact for advice regarding Industrial Design classes?

  • For all general information about the Industrial Design Program please contact Design Department Office: Art Building 120, 408-924-4340, design@sjsu.edu.