In today’s world, Master’s degrees in skilled fields are in higher demand than ever before, whether in education, business, engineering, computer science, or various fields of design. A specialized degree, such as an Industrial Design Masters, can give graduates an advantage over similar candidates with a standard BA in their post-collegiate career search, as well as faster advancement opportunities. With a salary range that begins with an average of $43,000 per year and a senior professional level average of $64,500, having a competitive edge in the job market can mean the difference of thousands of dollars over a lifetime career.
Industrial Design is offered as a course of study at a wide number of state and private institutions, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. However, the ideal institution for obtaining an Industrial Design Masters, or any other Masters’ degree, would be one where an interdisciplinary approach to education is a part of the overall curriculum and educational experience. Industrial Design, in many environments, tends to be taught in a very practical and scientific fashion. In order to excel in the field, it would be very beneficial for most students to learn about related or adjacent fields, such as packaging design, graphic design, art and design history, and more. This fosters a more well-rounded critical thinking approach to the field of Industrial Design work and will improve most project outcomes. Majoring in Industrial Design at a highly art and design-based institution can help make that happen; contact School of the Art Institute of Chicago for details.
