Sophomore level Industrial Design classes typically range from 18 to 28 students whereas, junior and senior classes are limited to 12 students in each studio class.

A portfolio is a documentation and compilation of a designer's work and skills. It should include evidence of sketching skills, computer abilities, a sketchbook, models, art work, photography, etc. With every project you complete, document the process leading up to the final result (e.g. photos, written descriptions, functions and features of your concept).

As far as portfolios preparation goes, save everything from each project. As a project is completed, go back and organize the steps or phases of your design process and document them professionally. Your professors and upperclassmen can help you with advice in laying out your work.

Those who do not make it into the program may reapply the following year after improving certain skills, pursue another degree in the Engineering Technology Department (which accepts some credits taken thus far), or change majors. Counseling on this matter is provided.

Yes, however, the only industrial design courses you may take are those prior to the portfolio review which include: ETec 214, 215, 216, 311, and 312. Make sure you also fulfill any prerequisites for these courses as well.

To begin the process, contact the Liberal Studies office in AH309 to pick up forms. Form a committee of faculty members from the department areas you plan to study; they will assist you in creating your plan of study. The Chair of Liberal Studies must give final approval of your plan before you take it before the College of Arts and Sciences Curriculum Committee.

We do not offer a distance learning program for industrial design. Our course content constitutes class critiques, in-class demonstrations (daily for the drawing classes), team projects, field trips, and other activities which necessitate class attendance.

We rely heavily on the 'studio' environment where students have 24 hour access to their own spaces and learn just as much from each other as they do from their teachers.

Internships offer an invaluable way to gain work experience, sample potential career areas, and help build a portfolio. Washington state has over 50 industrial design firms, mostly in Seattle, that may offer summer internships. Many WWU students have worked with Boeing, Teague, Microsoft, and other companies.

Students are encouraged and assisted with applying for internships with companies that are interesting and career advancing. Companies occasionally contact the university and these positions are open to the students. Attending career fairs, networking at design conferences, participating in field trips are other good ways to get connected with prospective employers. Every company that produces products can ultimately use the skills of an industrial designer but not all companies know about our field or the skills we can offer so take the opportunity to educate them.

WWU also has yearly career fairs covering many majors and various companies come to interview interns or graduates. Information on internships and full-time employment can be found at the Career Services Center in OM280.

Two good websites that list info on ID , provide on-line portfolios for designers, and post job openings are: IDSA and Core77. Another reference is a directory of industrial designers and firms in the U.S. This directory can be loaned out to students by our IDSA Student Chapter president.

Since industrial designers have a competent set of broad skills, other opportunities might include internships in the following areas: CAD operator, working in a machine shop or wood shop, model making, sign maker, graphic design, exhibit design, any type of fabrication, illustration, window displays, or set design for theatre.

The general rule is: apply for graduation at least two quarter prior to your final quarter. For example, if you're graduating at the end of Spring Quarter, you'll need to apply for graduation during Fall Quarter. Plan to do your major evaluation with your advisor as early as possible during the quarter, well in advance of registration. See information below about how to apply for graduation.

1. Make an appointment with your advisor and download your Degree Application packet from the Registrar's Office, Old Main 230.
2. Bring a copies of all your transcripts, your ID Course Requirement sheet, and your official minor signed off (if you have a minor).
3. Fill in all your grades on the Course Requirement sheet and double check to see if you have completed all your GURs. The university credit evaluators can review your GUR's in the Registrar's office. You are also required to have 60 credits of upper division courses (300 level and above) and should count those before you come in.
4. Turn in your major evaluation to the ET office after your advisor has signed off on it. The ET office will return your evaluation to you or forward it to the Registrar if it is approved. Any exceptions will be noted and may require additional memos or petitions.
5. Turn in your major evaluation and Degree Application packet, to the Registrar's office.