Major: Industrial Product Design (Endüstriyel Ürün Tasarımı)
Program Overview
A creative and technical program that blends art, engineering, and business to design functional, innovative, and user-centered industrial products. Focuses on product development, materials, manufacturing processes, and sustainability, preparing students for careers in manufacturing, consumer goods, automotive, and tech industries in Turkey and globally.
Key Learning Objectives
- Master product design principles (ergonomics, aesthetics, functionality).
- Develop skills in sketching, 3D modeling, and prototyping (CAD, 3D printing).
- Learn materials and manufacturing processes (plastics, metals, composites).
- Gain expertise in user-centered design and human factors.
- Understand sustainability and circular economy in product design.
- Apply digital tools (SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360, Adobe Creative Suite).
- Explore business and marketing aspects of product development.
Core Courses
- Introduction to Industrial Design
- History, trends, and role of industrial designers.
- Sketching and Visualization
- Hand sketching, rendering, and digital illustration.
- 3D Modeling and CAD
- SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360, and Blender.
- Materials and Manufacturing Processes
- Plastics, metals, ceramics, and composites.
- Ergonomics and Human Factors
- User-centered design, accessibility, and usability testing.
- Product Development and Prototyping
- 3D printing, CNC machining, and model-making.
- Sustainable Design and Circular Economy
- Eco-friendly materials, life cycle assessment, and recycling.
- Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
- Cost-effective production, assembly, and quality control.
- Digital Design Tools
- Adobe Creative Suite, Keyshot (rendering), and VR/AR for design.
- Business and Marketing for Designers
- Branding, intellectual property, and entrepreneurship.
- Practicum in Industrial Design
- Internships with design studios or manufacturing companies.
- Capstone Project
- Design and prototype a functional product (e.g., furniture, electronics, or automotive component).
Assessment Methods
- Sketching and rendering portfolios
- 3D modeling and prototyping projects
- User-centered design case studies
- Material and manufacturing process reports
- Capstone project presentations
Tools & Resources
- Software: SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360, Adobe Creative Suite, Keyshot
- Equipment: 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, sketching tablets
- Books:
- Product Design by Paul Rodgers and Craig Bremner
- The Industrial Design Reference & Specification Book by Dan Cuffaro
- Materials and Design by Michael F. Ashby
Prerequisites
- Creative aptitude and interest in design, engineering, or manufacturing.
- Basic drawing or technical skills helpful but not required.
Program Duration
4 years (bachelor’s), including studio work and industry internships.
Certifications (Optional)
- SolidWorks Certified Professional (CSWP)
- Autodesk Certified User (Fusion 360)
- Sustainable Design Certification (e.g., Cradle to Cradle)
Career Paths
- Industrial Product Designer (consumer goods, electronics, furniture)
- Automotive Designer (car interiors, exteriors, or components)
- 3D Modeler/Prototyping Specialist (digital design and rapid prototyping)
- User Experience (UX) Designer (product usability and interaction)
- Sustainable Design Consultant (eco-friendly product development)
- Design Engineer (collaboration with engineering teams)
- Entrepreneur/Product Developer (startups, innovative products)
Why This Major?
Turkey’s manufacturing and design industries are thriving, with growing demand for innovative, user-centered, and sustainable products. This program combines creativity, technical skills, and business acumen, preparing graduates for diverse careers in global industries. With hands-on studio experience and industry connections, students gain a competitive edge in a dynamic, visually driven field. Ideal for those passionate about design, innovation, and problem-solving.
