Transitioning from Industrial Design to Industrial Engineering: A Viable Path to Success
Understanding the Roles of Industrial Design and Industrial Engineering
Many individuals with a background in industrial design often find themselves wondering whether it's possible to transition into the field of industrial engineering. While the two fields share similarities, they are distinctly different in their focus and applications. Industrial design primarily involves the aesthetic and functional design of products, while industrial engineering is concerned with improving and optimizing manufacturing systems.
Exploring Educational Opportunities and Alternatives
To effectively transition into industrial engineering from industrial design, it is crucial to explore educational opportunities that align with your interests and goals. Many universities offer tours and information sessions that allow prospective students to visit engineering departments and get a feel for the programs they offer. Bringing along samples of your work can give advisors a better understanding of your capabilities and interests.
While industrial design is not typically closely aligned with industrial engineering, there are related engineering fields that could be more suitable for you. These might include mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or other specialized areas of engineering that deal with product development and manufacturing. Investigate whether it is possible to pursue a master's degree in one of these fields or to obtain a second bachelor's degree using credits from your existing industrial design degree.
Admission Requirements and Costs
Engineering programs often require a strong foundation in math, physics, and other scientific disciplines, which you may not have studied since high school. To bridge this gap, many community colleges offer affordable and flexible courses in these subjects. After completing these general education requirements, you can focus on engineering-specific courses and potentially earn an engineering degree in less than the standard four years, significantly reducing your overall cost.
The best way to determine the right path for you is to consult with advisors at engineering schools. They can provide personalized guidance and help you choose the most suitable educational program based on your background and career aspirations.
Alternative Pathways: Pursuing a Different Degree
For those who are not interested in pursuing additional educational qualifications, another option is to enter the workforce and gain practical experience. While a degree in industrial design may not directly qualify you for an engineering position, it does provide a strong foundation in innovative thinking and problem-solving skills that are highly valued in the engineering field.
Some professionals, like software engineers, have achieved success without a formal engineering degree. However, becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) typically requires a Bachelors of Science in Engineering from an accredited institution. This level of certification ensures that you have a solid understanding of the principles and practices in engineering design.
Competency vs. Formal Education
While it is possible to transition into industrial engineering through on-the-job training and practical experience, formal education plays a crucial role in obtaining a PE license. Formal education provides the structured learning and peer-reviewed training that is essential for demonstrating competency in a regulated field.
Although a self-taught engineer can gain the necessary skills and develop a successful body of work, being a licensed PE is a mark of professional certification and public trust. A license implies that you have met certain standards and best practices that ensure the safety and reliability of the projects you work on.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue a new degree is a personal one that should be based on your career goals and the value you wish to place on formal certification. If you are passionate about industrial engineering and believe that further education will help you achieve your dreams, it may be the best choice for you. For those who prefer to focus on gaining practical experience, there are still opportunities to succeed in the field of industrial engineering without a formal engineering degree.
-Godspeed my friend!