Online Vehicle Design Schools: How to Choose

The artists who specialize in commercial or industrial design are the ones who create the look of an automobile. These professionals generally have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in industrial design, architecture or engineering. However, the opportunities available online in vehicle design are generally limited to industrial design and engineering.

How to Select an Online Vehicle Design School

Accreditation

The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) is one of the largest bodies accrediting design schools. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 40 NASAD locations offer industrial design (www.bls.gov). When possible, students will want to choose a design school accredited by NASAD in order to maximize the effectiveness of their degree. Additionally, engineering majors should look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Appropriate Training for Vehicle Design

Some students may choose to transition from engineering programs into the field of design. Many different online engineering programs exist for engineers, but vehicle design students should be careful to ensure that these programs include computer-aided design (CAD), drafting technologies and other mechanical drawing topics. Students in an online engineering program will want to discuss design possibilities with their advisor.

Career Prospects

Commercial and industrial design is a competitive field, with vehicle design being a small part. According to BLS data, the automotive industry is expected to see an almost 17% drop in employment from 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). This will make entry into the world of vehicle design difficult. Vehicle designers can make themselves more desirable to employers by having a strong background in engineering as well as computer-aided design. BLS also states that many industrial designers are making themselves stand out by completing master's degree programs in business administration.

List of Online Industrial Design Programs

Online Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design

Though exceptionally rare, there are some online bachelor's degree programs in industrial design available. These programs help students develop technical proficiency in the execution of 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional product designs, including automobile components. Students will also learn how to present their designs in a professional manner. Online learners will need access to a computer, as well as design software.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

There are many different fields of engineering available as online degree programs. Students wishing to become vehicle designers should choose mechanical engineering or another specialty that emphasizes CAD design principles. Some schools offer specialized programs in automotive engineering or vehicle design, but these programs are exceedingly rare. A bachelor's degree in engineering consists of online lectures, discussions and assignments. Some lab courses may require on-campus participation.