Education
A bachelor's degree in industrial design, architecture or engineering is essential for this career. In addition, an internship and work portfolio are beneficial for securing entry-level positions.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), many industrial designers go on to earn a master's degree in business administration because the industry is increasingly emphasizing strategic design and products that suit the client's overall business plan. Industrial designers with knowledge of accounting, marketing, quality assurance, strategic planning and project management may be more attractive to employers.