Associate of Arts in Industrial Design in San Francisco United States | Academy of Art University

The School of Industrial Design's Associate of Arts program enables students to build a foundational knowledge of physical design principles. Those earning an AA degree are well-positioned to smoothly advance into the Bachelor of Fine Arts program.

Undergraduate students will achieve the following performance standards:

Design Process and Storytelling

Synthesize gathered data and analysis to establish relevant design goals and criteria
Visually present diverse design concepts that fulfill the established objectives and criteria
Illustrate the evolution of distinctive and suitable forms to achieve design goals
Create 3-D models that reflect design intentions and assess design qualities
Articulate the design decision-making process, evaluating concepts against the established criteria
Demonstrate awareness of mass-production requirements
Show consideration for sustainability and human-centered factors
Visual Communication

Precisely convey intended forms, proportions, dimensions, and packaging details through drawings
Achieve consistent visual harmony between 2-D (drawings) and 3-D (models)
Finish models and visualizations with skilled craftsmanship and appropriate color application for each project
Professional Readiness

Develop a professional portfolio suitable for pursuing entry-level support positions in the industry
Show attention to graphic layout design in portfolio presentations
Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of Academy of Art University will demonstrate the capacity to:

Create a portfolio of work appropriate for pursuing professional opportunities in their selected art and design discipline.
Address creative challenges within their art and design field, incorporating research and integration of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
Professionally articulate ideas and connect with target audiences using visual, verbal, and written presentation methods relevant to their discipline.
Make technical, aesthetic, and conceptual choices grounded in art and design fundamentals.
Critique work within their field, including personal work, using industry-standard terminology.
Identify how significant cultural and aesthetic movements, both historical and current, influence art and design outcomes.
Acquire professional competencies and behaviors needed to succeed in the international art and design market.
Participate in diverse communities beyond academic settings through internships, study abroad programs, athletics, student organizations, and collaborative, civic, and pro bono initiatives.