Bachelor in Transportation Design

At ArtCenter College of Design, tuition is 50,606 USD per year, while applications for the Sep 2027 intake are due by Feb 1, 2027.

The Bachelor in Transportation Design at ArtCenter College of Design is a degree program for students who want to design the vehicles of the future. It's a 4-year program that teaches you about the history and technology of transportation while giving you hands-on experience designing models and vehicles. You'll study in Pasadena, California, near many top automotive design and alternative energy studios.

The curriculum includes classes on drawing, physical and digital modeling, vehicle architecture, materials, and aerodynamics. You'll also learn about sustainable mobility, product life cycle, and brand integrity. The program has three concentrations: Vehicle Exteriors, Vehicle Interiors, and Alternative Transportation. You'll gain skills in designing vehicles with distinctive personalities and high-performing functions.

Graduates of this program can become Exterior Designers, Interior Designers, Alternative Transportation Designers, Automotive Designers, or User Experience Designers. They can work in the automotive, aerospace, or public transportation industries for companies like car manufacturers, design studios, or transportation startups. With a portfolio and skills in transportation design, you'll be ready to start your career in this exciting field.

ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena is a leading art and design institution that combines rigorous studio practice with industry relevance. Established in 1930, the college serves a diverse community of creatives, including a substantial international cohort. Programs span graphic design, transportation design, product and entertainment design among others, and are designed to develop strong portfolios and workplace-ready skills.

Teaching at ArtCenter emphasizes hands-on projects led by industry practitioners and artists, providing direct exposure to professional standards and workflows. State-of-the-art workshops, digital labs and collaborative studios enable students to prototype and present high-quality work. Internship networks and industry partnerships regularly connect students with design firms, studios and manufacturers, supporting placement and freelance opportunities. The college’s pedagogy balances concept development, technical craft and professional practice.

Campus life is studio-centered and project-driven, with exhibitions, critiques and industry showcases forming a core part of the learning experience. International students benefit from dedicated advising, portfolio guidance and career services that help translate creative training into employment or entrepreneurial ventures. Graduates from ArtCenter are known for strong visual communication and applied design skills sought by leading companies and studios worldwide, making it an attractive destination for motivated creatives who want practical preparation for competitive design careers.