Individuals who are interested in becoming car designers can obtain an associate's or bachelor's degree in the field, although 4-year bachelor's degrees are more typical. Many automotive companies also hire individuals with a master's degree in product design or auto design. Students in these programs learn various parts of motor vehicles including exteriors, engines and safety features. They also learn about the elements that go into car parts such as the plastics, metals, electrical systems and mechanical systems. Bachelor's degree programs typically last 4 years and include an internship at a car manufacturing facility. Students also might be able to gain field experience at a research and design center or a mechanic's garage.
To enroll in a car designer training program, students usually must have a high school diploma or GED and must complete standardized tests such as the Scholastic Aptitude Test and American College Test. Also, some schools might accept individuals who have some work experience in the automotive field, especially in automotive technology or engineering. When looking for a car design school, students should look for programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Also, high school courses that help prepare for a bachelor's degree in this field include math, physics, drawing and auto body shop.
Courses in a car designer training program cover topics such as physics, chemistry, mathematics, automotive modeling, automotive lubricants/fuels, environmental science, industrial design and emissions systems. Students also might learn about chassis electronics, brake systems and manual transmissions. Classes additionally cover the basics of designing software such as AutoCAD and teach students how to develop car designs freehand. Studies can include three-dimensional fundamentals, human factors/design psychology and design management as well, according to the Art Center College of Design in California, which offers a bachelor's degree program in transportation design.
With education and training to be a car designer, an individual can work in several capacities such as those of automotive designers, graphics designers, industrial engineers, car visual designers or even technology directors. They also can become environmental design specialists, design assistants, design line managers or safety feature directors. In addition, they can advance to supervisory and senior management positions or even open up their own automotive design and engineering firms, according to SchoolsInTheUSA. Individuals with specialized training also can work on specific types of vehicles such as motorcycles, recreational vehicles or even watercraft.
Employment of commercial and industrial designers, which includes car designers, is expected to grow 9 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average salary for car designers in 2010 was $60,000 a year, according to SimplyHired.