Design Drives Innovation at the School of Art + Design

Welcome to the School of Art + Design

Design drives innovation, shaping how we experience the world around us. At NJIT’s Hillier College of Architecture and Design (HCAD), the School of Art + Design, empowers students in Industrial Design, Interior Design, and Digital Design to push creative boundaries by embracing emerging technologies and developing meaningful solutions. Our curriculum integrates AI-driven design tools, digital fabrication, and immersive virtual environments, preparing students to lead in a rapidly evolving industry. From intelligent spaces that adapt to human needs to generative tools that enhance creativity, technology is expanding what is possible in design—equipping our students with the skills to shape the future.

Industrial Design
New Jersey has long been a hub for Industrial Design, with a rich legacy of manufacturing and product innovation. At HCAD, our Industrial Design program builds on this history while embracing a broad spectrum of applications. Students develop critical thinking around materials, processes, and user experience, ensuring their designs are not only functional and sustainable but also forward-thinking. Whether designing consumer products, medical devices, or emerging smart technologies, Industrial Design at HCAD prepares students to create human-centered solutions that shape the future of design.

Interior Design
Interior Design at HCAD goes beyond aesthetics—it transforms spaces to enhance how people live, work, and interact. Our program explores the intersection of design, technology, and human behavior, equipping students with the skills to create functional and inspiring environments. Whether crafting immersive retail experiences, adaptive workspaces, or dynamic public interiors, students take a hands-on, research-driven approach that responds to the ever-changing demands of the built environment.

Digital Design
At HCAD, Digital Design brings together technology, creativity, and storytelling. With the film industry expanding in New Jersey, new job opportunities are emerging for digital designers, set designers, and immersive experience creators, opening exciting career paths in media, entertainment, and interactive storytelling in the Tri-State area. Our students merge game design, animation, UX/UI, and emerging media to craft dynamic and engaging digital experiences. With AI, real-time rendering, and procedural generation transforming the industry, our program keeps students at the forefront of innovation. Whether developing interactive narratives, designing next-generation virtual experiences, or creating intuitive user interfaces, Digital Design at HCAD prepares students to lead in an ever-evolving field.

A Hands-On, Collaborative Learning Environment
Our collaborative, hands-on curricula ensures that students engage deeply with design challenges from day one. With access to state-of-the-art fabrication labs, immersive digital tools, and a vibrant community of creative peers and faculty, students develop the skills to not only adapt to change but to drive it.

At HCAD’s School of Art + Design, your ideas will take shape, your skills will evolve, and your creativity will open doors to industries being reimagined.

Welcome to the place where design meets possibility.

Martina Decker
Interim Chair
School of Art + Design