design programs

[Dan Zollman]

Hi everyone,

I've been researching programs for the past couple weeks, and although I've covered a lot, I thought I'd put a tentacle out here to see if anyone has done a similar search.

I'm one year into college and I've started in the direction of mechanical engineering. I recently decided, however, that I'd like to transfer into a design program where I can study design processes, theory, and related areas, either instead of or in addition to engineering courses. So far, I've been looking for programs in industrial design and product design as well as engineering programs that have a heavy design component. The problem is, most "design" programs are part of art schools or art departments. It's not that I'm opposed to taking art courses (in fact, I'd love to take art courses), but I have neither the portfolio I'd need to get into an art school, nor the interest or ability to survive in an art program.

One program I know I'm applying to is the Design, Innovation, and Society program at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. It's the ideal program (and my first choice), but I'm looking for some other backups. I'm aiming for the northeast U.S., if possible.

I'm wondering if anyone else has tried to approach a design field, such as product design, from a FIRST-ish background but without much artistic experience. Can you recommend any programs that really integrate the artistic and engineering aspects of design? Do any schools come to mind?

Thank you!
Dan