F.I.T Toy Design Department - About our Students

The Toy Design Department receives more than 200 applications yearly for only 22 openings, from which we select a diverse international student body of varying ages, backgrounds and skills. Students come to the program with a minimum of a two-year degree-50 percent come with four-to-six-year degrees-in such related disciplines as industrial design, mechanical engineering, illustration, advertising, graphics, fashion, fine arts and architecture. Students must demonstrate the high level of maturity and responsibility required for work as professionals. Once in the program, they bond together to form an inspiring, dynamic team.

Good design plays a critical role in the creation of really great toys. It is the responsibility of the designer to visually educate people at an early age by providing children with well-designed objects. Children will ultimately be more receptive to well-designed product in all areas as they mature into adults.
- Chairperson Judy Ellis

The Toy Design Department emphasizes putting theory into practice. We encourage student interaction with industry professionals through our guest speaker program. Executives are invited from major manufacturers, retailers, advertisers, inventors and e-commerce to hold weekly talks with students so that they may experience the magnitude of the industry firsthand. Students interested in applying to the program should contact the Toy Design Department office, (212) 217-7133.