Industrial Design Programs in Gilbert, Arizona

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Gilbert, Arizona

Industrial Design is a dynamic field centered on shaping and improving everyday products through creative and functional design. Earning an Industrial Design degree in Gilbert, Arizona, involves exploring various educational pathways—from Bachelor of Science (BSD) and Master of Industrial Design (MID) programs to Associate degrees in Industrial Design Technology. This guide details the educational journey, highlighting courses, prerequisites, and state-specific requirements to help prospective students navigate the process successfully.

About Gilbert, Arizona

Gilbert, Arizona, is a rapidly expanding community known for its quality education and strong local economy. Located in Maricopa County, Gilbert offers a blend of suburban comfort and dynamic opportunities. For more official city information, visit the Gilbert Economic Development website. The town is home to several key landmarks and neighborhoods, making it an appealing location for aspiring industrial designers.

Industrial Design Programs in Gilbert, Arizona

Although Gilbert does not host a large number of dedicated Industrial Design programs, several nearby institutions offer robust courses and degree options within the industrial design field. Below are three key programs:

  1. Chandler-Gilbert Community College

    • Program: Part of the Maricopa Community Colleges offering courses in industrial design technology, emphasizing CAD, 3D printing, and prototyping.
    • Address: 340 S Dobson Rd, Chandler, AZ 85225 (located in downtown Chandler, approximately 5 miles from Gilbert)
    • Website: Chandler-Gilbert Community College

  2. Arizona State University (ASU)

    • Program: Offers a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design (BSD) as well as advanced degrees such as the Master of Industrial Design (MID) and Master of Science in Design (MSD). The studio-based curriculum includes human-centered design principles, technical courses in CAD (SolidWorks) and 3D printing, and required internship experiences.
    • Address: 200 E University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281 (situated in the Tempe neighborhood, approximately 20 miles from Gilbert)
    • Website: Arizona State University

  3. Mesa Community College

    • Program: As part of the Maricopa Community Colleges system, Mesa Community College provides an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Design Technology. The curriculum underscores technical skills and practical design experience.
    • Address: 1750 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202 (located in downtown Mesa, approximately 15 miles from Gilbert)
    • Website: Mesa Community College

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Gilbert, Arizona

Graduates holding Industrial Design degrees can explore a range of opportunities in design-oriented firms and manufacturing companies around Gilbert. Prominent local employers include:

  • Raytheon Technologies

    • A major aerospace firm offering roles in product design and innovation. Raytheon’s offices, located in the greater Chandler area (approximately 5 miles from Gilbert), provide excellent career opportunities.
    • Website: Raytheon Technologies Careers

  • Honeywell

    • Known for its advanced technology solutions, Honeywell offers positions in industrial design to drive innovation in product development. Its facilities in the Tempe area (approximately 20 miles away) often recruit design professionals.
    • Website: Honeywell Careers

  • Intel

    • As a leader in technology, Intel employs industrial designers to create user-friendly, efficient products. With a presence in the greater Phoenix-Chandler region, design professionals can find diverse opportunities.
    • Website: Intel Careers

For additional career insights, consult the job outlook details for Industrial Designers on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Admission to Industrial Design programs typically requires:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Submission of a portfolio demonstrating creativity and technical skills.
  • For Bachelor’s programs, a minimum GPA of 3.0 is common; standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) may be optional, as seen in ASU’s guidelines for 2024.
  • For Master’s programs, GRE scores may be requested, though they are optional for some programs, alongside a prior degree in a relevant field or a detailed portfolio review.
  • Some institutions may require an entrance interview or additional assessments to evaluate design aptitude.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Arizona

In Arizona, Industrial Design degrees are offered at various levels with specific state and national accreditation standards. Below are the key details:

Types of Degrees Available

  • Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design (BSD): Offered at Arizona State University’s Herberger Institute, where students engage in studio-based learning and industry internships.
  • Master of Industrial Design (MID): Focused on transdisciplinary projects and applying user-centered design, with optional GRE scores.
  • Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Design Technology: Provided by Maricopa Community Colleges, emphasizing CAD, 3D printing, and prototyping skills.

Admission and Curriculum Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Program:
    • Requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, a compelling portfolio, and optional SAT/ACT scores for the 2024 cycle.
  • Master’s Program:
    • May request GRE scores, alongside a review of the applicant’s portfolio or a prior related degree.
  • Curriculum Details:
    • Core courses include studio work in design principles, human-centered design, sustainability, and technical training in CAD (SolidWorks) and 3D printing.
    • Internship experiences are integral for practical exposure.

Accreditation and Regulatory Bodies

  • Accrediting Bodies:
    • The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) accredits programs like ASU’s. Verify accreditation details via the NASAD Accreditation Directory.
    • Maricopa Community Colleges are accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).
  • Regulatory and Oversight Organizations:
    • Gilbert Public Schools: Oversees K-12 education in Gilbert. (Gilbert Public Schools, Phone: (480) 892-2242)
    • Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD): Manages community colleges including industrial design programs. (MCCCD, Phone: (480) 731-8000)
    • Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR): Governs public universities in Arizona. (ABOR, Phone: (602) 229-2500)
    • U.S. Department of Education: Sets national education policies. (U.S. Department of Education, with resources available via the Accreditation Database)

Professional Certification Options

Professional certifications can enhance career prospects in industrial design. The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) offers the Certified Industrial Designer (CID) credential, which provides access to exclusive job listings, conferences, and networking opportunities. Explore more about certification and professional development on the IDSA website.

Get Started Today

This comprehensive guide has outlined the essentials for earning an Industrial Design degree in Gilbert, Arizona, from program options and prerequisites to state-specific degree requirements and career opportunities. Aspiring industrial designers are encouraged to reach out to their chosen schools and begin preparing their portfolios. The path to a rewarding career in Industrial Design starts with taking the first step—contact a school today to learn more about your options.