Industrial Design Programs in Glendale, Arizona

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Glendale, Arizona

Pursuing an Industrial Design degree in Glendale, Arizona opens the door to a world of creative problem-solving, technical skills, and innovative product design. Industrial Design combines art, engineering, and technology, offering various educational paths such as undergraduate, graduate, and associate degree programs. Whether you are interested in earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Industrial Design, a Master of Industrial Design (MID), or technical certificates, understanding your local education options is a crucial first step.

About Glendale, Arizona

Glendale, Arizona is a dynamic city known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling local business community. The City of Glendale maintains an official website at glendaleaz.com where residents can access information on local education initiatives, community events, and city services. Visitors and prospective students can explore notable neighborhoods, such as the Historic Downtown area, which reflects the city’s commitment to education and innovation.

Industrial Design Programs in Glendale, Arizona

In Glendale, Industrial Design education is accessible through several institutions. While some schools in Glendale may not offer a dedicated Industrial Design degree, students can take advantage of nearby programs that provide specialized courses and hands-on learning experiences.

  1. Arizona State University (ASU) – Tempe, Arizona

    • Program Details: ASU offers multiple Industrial Design degree options, including a BFA in Industrial Design, a Master of Industrial Design (MID), and an MS in Design. The programs emphasize transdisciplinary projects, the use of CAD software (such as SolidWorks), 3D printing, sustainability, and user-centered design.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in Tempe, AZ 85281, the campus sits in a busy urban neighborhood noted for its creative culture.
    • Distance: Approximately 20 miles from Glendale.
    • Website: https://www.asu.edu

  2. Maricopa Community Colleges – Mesa Campus, Arizona

    • Program Details: Students can pursue an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Design Technology or a Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Industrial Design Technology. These programs include courses on computer-aided design, 3D printing and prototyping, mathematics, drafting, and specializations in areas such as medical device design and aerospace manufacturing.
    • Address & Neighborhood: The Mesa campus is located at 3501 W Baseline Rd, Mesa, AZ 85202, in a neighborhood known for its educational and technological focus.
    • Distance: Approximately 15 miles from Glendale.
    • Website: https://www.maricopa.edu

  3. Glendale Community College (GCC) – Glendale, Arizona

    • Program Details: GCC offers a range of design and technology courses that support creative careers. Although GCC may not have a dedicated Industrial Design degree, its curriculum includes foundational courses in design principles and technical training that can prepare students for transfer or specialized study.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located at 222 S 45th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301, in the central neighborhood of Glendale.
    • Website: https://www.gccaz.edu

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Glendale, Arizona

Graduates with an Industrial Design degree can explore a variety of career opportunities in regional industries. Major employers in the area include aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing companies. For example:

  • Raytheon Technologies: A leader in the aerospace and defense sectors, Raytheon Technologies offers career opportunities in industrial design and product development. Explore current openings on their official careers page at https://www.rtx.com/Careers. Their offices often align with business districts in nearby urban centers.
  • Ford Motor Company: Known for its innovations in automotive engineering, Ford Motor Company regularly recruits Industrial Designers to develop next-generation products. Learn more about employment opportunities via their careers portal at https://corporate.ford.com/careers. Ford has operations in the region, providing a robust platform for design professionals.
  • For comprehensive job outlook information, including salary benchmarks for Industrial Designers, check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Admission to Industrial Design programs typically requires a strong academic background and artistic aptitude. Key prerequisites include:

  • Bachelor’s Programs: A portfolio review is required, with many programs expecting a minimum GPA of 3.0 for transfer students.
  • Master’s Programs: Submission of a professional portfolio is essential. GRE scores may be optional, and relevant professional experience is often valued.
  • AAS/CCL Programs: Applicants must demonstrate foundational knowledge in mathematics and drafting. Some programs may also require an entrance exam or interview to assess technical skills.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Arizona

The state of Arizona and local regulatory bodies provide a structured framework for Industrial Design education. Key institutions and organizations include:

  • City of Glendale Education Department

  • Maricopa County Education Service Agency (MCESA)

  • Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR)

    • Purpose: Governs public universities in Arizona, including Arizona State University.
    • Website: https://www.azregents.edu
    • Contact: (602) 229-2500

  • U.S. Department of Education

Types of Degrees Available

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Industrial Design: Focuses on design theory, practical application, and portfolio development.
  • Master of Industrial Design (MID): A studio-based program emphasizing transdisciplinary projects.
  • Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Design Technology: Offered through Maricopa Community Colleges with a focus on practical skills.
  • Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Industrial Design Technology: Provides technical training for immediate industry entry.

Admission and Curriculum Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Program: A portfolio review is required along with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Core courses cover CAD software (SolidWorks), 3D printing and prototyping, sustainability, and user-centered design.
  • Master’s Program: Includes optional GRE scores, professional portfolio submission, and opportunities for specialization.
  • AAS/CCL Programs: Emphasize prerequisites in math and drafting. Courses include core subjects such as CAD and 3D printing, with specializations in areas like medical device design and aerospace manufacturing.

Accreditation

  • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD): Accredits ASU’s programs. Verify accreditation via the NASAD accredited institutions list.
  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC): Serves as the regional accreditor for Maricopa Community Colleges.

Professional Certification Options

Industrial Designers can further validate their expertise through professional certification programs. Notable options include:

  • Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA):
    • Purpose: Provides advocacy, networking, and professional development opportunities.
    • Benefits: Access to conferences, job boards, and certification preparation.
    • Website: https://www.idsa.org
  • Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA): Often integrated into Maricopa Community Colleges’ programs, this certification confirms proficiency in CAD software and is highly valued by employers.

Get Started Today

The pathway to a successful career in Industrial Design begins with careful planning and research. With a variety of degree options, industry partnerships, and comprehensive preparatory courses available from local institutions, aspiring designers in Glendale, Arizona have access to a wealth of educational resources and career opportunities. Begin your journey by reaching out to your preferred school and exploring the forms provided on their websites to learn more about how you can take the next step in your Industrial Design education.