Industrial Design Programs in Scottsdale, Arizona

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Scottsdale, Arizona

Pursuing an Industrial Design degree in Scottsdale, Arizona opens doors to creative and technical opportunities. Industrial Design combines art and engineering, focusing on product development, CAD modeling, and user-centered design. Various educational pathways, including Associate in Applied Science (AAS) programs and Certificates of Completion (CCL), can launch a successful career in the field.

About Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is known for its rich arts scene, lively neighborhoods such as Old Town Scottsdale, and a strong economy fueled by technology and design. The city’s official website, Scottsdale City Government, offers comprehensive resources on local education and workforce development initiatives. Prospective students will find that the local cultural landmarks and creative community make Scottsdale an inspiring environment for pursuing industrial design education.

Industrial Design Programs in Scottsdale, Arizona

While Scottsdale itself offers limited direct Industrial Design programs, several nearby institutions provide diverse options:

  1. Arizona State University – Tempe Campus

    • Program: Industrial Design (integrating art and engineering principles)
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in Tempe, approximately 12 miles from Scottsdale; the campus is situated in the bustling Tempe area.
    • Program Page: Industrial Design at ASU
    • Description: ASU offers comprehensive courses that address CAD, 3D printing, and product development alongside interdisciplinary collaboration.

  2. Mesa Community College

    • Program: AAS in Industrial Design Technology and related courses
    • Address & Neighborhood: 115 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85210, located in downtown Mesa; roughly 17 miles from Scottsdale.
    • Program Page: Mesa Community College Industrial Design Programs
    • Description: Known for hands-on training with modern design tools and software, Mesa Community College provides a strong foundation in both design theory and practical applications.

  3. Estrella Mountain Community College

    • Program: Certificate of Completion in Industrial Design fundamentals
    • Address & Neighborhood: 5750 W Thunderbird Rd, Avondale, AZ 85323, located in Avondale approximately 20 miles from Scottsdale.
    • Program Page: Estrella Mountain Community College
    • Description: This program offers focused training on technical aspects of industrial design, including SolidWorks and prototyping, ideal for those seeking to complement their creative skills with technological expertise.

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale and its surrounding areas boast a range of opportunities for industrial design graduates. Major employers include:

  • Raytheon Technologies

    • Website (Careers Page): Raytheon Technologies Careers
    • Description: With facilities in and around Scottsdale, Raytheon Technologies offers roles in product development, engineering design, and advanced manufacturing. It is recognized for fostering innovation in high-tech aerospace design.

  • Honeywell

    • Website (Careers Page): Honeywell Careers
    • Description: Honeywell provides employment opportunities in industrial design and engineering, focusing on integrated design solutions for aerospace, automotive, and consumer products. Its central offices serve critical roles in design and development and are located near the Phoenix metropolitan area, approximately 10 miles from Scottsdale.

For further information on job prospects in Industrial Design, readers can consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolment in Industrial Design programs include:

  • A minimum GPA of 2.0 for AAS programs.
  • Completion of foundational courses in drafting and mathematics.
  • While portfolio submissions are not always required, many competitive programs recommend showcasing creative projects.
  • Some programs may require entrance exams or interviews to assess design aptitude.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Arizona

In Scottsdale and the broader Maricopa County, state-specific requirements blend with general accreditation and curriculum standards. Key details include:

Local and State Regulatory Bodies

  • Scottsdale City Government
    • Oversees local education initiatives and workforce development. Contact: (480) 312-3111; Website.
  • Maricopa County Education Service Agency (MCESA)
    • Provides county-level educational support including career and technical education programs. Contact: (602) 506-3011; Website.
  • Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR)
    • Governs public universities and higher education policies. Contact: (602) 229-2500; Website.
  • U.S. Department of Education
    • Oversees national education policy and funding; Website.

State-Specific Degree Information

  • Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
    • Focuses on industrial design technology with courses covering CAD, 3D printing, and product development. Core courses include SolidWorks design (MPT151, MPT152) and 3D printing courses (MPT255). An internship or capstone project is typically required.
  • Certificate of Completion (CCL)
    • Provides foundational skills, covering software like SolidWorks and hands-on prototyping techniques.

Accreditation

  • Maricopa Community Colleges are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Prospective students should verify program-specific accreditation on the HLC website.

Professional Certification Options

Industrial designers can enhance their credentials through professional certifications. One notable organization is the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA):

  • IDSA
    • Purpose: Promotes industrial design education, professional development, and networking.
    • Website: IDSA
      Certification from professional bodies like IDSA is beneficial for demonstrating expertise and accessing exclusive industry resources.

Get Started Today

With numerous educational programs and career opportunities available, pursuing an Industrial Design degree in Scottsdale, Arizona is an exciting step toward a creative and fulfilling career. Explore the program options, confirm prerequisites, and reach out to schools to discover the best fit for your ambitions. Contact a school today through their inquiry forms to begin the journey toward an innovative future in industrial design.