Industrial Design Programs in Tempe, Arizona

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Tempe, Arizona

Industrial Design is a creative field that merges art, engineering, and human-centered design to create products and systems for everyday life. This guide explores the process of earning an Industrial Design degree in Tempe, Arizona, while covering various education paths including Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design (BSD), Master of Industrial Design (MID), Master of Science in Design (MSD), and Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Design Technology. Prospective students will learn about local Industrial Design programs, prerequisites, curriculum requirements, and career opportunities in the field.

For additional career insights, visit the Industrial Designer Job Outlook page on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

About Tempe

Tempe, Arizona is a dynamic city known for its academic institutions and innovative spirit. Home to renowned organizations like Arizona State University (ASU), Tempe offers a blend of modern urban amenities and cultural landmarks. More information about the city can be found on the official Tempe website. The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods provide an inspiring backdrop for creative professionals and prospective students alike.

Industrial Design Programs in Tempe, Arizona

Several schools and programs offer Industrial Design courses and degrees in and near Tempe:

1. Arizona State University (ASU) – Tempe Campus

   • Address: 411 N Central Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
   • Neighborhood: Downtown Tempe
   • Programs Offered: Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design (BSD), Master of Industrial Design (MID), Master of Science in Design (MSD)
   • Details: ASU’s Herberger Institute emphasizes studio-based learning, transdisciplinary projects, and sustainability. Prospective students should be prepared to submit a portfolio and meet general university admission requirements such as MAT 170 (Precalculus).
   • Program Link: ASU Design School

2. Maricopa Community Colleges – Industrial Design Technology Program

   • Location: Based in the greater Phoenix area, approximately 10 miles from Tempe
   • Program Offered: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Design Technology
   • Details: The program emphasizes skills in CAD, 3D printing, and prototyping. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum 2.0 GPA.
   • Program Link: Maricopa Community Colleges Program

3. Mesa Community College – Industrial Design Courses

   • Address: 1715 S Val Vista Dr, Mesa, AZ 85204
   • Neighborhood: Central Mesa
   • Distance: Approximately 17 miles from Tempe
   • Details: While Mesa Community College primarily offers technical and design-related courses, its curriculum supports students seeking foundational knowledge applicable to Industrial Design. Interested students may explore course options to complement their education.
   • (Note: Mesa Community College is included as the nearest option for those seeking additional coursework in Industrial Design.)

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Tempe

Tempe and its neighboring regions are home to several major design firms, manufacturing companies, and tech startups that offer career opportunities in Industrial Design:

• Insight Enterprises

  • Address: One Insight Way, Tempe, AZ 85281
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Tempe
  • Details: A global technology solutions provider, Insight Enterprises offers employment opportunities for Industrial Designers focused on product innovation and user experience design.
  • Website: Insight Enterprises

• Honeywell

  • Details: A leader in technology and engineering, Honeywell maintains operations in the Phoenix area with roles for Industrial Designers in aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing sectors.
  • Employment Link: Honeywell Careers

• Intel

  • Details: Intel has significant operations in the greater Phoenix area, providing opportunities in design engineering and product development. Their facilities are noted for integrating cutting-edge technology with creative problem-solving.
  • Employment Link: Intel Jobs

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Prospective students should be aware of the common prerequisites for enrolling in Industrial Design programs:

• Education Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is required for AAS programs, while bachelor’s programs demand general university admission standards.
• Portfolio Submission: Many programs require a portfolio to demonstrate creative skills and previous design work.
• Minimum Age: Programs typically require applicants to be of legal college enrollment age.
• Entrance Exams and Interviews: Some programs may require standardized tests or interviews, particularly for advanced standing.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Arizona

In Tempe and the broader Maricopa County, Industrial Design degree requirements are influenced by several regulatory bodies:

• City of Tempe Education Department

  • Purpose: Oversees local educational initiatives and supports workforce development programs.
  • Website: Tempe Education Department
  • Contact: (480) 350-2000

• Maricopa County Education Service Agency (MCESA)

  • Purpose: Provides resources for K-12 and higher education, including career and technical education programs.
  • Website: Maricopa County
  • Contact: (602) 506-3333

• Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR)

  • Purpose: Governs Arizona’s public universities, including ASU.
  • Website: Arizona Board of Regents
  • Contact: (602) 229-2500

• Accrediting Organizations:

  • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD): Verify accreditation through the NASAD accredited institutions list.
  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC): Refer to the HLC directory for accredited institutions.

Types of Degrees and Program Details

• Bachelor’s Programs (BSD):

  • Core courses include design studios, materials science, and human-centered design.
  • Specializations may cover sustainability, user experience, and medical device design.
  • Internships offer hands-on industry experience in sectors such as aerospace and automotive.

• Graduate Programs (MID and MSD):

  • Emphasize advanced design practice, research-oriented projects, and sustainability.
  • Admission often requires a relevant bachelor’s degree and a comprehensive portfolio.

• Associate Programs (AAS):

  • Focuses on practical skills through courses in Computer-Aided Design (CAD), 3D printing, and prototyping.
  • Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Professional Certification Options

Professional certification can enhance career prospects in Industrial Design. The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) offers certifications that provide networking opportunities and recognition within the industry:

• Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA)
  • Purpose: Facilitates professional networking, industry certifications, and design advocacy.
  • Website: IDSA
  • Member Benefits: Access to conferences, job boards, and design challenges that further professional development.

Get Started Today

The journey to an Industrial Design degree in Tempe, Arizona offers multiple paths and excellent opportunities for growth. From hands-on coursework at established institutions like ASU and Maricopa Community Colleges to engaging with local industry leaders, prospective students have a wealth of resources at their disposal. Interested individuals are encouraged to research the programs that best align with their career goals and contact schools through the forms available on each institution’s website to begin the application process.