Industrial Design Programs in Glendale, California

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Glendale, California

Industrial Design is a dynamic field that combines creativity, engineering, and functionality to transform ideas into tangible products. Pursuing an Industrial Design degree opens diverse career pathways and emphasizes practical skills such as CAD software proficiency, prototyping, and human-centered design. Various educational paths are available, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificate programs that focus on technical and design-specific content.

About Glendale, California

Glendale, California, is a bustling city located in Los Angeles County. Known for its rich cultural heritage, well-established neighborhoods, and landmarks like the Americana at Brand, Glendale offers a supportive backdrop for aspiring industrial designers. For more information about the city and its community services, visit the official Glendale website.

Industrial Design Programs in Glendale, California

Although Glendale does not host a dedicated Industrial Design program, nearby institutions offer accredited pathways and related courses. Residents can leverage local opportunities while also considering schools within a short driving distance.

  • Glendale Community College

    • Program Focus: Certificates in Architectural CAD and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM).
    • Address: 515 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA (located in downtown Glendale).
    • Website: Glendale Community College
    • Overview: As a community college overseen by the Glendale Community College District, it provides a solid foundation in design-oriented technical skills with affordable tuition rates.

  • California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

    • Program Focus: Accredited Industrial Design pathways through articulation agreements with Glendale Community College.
    • Address: 3801 West Cal Poly Dr, Pomona, CA (approximately 30 miles from Glendale).
    • Program Page: CSU Pomona – Industrial Design
    • Overview: This institution offers a comprehensive approach through its Bachelor’s programs with emphasis on sustainable design and robust industry connections.

  • ArtCenter College of Design

    • Program Focus: Master of Science in Industrial Design and Dual MS/MBA in Innovation Systems Design.
    • Address: 2121 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA (roughly 10 miles from Glendale, located in Pasadena’s central neighborhood).
    • Program Page: ArtCenter College of Design
    • Overview: Renowned for its rigorous curriculum and collaborative projects with leading tech firms, ArtCenter College provides advanced study and specialization opportunities.

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Glendale, California

Glendale’s location within Los Angeles County affords graduates access to numerous industrial design and manufacturing career opportunities in the surrounding region. Employers in the greater Los Angeles area value creative problem-solving and technical design expertise.

  • The Walt Disney Company

    • Address: 500 S. Buena Vista St, Burbank, CA (approximately 12 miles from Glendale, in the Burbank neighborhood).
    • Employment Opportunities: Visit the Disney Careers page to explore available design and creative roles.
    • Overview: With a longstanding reputation in entertainment and product innovation, Disney offers roles that combine artistic vision with technological implementation.

  • Northrop Grumman

    • Address: Offices in the West Hills area of Los Angeles County (around 20 miles from Glendale).
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore openings on the Northrop Grumman official website.
    • Overview: Known for its advanced engineering and design projects, Northrop Grumman provides industrial designers with opportunities to work on large-scale, innovative projects.

  • Google (Los Angeles Office)

    • Address: Located in Venice, CA (approximately 22 miles from Glendale).
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore Google Careers for roles that blend design, user experience, and technology.
    • Overview: Offering a creative and fast-paced environment, Google’s Los Angeles office embraces innovative design solutions and continually seeks talent in industrial design and product development.

For national job outlook information on Industrial Designers, please visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Industrial Design programs typically require prospective students to meet several prerequisite criteria. These may include:

  • Educational Background: Completion of prerequisite high school courses, especially in mathematics and art.
  • Standardized Testing: Submission of SAT/ACT scores for undergraduate programs; GRE scores may be required for certain graduate programs.
  • Portfolio Requirements: Many institutions request a portfolio that demonstrates artistic ability and technical skills.
  • Academic Performance: A minimum GPA requirement, such as a GPA of 2.5 for CSU system schools, is often expected.
  • Entrance Exams or Interviews: Some programs may also require entrance exams or interviews as part of the admissions process.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in California

California offers diverse pathways for obtaining an Industrial Design degree. The state regulates education through several official bodies:

  • Glendale Community College District – Oversees postsecondary education programs in design and engineering. (Glendale Community College; Phone: (818) 240-1000; Email: [email protected])
  • Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) – Manages K-12 and adult education programs, including career technical education pathways. (LACOE; Phone: (562) 922-6900; Email: [email protected])
  • California Department of Education (CDE) – Regulates K-12 and higher education statewide. (CDE; Phone: (916) 319-0800; Email: [email protected])
  • U.S. Department of Education – Sets national education standards and financial aid programs. (US Department of Education)

Types of Degrees Available

  • Bachelor’s Degree: Often facilitated through pathways such as the articulation agreements between Glendale Community College and institutions like California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
  • Master’s Degree: Programs include the MS in Industrial Design at ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena.
  • Certificates: Glendale Community College offers certificates in Architectural CAD and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM).

Admission and Curriculum Requirements

  • Undergraduate Programs: Require SAT/ACT scores, a minimum GPA (typically ≥ 2.5), and prerequisite courses in math and art.
  • Graduate Programs: Often require a strong portfolio, and in some cases, GRE scores.
  • Core Curriculum: Courses focus on design principles, prototyping, CAD software, and human-centered design. Specializations may include strategic innovation and sustainable design.

For additional state-level educational opportunities and transfer pathways, visit the California State University (CSU) System.

Professional Certification Options

Professional certification can enhance a designer’s credentials and career prospects. Organizations such as the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) advocate for academic excellence and professional development in industrial design. Certification offers advantages like networking opportunities, job boards, and design competitions that can further validate an individual’s expertise in the field.

Get Started Today

Glendale offers numerous educational resources and career opportunities for those interested in Industrial Design. Prospective students are encouraged to contact a school directly through the inquiry forms provided on their respective websites and to explore the various pathways available for degree completion. With a comprehensive education and practical experience, emerging designers can confidently navigate a rapidly evolving industry and launch rewarding careers.