Industrial Design Programs in Aurora, Colorado

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Aurora, Colorado

Pursuing an Industrial Design degree in Aurora, Colorado opens pathways in designing products that shape everyday life. Industrial Design involves crafting functional and aesthetically appealing products, from user interfaces to consumer goods. Various education paths exist, including Bachelor of Science programs, certificate courses, and specialized workshops that focus on technical drawing, materials, manufacturing processes, and human-centered design.

About Aurora, Colorado

Aurora is a dynamic urban center in Arapahoe County with a rich cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods, and bustling districts. Known for its well-connected community and access to local resources, the city offers promising opportunities for creative professionals. For additional municipal information, visit the official Aurora website.

Industrial Design Programs in Aurora, Colorado

While Aurora may not host multiple Industrial Design schools directly within city limits, several nearby institutions offer robust Industrial Design programs. These schools allow students to pursue an Industrial Design degree while staying close to home.

  1. Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)

    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design, with specializations in furniture design, bicycle design, and medical device design.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located at 1500 W 12th Ave, Denver, CO 80204 in the heart of the Capitol Hill area.
    • Description: MSU Denver provides state-of-the-art labs featuring 3D printers and CNC machinery, along with partnerships with industry giants like Lockheed Martin. This school is approximately 15 miles from Aurora.
    • Program Page: Industrial Design at MSU Denver

  2. Front Range Community College – Aurora Campus

    • Program: Offers design courses that complement Industrial Design education, preparing students with foundational skills and practical experience.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in the heart of Aurora at 11850 E 16th Pl, Aurora, CO 80011.
    • Description: This campus provides a supportive learning environment with access to cutting-edge design technologies and a curriculum aligned with industry trends.

  3. Red Rocks Community College

    • Program: Features courses in technical drawing, visualization, and materials processing that support Industrial Design fundamentals.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Situated at 18501 Widescreen Blvd, Lakewood, CO 80229 in a vibrant neighborhood; approximately 10 miles from Aurora.
    • Description: Red Rocks Community College offers hands-on training in design and manufacturing processes, ensuring that students build a strong technical background.

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Aurora, Colorado

Aurora and its surrounding areas host a range of employers actively seeking innovative Industrial Designers. The region is home to manufacturing companies, design studios, and engineering firms that value skilled professionals.

  • Lockheed Martin

    • Role: This global aerospace and defense firm employs Industrial Designers to develop advanced equipment and solutions.
    • Neighborhood & Proximity: With facilities accessible from the Aurora Innovation District, Lockheed Martin is a key employer in the region.
    • Website: Lockheed Martin

  • Medtronic

    • Role: Known for its leadership in medical device design and manufacturing, Medtronic offers opportunities for Industrial Designers specializing in healthcare products.
    • Neighborhood & Proximity: Their operations are closely linked with the local manufacturing landscape and can be explored further via their career pages.
    • Website: Medtronic

In addition, local employers and small design studios offer internships and full-time roles that allow graduates to apply their technical expertise and creative skills. More detailed career outlooks for Industrial Designers are available on the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Prospective students must meet several prerequisites before enrolling in an Industrial Design program, including:

  • Educational Requirements: A minimum high school GPA of 2.0 is typically required.
  • Portfolio Submission: A portfolio of previous work is essential and is generally reviewed after the sophomore year for upper-division studio courses.
  • Standardized Exams: ACT/SAT scores are optional for many programs in 2024.
  • Application Deadlines: Fall admissions typically close on July 1, Spring on December 1, and Summer on May 1.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Colorado

Industrial Design degrees in Colorado adhere to strict academic and professional standards. Key requirements include:

  • Degree Options:

    • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees focusing on product design, prototyping, and user-centered methodologies.

  • Curriculum Requirements:

    • Core courses covering design studios (ID 1010–4999), technical drawing and visualization (ID 1220–3320), and materials and manufacturing processes (ID 2310–4310).
    • A mandatory senior-year internship with industry partners to provide real-world experience.

  • Accreditation:

    • Programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Verify accredited programs via NASAD’s official list.

  • Local and State Educational Resources:

    • Aurora Public Schools: Oversees K-12 education, including career and technical education pathways.
    • Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder (Education Division): Manages county-level educational resources and partnerships.
    • Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE): Regulates and funds post-secondary education in Colorado.
    • U.S. Department of Education: Oversees federal education policies and funding, with resources available via the National Center for Education Statistics.

Professional Certification Options

Industrial Designers seeking to enhance their professional credentials may pursue certification options such as the Certified Industrial Designer (CID) credential offered by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA). Certification can lead to improved networking opportunities, access to annual conferences, and an expanded job board. For more information on certification benefits and the application process, visit the IDSA website.

Get Started Today

The pathway to an Industrial Design career in Aurora, Colorado is filled with excellent educational and career opportunities. From strong academic prerequisites and state-specific degree requirements to diverse career prospects, the region provides a supportive environment for creative professionals. Take the first step toward designing the future by contacting a school today through their inquiry forms and begin your journey in Industrial Design.