Industrial Design Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Jacksonville, Florida

Pursuing an Industrial Design degree in Jacksonville, Florida involves exploring various educational and career pathways. Industrial Design focuses on the creation and development of products that optimize function, value, and appearance for the benefit of both user and manufacturer. Prospective students can choose from multiple education paths, including programs in architectural design, construction technology, and industrial engineering—all of which share foundational design principles and technical coursework. For further details on employment trends in the field, see the Industrial Designers job outlook page.

About Jacksonville

Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida by area and serves as a cultural and economic hub in Duval County. The city is known for its extensive park system, historic neighborhoods, and a thriving arts scene. The official website for Jacksonville offers additional information and community resources: City of Jacksonville Education and Community Development.

Industrial Design Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Currently, Jacksonville does not offer a dedicated Industrial Design degree; however, students may pursue related fields that provide a solid foundation in design principles. Programs that relate to Industrial Design include:

  • Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) – AS in Architectural Design and Construction Technology
    • Program Details: This program provides courses in AutoCAD, construction materials, and project management. It requires 66 credit hours and prepares students for technical design careers.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 8363 Sheridan Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32217, located in the Mandarin area.
    • Website: FSCJ

For comprehensive education in Industrial Design-related fields, students can also consider nearby institutions:

  • Florida State University (FSU) – BSIE with an Industrial Engineering Focus

    • Program Details: The BSIE program includes courses in ergonomics, operations research, and senior design projects using Six Sigma methodologies. Admission requires SAT/ACT scores (SAT: 1290+ or ACT: 28+), along with prerequisites in calculus, chemistry, and physics.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 600 S Bronough Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306, situated in Tallahassee’s College Town district.
    • Distance from Jacksonville: Approximately 165 miles.
    • Website: FSU

  • Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) – BFA in Industrial Design

    • Program Details: SCAD’s program emphasizes portfolio development and leverages SCADpro industry partnerships. Although not located in Jacksonville, the program is a strong option for students interested in a fine arts approach to Industrial Design.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 84 Price St, Savannah, GA 31401, located in downtown Savannah.
    • Distance from Jacksonville: Approximately 140 miles.
    • Website: SCAD

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Jacksonville

Jacksonville offers career opportunities with a variety of design and manufacturing companies. Major local employers include:

  • Jacobs Engineering Group

    • Overview: Jacobs Engineering has a significant presence in the region and offers opportunities in design, engineering, and project management.
    • Neighborhood: Their local office is typically located in one of Jacksonville’s key business districts.
    • Website: Jacobs Engineering

  • PCL Construction

    • Overview: PCL Construction is involved in large-scale commercial and industrial projects, providing roles for professionals with technical design and construction expertise.
    • Neighborhood: Offices are located in strategic business areas within Jacksonville.
    • Website: PCL Construction

Additionally, job seekers are encouraged to utilize local resources, such as the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce and Duval County Workforce Development, for career placement and networking opportunities.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in an Industrial Design-related program include:

  • A minimum age as specified by the institution.
  • A high school diploma or GED.
  • A portfolio showcasing creative and technical skills.
  • For some programs, standardized test scores (e.g., SAT/ACT) and prerequisite coursework in subjects such as calculus, chemistry, and physics may be required.
  • An interview or entrance exam is sometimes part of the admissions process.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Florida

In Jacksonville and across Florida, degree requirements for Industrial Design-related programs are aligned with state and national accreditation standards. Key regulatory bodies include:

State-Specific Degree Information

Florida offers various degrees related to Industrial Design, including:

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA):

    • Offered at SCAD with a focus on portfolio development and industry partnerships.
    • Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

  • Associate in Science (AS) at FSCJ:

    • In Architectural Design and Construction Technology, requiring 66 credit hours.
    • Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).
    • Admission does not require standardized test scores and requires a minimum 2.0 GPA.

  • Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering (BSIE) at FSU:

    • Includes comprehensive coursework in ergonomics, operations research, and design projects.
    • Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Professional Certification Options

For those seeking to validate their expertise, professional certifications are highly recommended. The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) offers the Certified Industrial Designer (CID) credential. Certification can lead to enhanced networking opportunities, access to career resources, and participation in design competitions. Additional details on membership benefits can be found at the IDSA website.

Get Started Today

The field of Industrial Design offers diverse and dynamic career opportunities, whether you are drawn to technical construction technology or innovative engineering design. Prospective students in Jacksonville are encouraged to explore their options by contacting local institutions, reviewing detailed curriculum requirements, and developing a robust portfolio. Begin your journey toward a successful career in design by reaching out and taking the next critical step in your education today.