Industrial Design Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Honolulu, Hawaii

Pursuing an Industrial Design degree in Honolulu, Hawaii opens doors to a world of creative problem-solving and innovative design solutions. Industrial Design focuses on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing products, blending art with engineering principles. Whether you are interested in product design, furniture design, or sustainable design, various educational paths are available through undergraduate and graduate programs. This guide explores the diverse Industrial Design education options, including degree programs and courses, along with essential details on admissions, career prospects, and professional certification.

About Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is a vibrant urban center located on the island of Oʻahu. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and bustling urban neighborhoods such as Waikiki and Kakaʻako. For more information about the city and its resources, visit the official Honolulu website.

Industrial Design Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu offers several opportunities for aspiring Industrial Designers. Below is a list of local institutions providing Industrial Design programs and courses:

  1. Chaminade University of Honolulu

    • Program: BFA in Environmental + Interior Design
    • Address: 1650 Poon St, Honolulu, HI 96813
    • Neighborhood: Located in the Kaimuki area
    • Description: Chaminade University emphasizes experiential learning with state-of-the-art design studios, including facilities for 3D printing and software proficiency training. Explore more about the program on the Chaminade University website.

  2. Brigham Young University–Hawaii

    • Program: General Design Courses (While not a dedicated Industrial Design program, these courses serve as a foundational introduction to design principles.)
    • Address: 51-250 Farrington Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
    • Neighborhood: Laie (approximately 30 miles north of Honolulu)
    • Description: BYU–Hawaii provides a diverse educational environment with a global student body and cultural exchange opportunities. For further details on design courses, visit the BYU–Hawaii official website.

  3. University of Hawaii at Manoa

    • Program: Industrial Design Courses and electives integrated within its art and design curriculum
    • Address: 2500 Campus Road, Honolulu, HI 96822
    • Neighborhood: Manoa Valley, a scenic and historic district of Honolulu
    • Description: Although the University of Hawaii at Manoa does not offer a standalone Industrial Design degree, its comprehensive art programs include specialized courses in design that prepare students for professional practice. Visit the University of Hawaii at Manoa website for program details.

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu is home to several design firms and companies that value innovative Industrial Design expertise. Leading employers include:

  • Group 70 International
    • Type: Architecture and Design Firm
    • Neighborhood: Based in the Kakaʻako district of Honolulu
    • Description: Group 70 International focuses on cutting-edge design solutions for both local and international projects. Visit their official website to learn about current employment opportunities.

Alongside these organizations, numerous manufacturing and construction companies in Honolulu also seek skilled Industrial Designers. For detailed career insights and job prospects, refer to the Industrial Designers Job Outlook page on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Prospective students should expect the following prerequisites for enrolling in Industrial Design programs:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • A portfolio showcasing creative work and design projects
  • Completion of specific preparatory courses in art, technology, or mathematics
  • Standardized test scores (e.g., SAT), where applicable
  • Performance in an interview or entrance exam in certain cases

These requirements ensure that candidates possess a blend of technical skills and creative aptitude needed for success in Industrial Design.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Hawaii

In Honolulu and the greater state of Hawaii, degree requirements adhere to both national and state accreditation standards. Key details include:

  • Degree Types:

    • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Environmental + Interior Design: Emphasizes sustainable design, universal accessibility, and practical studio work.
    • Master of Science in Industrial Design: Focuses on design theory, advanced 3D modeling, and comprehensive project-based learning.
    • Ph.D. in Product-Service-Systems Design: Concentrates on design management, innovation, and advanced research.

  • Admission Requirements for the BFA Program at Chaminade University:

    • SAT Range: 960-1140
    • Portfolio Submission: Required for upper-division studios
    • Course Prerequisites: AR 201, EID 200, and EID 202

  • Curriculum Requirements:

    • Core courses cover design history, research methods, and sustainability
    • Practical training includes software proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and the Adobe Suite
    • Specializations such as furniture design, lighting design, and universal design are available
    • Internship opportunities (e.g., EID 415 Professional Practice Internship) and senior studio projects in residential/commercial design enhance practical experience

  • Accreditation:

    • Programs should be verified with the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). Check accredited programs on the CIDA Accredited Programs page.

Additionally, the following regulatory agencies provide oversight and additional resources:

Professional Certification Options

Industrial Designers can enhance their credentials through professional certifications. Notable certification options include:

  • Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA):

    • Advocates for Industrial Design education and career development
    • Provides networking opportunities, conferences, and job listings
    • Visit the IDSA website for further details.

  • Hawaii Chapter of IDSA:

    • Focuses on local networking and design workshops in Honolulu
    • For more information, refer to the Hawaii Chapter of IDSA.

Certification, such as preparing for the NCIDQ Exam through BFA programs, is beneficial in validating professional expertise and advancing career prospects.

Get Started Today

The comprehensive pathway to an Industrial Design degree in Honolulu begins with exploring the available programs, understanding the admission requirements, and connecting with industry professionals. With a focus on innovative design and practical experience, the local and regional opportunities provide a strong foundation for a successful career. Prospective students are encouraged to contact a school today through the forms provided on their respective pages and take the first step towards a rewarding future in Industrial Design.