Industrial Design Programs in Kansas

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Kansas

Industrial Design is a specialized field that integrates creativity with technical knowledge to solve design challenges and develop innovative products. This guide provides a comprehensive overview for those considering an Industrial Design Degree in Kansas, covering various education paths, training options, and program choices available in the state.

Why Study Industrial Design in Kansas

Kansas offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm and a robust educational system, making it an excellent destination for Industrial Design education. For official state information, visit the Kansas state website. In Kansas, Industrial Design professionals enjoy competitive starting salaries ranging from $50,000 to $65,000 per year, with experienced designers earning between $80,000 and $110,000 annually. The job market is promising, with a projected 5% growth for industrial design jobs from 2024 to 2034. For additional national employment statistics, consult the Industrial Designers job outlook on BLS.gov.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Prospective students should be prepared to meet a range of prerequisites before enrolling in an Industrial Design program. Common requirements include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Submission of a dedicated portfolio showcasing creative and technical skills (e.g., 15-20 pieces as required by the University of Kansas).
  • Standardized test scores such as the GRE, particularly for graduate programs like the one at Kansas State University.
  • A minimum GPA (for instance, Kansas State University typically requires a 3.0 GPA).
  • Interviews may be required as part of the admission process.

Typical Program Curriculum

Industrial Design curricula combine theoretical study with practical application to ensure students are ready for the professional world. Programs typically cover:

  • Fundamentals of design theory and visual communication.
  • Courses in computer-aided design and advanced fabrication techniques.
  • Hands-on project work focused on product development and portfolio creation.
  • Specializations in areas such as furniture design, industrial product development, and sustainable design.
  • Bachelor programs, like the BFA in Design: Industrial Design at the University of Kansas, usually span 48 months (124 credits), while Master’s programs can range from 2-5 years depending on prior coursework.

Industrial Design Programs in Kansas

University of Kansas (Lawrence, KS)

  • Program: BFA in Design: Industrial Design (48 months, 124 credits)
  • Features: Emphasizes hands-on projects, portfolio development, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • Tuition: Approximately $27,858 per year (2024).
  • Portfolio Requirement: Submission of 15-20 design pieces is mandatory.
  • Location: Situated in Lawrence, a city known for its vibrant college community and rich cultural scene.
  • More Information: Visit the University of Kansas official website.

Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS)

  • Program: Master of Industrial Design
  • Features: Offers a robust curriculum including courses in furniture design, advanced studio work, and global sustainability concepts. The program is tailored with a 5-year option for undergraduates and 2-3 years for post-baccalaureates.
  • Admission Requirements: GRE scores and a minimum GPA of 3.0 are required.
  • Location: Based in Manhattan, which offers a supportive community and a growing art scene.
  • More Information: Visit the Kansas State University official website.

Wichita State University (Wichita, KS)

  • Program: Master’s in Industrial and Product Design
  • Features: Focuses on practical experience in product development and has established industry partnerships. In 2022, the program graduated 9 students, signifying a close-knit learning environment.
  • Location: Located in Wichita, a city known for its aerospace and manufacturing industries.
  • More Information: Visit the Wichita State University official website.

Industrial Design Employment Opportunities in Kansas

Kansas is home to several major companies with demand for skilled Industrial Designers, offering promising career opportunities. Notable employers include:

  • Textron Aviation (Wichita, KS)

    • A leader in aerospace design and manufacturing, Textron Aviation offers numerous employment opportunities for Industrial Designers.
    • Careers Page: Check out their opportunities on the Textron Aviation careers page.

  • Spirit AeroSystems (Wichita, KS)

    • Specializing in aerospace design and advanced engineering, Spirit AeroSystems consistently seeks talents in industrial design to innovate and improve products.
    • Careers Page: Explore their openings via the Spirit AeroSystems careers page.

These companies frequently engage in projects across consumer goods, furniture manufacturing, and aerospace engineering, reflecting the diverse industry scope available to designers in Kansas.

Professional Organizations and Networking

For professional development and networking, joining industry organizations is critical. One key organization is the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), which offers access to conferences, job boards, and competitive design events. Additionally, state-level organizations like the Kansas Board of Regents and local career centers, such as the Kansas State University Career Center, provide valuable networking and professional development resources.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of Industrial Design programs in Kansas can vary significantly. For example, the University of Kansas charges approximately $27,858 per year for the BFA in Design: Industrial Design. Financial aid options include federal student aid overseen by the U.S. Department of Education and additional resources such as scholarships and grant opportunities accessible through the U.S. Department of Education’s accreditation page. Prospective students should also explore state-specific resources offered by the Kansas Board of Regents, which oversee public higher education in Kansas.

Career Advancement and Further Education

Opportunities for career advancement in Industrial Design extend beyond initial degree programs. Graduates can pursue master’s degrees or specialized certifications to enhance their qualifications. Further education and professional development are accessible through accredited programs by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and regional oversight from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)—which can even be contacted at (312) 263-0456 for more details. In addition, state resources provided by the Kansas Board of Regents offer insight into further academic pursuits and career development opportunities.

Get Started Today

The path to earning an Industrial Design Degree in Kansas is filled with abundant opportunities, from hands-on practical training to exposure to leading design firms. Prospective students are encouraged to research programs, prepare strong portfolios, and explore financial aid options to make an informed decision. Contact your preferred school today through their official contact forms and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in Industrial Design.