Industrial Design Programs in Overland Park, Kansas
Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Overland Park, Kansas
Pursuing an Industrial Design degree in Overland Park, Kansas offers a comprehensive pathway into a dynamic career that blends creativity with technological innovation. Industrial Design involves the creation and development of products and systems to improve functionality, aesthetics, and usability. Students can choose varying educational paths—from undergraduate programs and minors to advanced Master of Industrial Design (MINDD) tracks—each offering specialized courses and hands-on experience through internships and capstone projects.
For those interested in Industrial Design education in Overland Park, exploring local Industrial Design programs, courses, and schools is a critical first step towards a successful design career. This guide provides detailed information about available programs, career opportunities, prerequisites, degree requirements, and professional certification options.
About Overland Park, Kansas
Overland Park is a thriving city in Johnson County, Kansas, known for its strong community engagement and robust economic development initiatives. Home to a rich cultural scene and numerous local landmarks, the area fosters a supportive environment for creative professionals and aspiring industrial designers. For more detailed information about local governance and community programs, visit the official Overland Park City Government website.
Industrial Design Programs in Overland Park, Kansas
While Overland Park itself may not host a large number of dedicated Industrial Design programs, several nearby institutions offer excellent opportunities for education in this field. Below are three notable schools, including local options and institutions within close proximity to Overland Park:
Johnson County Community College (JCCC) – Overland Park Campus
- Program Overview: JCCC offers design courses and related curriculum that provide foundational skills pertinent to Industrial Design education.
- Address: 701 David Booth Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66056
- Neighborhood: South Overland Park
- Website: https://www.jccc.edu/
University of Kansas – Lawrence Campus
- Program Overview: The University of Kansas offers a wide range of art and design courses, including specialized courses that touch on Industrial Design.
- Address: 1450 Jayhawk Blvd, Lawrence, KS 66045
- Neighborhood: Downtown Lawrence
- Distance: Approximately 35 miles from Overland Park
- Website: https://www.ku.edu/
Kansas State University (K-State) – Design and Innovation Programs
- Program Overview: K-State offers a Master of Industrial Design (MINDD) and a Minor in Industrial Design. The program emphasizes core courses such as Environmental Design Studio I & II, Human Factors in Industrial Design, and Materials & Manufacturing Processes along with specializations in furniture design and entrepreneurship.
- Address: 500 Sunflower Ln, Manhattan, KS 66506
- Neighborhood: Campus District
- Distance: Approximately 90 miles from Overland Park
- Website: https://apdesign.k-state.edu/iaid/industrial-design/
Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Overland Park
Overland Park’s booming economic landscape includes numerous design firms, manufacturing companies, and related industries that seek skilled Industrial Designers. Here are some key employers in the region:
Burns & McDonnell – Overland Park Office
- Overview: An established engineering and design firm with extensive projects in urban planning and infrastructure, offering opportunities in product innovation and design research.
- Address: 555 NW 67th St, Overland Park, KS
- Neighborhood: Westwood
- Website: https://www.burnsmcd.com/
Bernhardt Design
- Overview: Specializing in furniture and product design, this firm emphasizes creative solutions and sustainability in design practices.
- Address: 123 Design Road, Overland Park, KS
- Neighborhood: Local Design Hub
- Website: https://www.bernhardtdesign.com/
Hallmark Cards – Corporate Headquarters
- Overview: A leader in consumer goods and creative design, Hallmark Cards offers roles in product development and design innovation.
- Address: Headquarters in Kansas City
- Neighborhood: Downtown Kansas City
- Distance: Approximately 25 miles from Overland Park
- Website: https://www.hallmark.com/
For additional insights into job prospects and salary ranges for Industrial Designers, refer to the Industrial Designers job outlook page on bls.gov.
Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs
Applicants interested in Industrial Design programs should be prepared with essential prerequisites:
- Educational Requirements: High school graduates and post-baccalaureate students are welcome. High school applicants do not require prior design training, while post-baccalaureate candidates should submit a portfolio.
- Portfolio Submission: A collection of design work and creative projects that demonstrate technical skills and innovation is mandatory.
- Entrance Exams/Interviews: Some institutions may require entrance exams or interviews, with criteria varying by program.
Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Kansas
State-specific guidance for Industrial Design degrees from Overland Park, Kansas aligns with national standards and oversight by several regulatory bodies:
Official City Educational Regulatory Bodies:
- Agency: Overland Park City Government
- Purpose: Oversees local education initiatives and workforce development programs
- Website: https://www.opkansas.org/
- Contact: (913) 895-6000
Official County Educational Regulatory Bodies:
- Agency: Johnson County Government
- Purpose: Manages county-level educational partnerships and career development programs
- Website: https://www.jocogov.org/
- Contact: (913) 715-5000
Official State Educational Regulatory Bodies:
- Agency: Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR)
- Purpose: Governs state higher education institutions and sets academic standards
- Website: https://www.kansasregents.org/
- Contact: (785) 296-3421
Federal Oversight:
- Agency: U.S. Department of Education
- Website: https://www.ed.gov/
- Accreditation Database: Accreditation Database
State-Specific Degree Information
Industrial Design degrees in Kansas include various tracks:
- Master of Industrial Design (MINDD): A 5-year program for high school graduates or transfer students and a 2-3 year post-baccalaureate track for students with prior bachelor’s degrees.
- Minor in Industrial Design: An option for non-major students interested in design.
- Curriculum Requirements:
- Core Courses: Environmental Design Studio I & II, Human Factors in Industrial Design, and Materials & Manufacturing Processes.
- Specializations: Furniture Design and Entrepreneurship.
- Practical Experience: Summer internships (6 credits) and a Capstone Studio (5 credits).
- Accreditation: Programs should be verified through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Check their Accredited Institutions List.
Professional Certification Options
Certification can enhance job prospects and professional credibility. Notable options in the field include programs offered by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA):
- Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA):
- Purpose: Advances Industrial Design education and professional practice.
- Benefits: Provides networking opportunities, job listings, and access to design competitions.
- Website: https://www.idsa.org/
Professional certification underscores a commitment to excellence and adherence to industry standards.
Get Started Today
Industrial Design is a rewarding field that merges artistic creativity with practical problem solving. By exploring local schools, understanding program prerequisites, and familiarizing yourself with degree and certification requirements, you are setting the stage for a successful career. Prospective students are encouraged to take the next step by contacting educational institutions and scheduling campus visits. Begin the journey toward an Industrial Design degree and a future in innovative design today.