Industrial Design Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Industrial Design is a dynamic field that combines creativity, engineering, and problem-solving to develop innovative products and systems. Prospective students can choose from various Industrial Design education paths, including undergraduate associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and advanced master’s programs. This guide explores the process of earning an Industrial Design degree in Tulsa, Oklahoma, covering the range of available courses, schools, and the essential steps to start a career in this multifaceted field.

About Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa, Oklahoma is a bustling city known for its rich cultural heritage, eclectic neighborhoods, and commitment to arts and innovation. With landmarks like the Gathering Place and the Philbrook Museum of Art, Tulsa offers a unique blend of modern urban amenities and historical charm. For more official city details, visit the City of Tulsa website.

Industrial Design Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa and its nearby regions feature several reputable institutions offering Industrial Design courses and degree programs.

  1. Tulsa Community College (TCC)

    • Program: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Drafting & Design Engineering Technology
    • Description: TCC’s program focuses on developing practical skills in CAD software training, 3D modeling, and engineering drawing. The curriculum emphasizes team projects and hands-on experience to prepare students for certification examinations.
    • Address: 100 S. Cincinnati Ave, Tulsa, OK 74119 (Downtown Tulsa)
    • Website: Tulsa Community College Drafting & Design Engineering Technology Program

  2. University of Oklahoma – Tulsa

    • Program: Master of Architecture – Urban Design
    • Description: This graduate program integrates architectural theory with urban design principles to address contemporary design challenges. The program is ideal for those seeking advanced education that bridges architecture and industrial design.
    • Address: Located within Tulsa’s educational district; specific neighborhood details are available upon inquiry.
    • Website: University of Oklahoma – Tulsa

  3. Oklahoma State University

    • Program: Master of Science in Design, Housing, and Merchandising
    • Description: Although not located directly in Tulsa, Oklahoma State University offers a comprehensive graduate program that emphasizes design management, product development, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This campus is approximately 110 miles from Tulsa.
    • Address: Stillwater, OK (Approximately 110 miles from Tulsa)
    • Website: Oklahoma State University

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa’s diverse economy supports a range of career opportunities for Industrial Design graduates. Local employers span design consultancies, manufacturing companies, and engineering firms that demand innovative design solutions.

  • Weaver Industries

    • Description: An established engineering firm located in the Greenwood neighborhood, Weaver Industries offers roles that combine technical engineering expertise with creative design solutions.
    • Website: Weaver Industries

  • Tulsa Design Group

    • Description: Situated in downtown Tulsa, Tulsa Design Group is a consultancy renowned for its work in product development and design innovation.
    • Website: Tulsa Design Group

  • Innovative Design Solutions, Inc.

    • Description: Located in the midtown area, this firm specializes in product development and industrial design, providing career opportunities with a focus on modern design techniques.
    • Website: Innovative Design Solutions, Inc.

For additional career insights and job prospects for Industrial Designers, please refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers Job Outlook.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Applicants interested in Industrial Design programs typically must meet several prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or GED is required.
  • A portfolio showcasing creative and technical skills is important, although the A.A.S. program at TCC does not require a portfolio.
  • Minimum GPA requirements may apply; for example, Tulsa Community College requires a minimum GPA of 2.5 for transfer students.
  • Some programs may require entrance exams or interviews to assess technical aptitude and creativity.
  • Applicants are generally expected to have a foundational knowledge of design principles and a passion for innovation.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Oklahoma

The requirements for earning an Industrial Design degree in Oklahoma are guided by multiple regulatory bodies:

  • Local and County Oversight

    • Tulsa City Government Education Department oversees local educational initiatives and policies.
    • Tulsa County Education Board manages county-level educational programs and partnerships.

  • State and Federal Oversight

    • Oklahoma State Board of Regents for Higher Education governs degree program standards for state colleges and universities. Visit their website here or contact them at (405) 225-9100 or [email protected].
    • The U.S. Department of Education oversees national education policies. Their resources include Title IV accreditation verification tools, available here.

Degree Programs and Curriculum Highlights

  • Associate Degree (TCC)

    • Focuses on CAD software training, 3D modeling, and engineering drawing.
    • Emphasizes practical projects and team collaboration.

  • Graduate Degrees

    • Master of Architecture – Urban Design (University of Oklahoma – Tulsa)
      • Integrates architectural theory with urban design.
    • Master of Science in Design, Housing, and Merchandising (Oklahoma State University)
      • Focuses on design management and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Accreditation Information

Programs in Industrial Design often receive accreditation from:

  • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
  • American Design Drafting Association (ADDA)

Prospective students should verify current accreditation status by checking the NASAD accredited institutions list.

Professional Certification Options

Professional certifications help to validate expertise and enhance a designer’s credentials. The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) is a key organization offering certifications, networking opportunities, and professional development resources. Benefits of certification include:

  • Access to specialized conferences
  • Exposure to leading industry job boards
  • Opportunities to participate in design competitions

Learn more about certification and membership benefits on the IDSA website. Additionally, pursuing certifications such as the ADDA National Examination can further enhance professional credibility, particularly for those involved in drafting and technical design.

Get Started Today

The journey to an Industrial Design degree in Tulsa, Oklahoma is filled with exciting opportunities. With multiple educational pathways available—from associate degrees at Tulsa Community College to advanced master’s programs at the University of Oklahoma – Tulsa and Oklahoma State University—aspiring designers can find the path that best fits their career goals. Begin exploring program details, meet admission prerequisites, and consider the rewarding career opportunities that await in the field of Industrial Design. Contact your preferred institution today through their inquiry forms to take the next step in your creative career!