Industrial Design Programs in Memphis, Tennessee

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Memphis, Tennessee

Embarking on an Industrial Design degree offers a pathway into a dynamic world of design, innovation, and problem-solving. While Industrial Design traditionally focuses on designing products and systems that enhance everyday life, related fields such as interior architecture and instructional design provide opportunities for creative expression. Various education paths exist, from undergraduate programs to specialized graduate degrees, each offering courses in spatial design, materials, and technology to prepare you for a competitive career.

About Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee, is a city known for its rich musical heritage, cultural landmarks, and thriving art scene. Home to iconic attractions like Beale Street and the National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis provides a stimulating environment for creative professionals. For more information about the city’s resources and community initiatives, visit the official Memphis website.

Industrial Design Programs in Memphis, Tennessee

Currently, no accredited Industrial Design programs are offered directly in Memphis. However, local students can explore related fields such as interior architecture and instructional design. Below is a curated list of nearby institutions that offer complementary programs:

  1. University of Memphis (Memphis, TN – Midtown)

    • Program Offerings: Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture, focusing on spatial design and human-centered environments, as well as a 100% online Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology.
    • Address: 3750 Norriswood Avenue, Memphis, TN 38152
    • Program Link: University of Memphis IDT Program

  2. Middle Tennessee State University (Murfreesboro, TN – Downtown)

    • Program Offerings: Provides a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design that covers core courses in design fundamentals, materials, and building systems.
    • Address: 1300 E Main St, Murfreesboro, TN 37132
    • Distance: Approximately 250 miles from Memphis

  3. East Tennessee State University (Johnson City, TN – Downtown)

    • Program Offerings: Offers a Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture that emphasizes spatial design and practical experience through internships.
    • Address: 55 Innovation Drive, Johnson City, TN 37604
    • Distance: Approximately 350 miles from Memphis

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is home to several organizations where design expertise is valued, even if the traditional Industrial Design role is more prominent in larger metropolitan areas like Nashville or Knoxville. Notable employers include:

  • FedEx Corporation

    • Description: Headquartered in Memphis, FedEx offers roles in design and innovation within its corporate and logistics operations.
    • Address: 942 South Shady Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38120 (based in the South Memphis area)
    • Careers Page: FedEx Careers

  • St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

    • Description: A nationally recognized healthcare institution that frequently seeks design professionals for facility planning, project design, and innovative patient care solutions.
    • Address: 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (Downtown)
    • Careers Page: St. Jude Careers

  • AIGA Memphis

    • Description: Although primarily a professional organization, AIGA Memphis supports graphic and experience designers through workshops and networking events that can lead to career opportunities in industrial and product design roles.
    • Address: Local meeting venues vary across Memphis neighborhoods
    • Website: AIGA Memphis

For additional career insights and statistics, visit the Industrial Designers Job Outlook on BLS.gov.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Enrolling in design-related programs typically requires a combination of academic prerequisites and creative demonstration:

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Portfolio submission is essential to showcase design potential.
    • A minimum GPA, often around 2.5, is expected, though specific requirements may vary by institution.
  • Graduate Programs:
    • Many programs (such as the University of Memphis’s online MS in Instructional Design and Technology) do not require the GRE.
    • Non-native English speakers must provide TOEFL scores.
    • Interviews and additional materials may also be part of the admission process.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Tennessee

Students pursuing degrees in Tennessee should be aware of both state-specific and national standards. Although Memphis does not currently offer an accredited Industrial Design program, related fields in interior design and instructional design are available. Key regulatory and accrediting bodies include:

  • Memphis City Schools

    • Oversees K-12 education and career pathway initiatives in Memphis.
    • Website: Memphis City Schools
    • Contact: (901) 416-5300

  • Shelby County Schools

    • Manages K-12 education and vocational training across Shelby County.
    • Website: Shelby County Schools
    • Contact: (901) 416-5300

  • Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC)

    • Regulates and funds postsecondary education in Tennessee, including program accreditation oversight.
    • Website: THEC
    • Contact: (615) 741-3600

  • U.S. Department of Education

State-Specific Degree Information

  • Types of Degrees Available:
    • Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture is available at the University of Memphis, focusing on spatial design and human-centered environments.
    • A 100% online Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology is also offered by the University of Memphis.
  • Admission Requirements:
    • For undergraduate programs, portfolio submission and a minimum GPA of 2.5 are common requirements.
    • For the graduate program, non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL scores, and no GRE is required.
  • Curriculum Requirements:
    • Core courses in interior architecture include spatial design, materials, and building systems.
    • Instructional design programs cover message design, learning analytics, and the application of AI in education.
    • Internships or practicums are incorporated to provide practical experience.
  • Accrediting Bodies:
    • The Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) are key organizations in verifying program standards.
    • Verify accreditation status via the CIDA Accredited Programs.

Professional Certification Options

Industrial design professionals can enhance their credentials through various certification programs:

  • Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA):
    • Offers the Certified Industrial Designer (CID) credential, providing networking opportunities and professional development across the design field.
    • Website: IDSA
  • Additional certification options are available through continuing education platforms such as Coursera and LinkedIn Learning. These options help professionals stay current with emerging trends and technologies.

Get Started Today

The journey toward a career in Industrial Design starts with taking that first step. Although Memphis currently focuses on related disciplines like interior architecture and instructional design, your creative skills can be honed at local institutions or at neighboring universities. Explore your options, contact a school today using their inquiry forms, and prepare to design the future with confidence.