Industrial Design Programs in Amarillo, Texas

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Amarillo, Texas

Pursuing an Industrial Design degree in Amarillo, Texas, offers a comprehensive pathway into a dynamic field that combines aesthetics with functional engineering. Industrial Design education can take several paths—from associate degrees emphasizing hands-on technical skills to bachelor’s programs that integrate design thinking with industrial engineering principles. With robust local and regional programs, individuals can select courses that best align with their career aspirations in Industrial Design.

About Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo is a prominent city in the Texas Panhandle known for its rich cultural history and strong manufacturing base. The city is home to notable landmarks such as the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and the historic Route 66 district, fostering a creative environment. For further details about Amarillo, visit the official City of Amarillo website.

Industrial Design Programs in Amarillo, Texas

While Amarillo offers direct access to quality industrial technical training, prospective students should consider nearby institutions for expanded opportunities in Industrial Design.

  • Amarillo College – Industrial Technology Program

    • Program Details: Offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Technology focused on hands-on training in HVAC systems, industrial controls, and safety protocols.
    • Address: 1900 South Harrison Street, Amarillo, TX (Located near downtown Amarillo)
    • Program Website: Amarillo College Industrial Technology
    • Distance: Located in Amarillo.

  • West Texas A&M University – Engineering and Design Courses

    • Program Details: While not exclusively dedicated to Industrial Design, West Texas A&M University provides engineering courses that can complement Industrial Design studies, offering insight into manufacturing and product development.
    • Address: 600 University Blvd, Canyon, TX (Situated in a college town neighborhood)
    • Website: West Texas A&M University
    • Distance: Approximately 35 miles from Amarillo.

  • Texas Tech University – Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering

    • Program Details: This program integrates engineering principles with business practices, encompassing operations research, supply chain management, and ergonomic design. A capstone project and internship experiences are integral to the curriculum.
    • Address: 2500 Broadway, Lubbock, TX (Located in downtown Lubbock)
    • Program Catalog: Texas Tech University Industrial Engineering Catalog
    • Distance: Approximately 120 miles from Amarillo.

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo’s industrial landscape is complemented by rising opportunities in design and engineering. Prominent organizations provide promising career pathways for Industrial Designers:

  • Pantex Plant

    • Overview: A major facility offering positions in industrial design, engineering, and manufacturing, Pantex Plant is recognized for its role in national security and industrial innovation.
    • Website: Pantex Plant
    • Location: Situated in the southeastern industrial district of Amarillo.

  • Amarillo Economic Development Corporation (AEDC)

    • Overview: AEDC facilitates connections between job seekers and local employers in manufacturing and design sectors. This resource is valuable for Industrial Designers looking to network and discover career openings.
    • Website: Amarillo Economic Development Corporation
    • Location: Located in central Amarillo.

For a broader view of employment trends, review the job outlook for Industrial Designers on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Typically, applicants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. For some programs, especially those leading to a bachelor’s degree, prerequisite courses in mathematics and science are required. While Amarillo College does not mandate SAT/ACT scores for its AAS programs, Texas Tech University requires standardized test scores for freshmen applicants. A portfolio of creative work may also be requested to assess design aptitude.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Texas

Degree requirements for Industrial Design in Texas are regulated at multiple levels:

  • Local Oversight:

    • Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) oversees public education and CTE programs in Amarillo. Visit AISD or call (806) 326-1300 for more information.

  • County Support:

    • Potter County Education Service Center promotes regional educational initiatives, including career and technical education. Their website is esc16.net, and they can be reached at (806) 677-2600.

  • State Regulation:

    • The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) regulates higher education in Texas. For state-level requirements and updates, visit THECB or call (512) 427-6100.

  • Federal Guidelines:

    • The U.S. Department of Education administers federal education policies and funding, accessible at ed.gov, with related student aid resources available at Federal Student Aid.

Specific programs in Amarillo include:

  • Amarillo College’s AAS in Industrial Technology: Requires a high school diploma, does not require SAT/ACT, and focuses on core courses in HVAC systems, industrial controls, and internships with local industries. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).
  • Texas Tech University’s BS in Industrial Engineering: Requires SAT/ACT scores and prerequisite courses in math and science. This program includes core courses in operations research, supply chain management, and ergonomics with a required capstone project. It is accredited by SACSCOC and its engineering programs are accredited by ABET.

Professional Certification Options

Industrial Designers seeking to enhance their professional standing may consider certifications such as the Certified Industrial Designer (CID) offered by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA). This certification, available through IDSA, reinforces industry best practices and provides access to continued professional development. Additionally, local initiatives like the Amarillo College Industrial Technology Advisory Board facilitate connections with industry partners, supporting ongoing education and certification.

Get Started Today

The journey toward an Industrial Design degree in Amarillo, Texas, is filled with diverse learning opportunities and promising career prospects. With programs ranging from hands-on associate degrees to comprehensive bachelor’s programs, prospective students can choose the path that best suits their goals. Review the admission requirements, explore the curriculum details, and connect with local institutions to take the next step in a rewarding career. Contact a school today through the inquiry forms on their websites to begin this exciting educational pursuit.