Industrial Design Programs in Salt Lake City, Utah

Getting an Industrial Design Degree in Salt Lake City, Utah

Pursuing an Industrial Design degree is an engaging pathway for creative professionals aspiring to merge aesthetics with functionality. Industrial Design focuses on designing everyday products, integrating art and technology. Students can choose from different education paths, including Bachelor’s and Master’s programs that emphasize design research, human-centered innovation, materials science, and digital manufacturing.

For those interested in industrial design, several education paths offer both traditional art-based approaches and modern, multi-disciplinary curricula. Whether you choose a bachelor’s program with a portfolio review or a master’s program that includes Gre scores and professional documentation, the available courses can help you build the necessary skills for a fulfilling career.

About Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, offers a robust blend of cultural heritage and modern innovation. The city’s official website (https://www.slc.gov/) provides valuable resources for residents and prospective students. Known for its historical landmarks, artistic neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community, Salt Lake City is an excellent backdrop for pursuing an Industrial Design degree.

Industrial Design Programs in Salt Lake City, Utah

Though Salt Lake City hosts several educational institutions, some programs are available nearby if not directly within the city.

• University of Utah – Salt Lake City, UT
  Program: BFA in Multi-Disciplinary Design
  Address: 300 Coulter Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 (Downtown)
  Description: The University of Utah offers an innovative design program featuring the Spark Initiative, which integrates hands-on projects with courses in design research, digital manufacturing, and sustainable design.
  Program Page: University of Utah Design Program

• Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) – Salt Lake City, UT
  Programs: Foundational courses in design and technology with modules applicable to Industrial Design
  Address: 250 E 400 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102 (Central City)
  Description: SLCC provides accessible coursework for students interested in developing a background in design fundamentals, preparing them to meet the prerequisites for advanced Industrial Design studies.

• Brigham Young University – Provo, UT (Approximately 45 miles from Salt Lake City)
  Program: Bachelor’s in Industrial Design
  Address: 75 N University Ave, Provo, UT 84604 (Downtown Provo)
  Description: Brigham Young University emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship within its Industrial Design curriculum. Students in this program are equipped with strong technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities.
  Website: Brigham Young University

Industrial Design Career Opportunities in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City hosts a range of career opportunities in the industrial design field. Major employers include design agencies, tech companies, and manufacturing firms that value creative approaches to product development.

• Wired Brand Group – Salt Lake City, UT
  Description: Situated in downtown Salt Lake City (approximately 65 W 800 S, Suite 300), Wired Brand Group offers services in branding, design, and digital media. The company frequently seeks innovative designers to contribute to high-profile projects.
  Careers Page: (Please visit the official website for employment opportunities by navigating the site’s Careers section.)

• Adobe – Lehi, UT (Approximately 35 miles from Salt Lake City)
  Description: Adobe, known globally for its creative software solutions, maintains a significant presence in Utah. Their focus on creative tools and design innovation offers promising opportunities for industrial designers seeking roles in tech-driven environments.
  Careers Page: Adobe Careers

• Qualtrics – Provo, UT (Approximately 45 miles from Salt Lake City)
  Description: Based in Provo, Qualtrics is a leader in experience management technology. Their commitment to innovation and user-centered design creates a fertile ground for industrial designers.
  Careers Page: Qualtrics Careers

For further career insights, readers can consult the Industrial Designers job outlook on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website: Industrial Designers Job Outlook.

Prerequisites for Industrial Design Programs

Prospective students should be aware of common prerequisites for enrolling in an Industrial Design program:

• Educational Background: High school coursework in art, mathematics, and science is typically recommended.
• Portfolio Submission: Most bachelor’s programs require a portfolio that highlights creative skills and past projects.
• Academic Standards: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is usually expected for undergraduate programs.
• Standardized Testing: ACT/SAT scores may be required; however, some 2024 programs have made these optional.
• Graduate Requirements: For master’s programs, GRE scores and an in-depth portfolio review emphasizing professional or academic work are often necessary.

Industrial Design Degree Requirements in Utah

Utah fulfills degree requirements through state-specific guidelines and accreditation standards. Key points include:

• Core Curriculum: Courses include design research, human-centered design, materials science, digital manufacturing, and specializations in areas such as healthcare innovation, sustainability, or entrepreneurship.
• Internships: Some programs, such as the University of Utah’s Spark Initiative, require internships to provide real-world experience.
• Accreditation: Programs should be verified by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Additionally, several official educational regulatory bodies provide oversight and resources in this region:

• Salt Lake City School District – https://www.slcschools.org/, Contact: (801) 578-8599
• Salt Lake County Board of Education – https://www.slco.org/ (search “Education”), Contact: (801) 468-3500
• Utah State Board of Education – https://www.schools.utah.gov/, Contact: (801) 538-7500
• Utah System of Higher Education – https://ushe.edu/, Contact: (801) 321-7200
• U.S. Department of Education – https://www.ed.gov/

Programs in Utah offer degrees such as the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Multi-Disciplinary Design at the University of Utah and the Bachelor of Industrial Design at Brigham Young University. Prospective students should verify specific admission requirements as they vary by institution.

Professional Certification Options

Industrial designers can enhance their qualifications through professional certification. Organizations providing certifications include:

• Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA): Advocates for design professionals by offering the Certified Industrial Designer (CID) credential, which boosts credibility and networking opportunities. For further details, visit IDSA.
• LEED AP Certification: Targeted for professionals focused on sustainable design, this credential is valued in environmentally conscious roles.

Certification can lead to career growth, increased job opportunities, and professional development by connecting designers with industry peers and continuing education initiatives.

Get Started Today

The journey toward an Industrial Design degree in Salt Lake City, Utah, offers a blend of rigorous academics and practical experience. With strong local educational institutions, a supportive design community, and diverse career opportunities, future industrial designers can confidently take the next step. Interested individuals should contact a school today through the provided forms on their websites to inquire about enrollment, portfolio requirements, and scholarships.