Product Design Programs in Glendale, Arizona

Getting a Product Design Degree in Glendale, Arizona

Earning a Product Design Degree in Glendale, Arizona, offers aspiring designers an opportunity to enter a dynamic field that blends creativity with technical skill. Product Design encompasses the creation and development of functional and aesthetically appealing products. Educational pathways vary from technical certificates to associate degrees, such as the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Design Technology and the Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Industrial Design Technology. These programs emphasize hands-on training with computer-aided design (CAD) software, 3D printing and prototyping, as well as technical documentation and project management. For additional details on educational oversight, refer to the U.S. Department of Education and Arizona Board of Regents.

About Glendale, Arizona

Glendale, located in Maricopa County, offers a unique mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial districts. The city is known for its historic downtown area and landmarks such as the Westgate Entertainment District. Educational initiatives in Glendale are supported by the Glendale Union High School District, ensuring robust community engagement in career and technical education programs. For further city information and resources, visit the City of Glendale Economic Development website.

Product Design Programs in Glendale, Arizona

While Glendale does not currently host a dedicated four-year university product design program, several local and nearby institutions offer comprehensive Product Design courses and degree options. Notable programs include:

  1. Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC)

    • Program: Offers the AAS in Industrial Design Technology and a Certificate of Completion in Design Specialist.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 910 N Dysart Rd, Avondale, AZ 85323; located in Avondale, approximately 10 miles from Glendale.
    • Highlights: EMCC provides hands-on training with modern CAD software and 3D printing technology, along with internship opportunities in local industries.
    • Website: Estrella Mountain Community College

  2. Phoenix College

    • Program: As part of the Maricopa Community College District (MCCCD), Phoenix College offers courses in Industrial Design Technology aligned with product design principles.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 3500 W Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85051; situated in the West Thomas area of Phoenix, about 8–10 miles from Glendale.
    • Highlights: Known for its industry-focused curriculum, Phoenix College emphasizes technical documentation and project management essential for product design.
    • Website: Phoenix College

  3. Mesa Community College (MCC)

    • Program: MCC also provides curriculum components relevant to product design within industrial design technology programs.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 6160 E Main St, Mesa, AZ 85209; located in Mesa, approximately 15 miles from Glendale.
    • Highlights: The program incorporates core courses in CAD and prototyping, ensuring students gain practical skills for the industry.
    • Website: Mesa Community College

All programs are part of the Maricopa County Community College District, which is overseen by the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD). These institutions are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Glendale, Arizona

Graduates with a Product Design Degree in this region can explore a range of opportunities with local design consultancies, technology companies, and manufacturing businesses. Many companies in the greater Maricopa County area actively seek skilled product designers to work on technical documentation, CAD design, and prototyping projects.

  • Gensler

    • Description: A global design firm with an office in downtown Phoenix, Gensler is known for innovative design solutions that extend to product design and architecture.
    • Address & Neighborhood: One Franklin Square, Phoenix, AZ 85004; located in downtown Phoenix (approximately 12 miles from Glendale).
    • Website: Gensler

  • Honeywell Aerospace

    • Description: A leading aerospace and technology company that employs product designers to contribute to cutting-edge manufacturing and design projects.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 3500 W Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85051; based in the West Thomas area of Phoenix (roughly 10 miles from Glendale).
    • Website: Honeywell Aerospace

Design-oriented roles are available in various sectors, including manufacturing, tech startups, and large industrial corporations throughout Maricopa County. Interested individuals are encouraged to explore local career pages and regional job boards for the latest opportunities.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Enrollment in product design programs typically requires meeting specific academic and technical criteria:

  • Educational Background: Applicants must have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification.
  • Standardized Tests: Placement tests in mathematics and English are commonly required.
  • Academic Performance: A minimum grade of C in all prerequisite courses is expected.
  • Additional Requirements: Many programs require the submission of a portfolio and may include entrance exams to assess technical skills.

These prerequisites ensure that students are prepared for the hands-on, technical nature of the programs.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers remains robust. Industrial Designers in Arizona have a median salary of approximately $73,000, while Product Designers enjoy a median salary of around $79,000 as of 2024. Job growth projections indicate a steady increase in demand for professionals skilled in both technical and creative aspects of design. To explore more detailed statistics on employment and salary trends, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Industrial Designers.

Get Started Today

Aspiring product designers in Glendale are well-positioned to embark on a rewarding career in a field that bridges technology and creativity. With multiple program options nearby and thriving local employment opportunities, now is the ideal time to take the next step. Interested applicants should contact local schools directly through the inquiry forms provided on their websites and gather further information on admissions requirements.

For additional resources on educational oversight in the region, students may refer to:

In addition, professional organizations such as the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) offer valuable networking and professional development opportunities.