Product Design Programs in Anaheim, California

Getting a Product Design Degree in Anaheim, California

Pursuing a Product Design Degree opens up a world of creative and technical opportunities. Product design is the practice of creating functional and attractive products through innovative design, prototyping, and user-centered processes. Students can choose from various education paths, including Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), and Associate in Arts (A.A.) programs.

About Anaheim

Anaheim, California is renowned for its dynamic cultural landscape and iconic landmarks such as Disneyland Resort. The city is an active hub for both entertainment and education. For more information about the community, visit the Anaheim Economic Development Department official website. Anaheim’s neighborhoods, including the Anaheim Resort area, provide a vibrant backdrop for aspiring product designers.

Product Design Programs in Anaheim, California

Anaheim itself has limited local programs; however, nearby institutions provide excellent opportunities for students pursuing a Product Design Degree.

  1. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) – B.S. in Industrial Design

    • Address: 1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90840
    • Neighborhood: Located in downtown Long Beach, approximately 20 miles from Anaheim.
    • Program Highlights: Emphasizes human-centered design and sustainable practices. The curriculum covers core subjects such as 3D modeling, prototyping, and internship opportunities across consumer goods and automotive industries. Admission requires a portfolio review—typically after completing foundational courses like DESN 110 and 120A/B—and a minimum GPA of 2.5.
    • More Information: CSULB B.S. in Industrial Design

  2. Cypress College – A.A. in Graphic Design

    • Address: 3000 Fairview Road, Cypress, CA 90630
    • Neighborhood: Located in Cypress, approximately 10 miles from Anaheim.
    • Program Highlights: Focuses on visual communication, digital illustration, web design, and 3D typography. This program emphasizes problem-solving skills without requiring a portfolio submission for admission.
    • More Information: Cypress College A.A. in Graphic Design

  3. Otis College of Art and Design – B.F.A. in Product Design

    • Address: 9045 Lincoln Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045
    • Neighborhood: Situated in Los Angeles, approximately 30 miles from Anaheim.
    • Program Highlights: Offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates creative innovation with technical skill development in product design.
    • More Information: Otis College of Art and Design

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Anaheim, California

Anaheim and its surrounding areas offer significant career opportunities in design, technology, and manufacturing sectors:

  • Disneyland Resort

    • A major employer in the area, Disneyland Resort is known for its creative design roles in themed entertainment.
    • Neighborhood: Anaheim Resort area.
    • Explore Opportunities: Disneyland Resort Careers

  • Edwards Lifesciences (Irvine, CA; approximately 15 miles from Anaheim)

    • This technology-driven manufacturing firm offers roles in design engineering and product development.
    • Explore Opportunities: Edwards Lifesciences

  • Nexa3D (Irvine, CA; approximately 10 miles from Anaheim)

    • A leading 3D printing company that provides innovative product design roles in advanced manufacturing.
    • Explore Opportunities: Nexa3D

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Typical admission prerequisites for Product Design programs include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Completion of foundational courses, which support portfolio development.
  • For programs like CSULB’s B.S. in Industrial Design, a portfolio review (usually following courses such as DESN 110, 120A/B) and a minimum GPA of 2.5 are required.
  • Some institutions may require entrance exams depending on the program.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The career outlook for product designers remains positive. Entry-level salaries typically range from $60,000 to $80,000 per year, while experienced professionals can earn between $100,000 and $150,000 per year. Job growth is supported by opportunities in consumer electronics, automotive, and themed entertainment industries. For detailed labor statistics and industry trends, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics – Industrial Designers.

Additional Educational Regulatory Information

Aspiring students in Anaheim benefit from robust support provided by multiple education regulatory bodies:

  • Anaheim Union High School District

    • Oversees K-12 and career technical education in Anaheim.
    • Website: https://www.auhsd.us/
    • Contact: (714) 999-3663

  • Orange County Department of Education

    • Facilitates K-12 and postsecondary partnerships including STEM and technical education programs.
    • Website: https://ocde.us/Pages/Home.aspx
    • Contact: (714) 966-4000

  • California Department of Education (CDE)

    • Manages state-level education policies and postsecondary programs.
    • Website: https://www.cde.ca.gov/
    • Contact: (916) 319-0800

  • U.S. Department of Education

State-Specific Degree Information

Anaheim students can pursue diverse degree options tailored to the product and industrial design field:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Industrial Design at CSULB

    • Focuses on human-centered design, sustainable practices, and includes core courses in 3D modeling and prototyping.
    • Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

  • Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Graphic Design at Cypress College

    • Emphasizes digital illustration, web design, and 3D typography while fostering visual storytelling skills.
    • Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Product Design at Otis College of Art and Design

    • Provides a robust curriculum centered on creative innovation and technical prowess in product design.

Professional Organizations and Additional Resources

Professional organizations add significant value to a product designer’s career:

  • Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA)
    • Supports industrial design education and professional development with networking events, design competitions, and industry conferences.
    • Website: https://www.idsa.org/

Additional resources offer state- and county-level support:

Get Started Today

Students ready to pursue a Product Design Degree in Anaheim, California are encouraged to take the next step toward a rewarding career. Contact your preferred school through the inquiry forms available on their websites and begin your journey in product design education today.