Product Design Programs in Irvine, California

Getting a Product Design Degree in Irvine, California

Product Design is a dynamic field that combines creativity, technical expertise, and problem-solving to develop innovative products. In Irvine, California, aspiring product designers have multiple education paths available—including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Certificate programs—that provide a blend of theory and hands-on practice. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the process of earning a Product Design Degree in Irvine, detailing educational requirements, curriculum specifics, and professional resources that are overseen by local, county, state, and federal regulatory bodies.

Regulatory oversight is divided among several agencies: the Irvine City Education Office manages local education initiatives (contact at Irvine City Hall, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine, CA 92606), the Orange County Department of Education handles county-wide educational programs (200 Kalmus Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626), and the California Department of Education (website: https://www.cde.ca.gov, phone: (916) 319-0800) sets state standards. At the federal level, the U.S. Department of Education (https://www.ed.gov) ensures national funding and accreditation standards.

About Irvine, California

Irvine is a master-planned city in Orange County known for its robust educational institutions, thriving business districts, and distinct neighborhoods such as University Park and Woodbridge. The city provides a collaborative environment for creative professionals and aspiring product designers. For more detailed information, interested readers should refer to the official Irvine government website available through local government channels.

Product Design Programs in Irvine, California

Below are three educational institutions offering Product Design programs or related courses, including details on program focus, location, and additional information:

  1. University of California – Irvine (UCI)

    • Program: Master’s in Human-Computer Interaction & Design (MHCID)
    • Overview: UCI provides an intensive program that features capstone projects with industry clients and a low student-faculty ratio, offering specialized training in product design innovation.
    • Website: https://mhcid.ics.uci.edu
    • Location: UCI is situated in the University Park neighborhood of Irvine.

  2. Irvine Valley College (IVC)

    • Program: Certificate in Design Model Making and Rapid Prototyping
    • Overview: IVC offers a cost-effective, hands-on certificate program that prepares students for transfer to UC/CSU systems and immediate entry into the design industry.
    • Website: https://www.ivc.edu/idea/design-model-making-and-rapid-prototyping
    • Address: 5500 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618; located in central Irvine.

  3. California State University, Fullerton

    • Program: Product/Industrial Design courses and related offerings (for students interested in supplemented coursework)
    • Overview: Though not located directly in Irvine, CSUF offers product design-related courses that serve as a strong complement to local programs. The campus is approximately 17 miles from Irvine, providing an accessible option for students seeking additional specialization.
    • Website: https://www.fullerton.edu
    • Address: 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92831; located in the suburban area of Fullerton.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Irvine, California

Irvine is home to a range of major design firms, tech companies, and manufacturing businesses that frequently hire product designers:

  • Broadcom Inc.

    • Description: A global technology leader, Broadcom Inc. is headquartered in Irvine and is known for innovation in semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions.
    • Website: https://www.broadcom.com
    • Location: 1320 Ridgeline Dr, Irvine, CA 92618 – situated near the Irvine Spectrum district.

  • Blizzard Entertainment

    • Description: A leading interactive entertainment company, Blizzard Entertainment designs cutting-edge gaming interfaces and products.
    • Website: https://www.blizzard.com/
    • Location: 1 Blizzard Way, Irvine, CA 92618 – located in a modern business park suited for creative tech firms.

  • Edwards Lifesciences

    • Description: Specializing in medical technologies, Edwards Lifesciences develops innovative devices that enhance patient care and often collaborates with product designers.
    • Website: https://www.edwards.com
    • Location: Headquartered in Irvine, the company is integrated into one of the city’s thriving commercial hubs.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in a Product Design program in Irvine include:

  • Bachelor’s Programs:
    • A high school diploma with competitive SAT/ACT scores (e.g., UCI requires SAT scores around 1540/ACT scores around 34).
    • A portfolio that demonstrates creativity and design skills.
  • Master’s Programs:
    • A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (such as industrial design, engineering, or a related discipline).
    • GRE scores may be required according to specific program details.
  • Certificate Programs:
    • No prior experience is necessary; these programs provide robust hands-on training.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers in California remains strong. With a median salary for Product Designers around $101,706 and UX Researchers at approximately $75,337, graduates can pursue diverse career paths in technology, manufacturing, and consumer goods industries. Job growth projections are positive, reflecting an ongoing demand for innovation and creative product solutions. For further detailed statistical information, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page for Industrial Designers.

Get Started Today

Aspiring product designers in Irvine are encouraged to take the next step by exploring the educational options and career opportunities described above. Contact your chosen school through their official inquiry forms to learn more about program details, admission requirements, and financial aid options. Begin your journey toward a successful career in Product Design today.