Product Design Programs in Long Beach, California

Getting a Product Design Degree in Long Beach, California

Pursuing a Product Design Degree in Long Beach, California offers numerous pathways to launching a career in product development, industrial design, and UX/UI innovation. Product design involves combining creative artistry with technical expertise to develop functional, aesthetically appealing products. Programs can range from Applied Design certificates to Bachelor of Science degrees in Industrial Design, providing varied education options depending on career goals and interests.

This guide outlines educational pathways, prerequisites, and local employment opportunities, while integrating essential state- and city-level resources. It also covers key degree requirements and additional regulatory bodies that influence product design education in Long Beach and the surrounding regions.

About Long Beach

Long Beach is a bustling coastal city in Southern California known for its diverse neighborhoods, bustling waterfront, and cultural landmarks. The city offers a dynamic setting with attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific and the historic downtown area. For more information about Long Beach, visit the official city website.

Product Design Programs in Long Beach, California

Long Beach is home to several highly regarded institutions offering product design courses and degrees, as well as additional nearby programs accessible by a short drive:

  1. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)

    • Program: BS in Industrial Design
    • Address: 1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90840
    • Neighborhood: Located in the southeast area of Long Beach with strong industry partnerships.
    • Description: CSULB’s Industrial Design program emphasizes rapid prototyping, sustainable design, and human factors. Students are expected to complete portfolio submissions and engage in internships and sponsored projects.
    • Website: CSULB

  2. Long Beach City College (LBCC)

    • Programs: AA in Art (Applied Design) and Certificate of Achievement in Applied Design
    • Address: 300 E 7th St, Long Beach, CA 90802
    • Neighborhood: Situated in downtown Long Beach, LBCC integrates craft, visual art, and product design through hands-on studio sessions and digital fabrication tools.
    • Description: LBCC focuses on foundational art and design courses, with an emphasis on material exploration in ceramics, jewelry, and 3D printing.
    • Website: LBCC Applied Design

  3. Otis College of Art and Design

    • Program: Product Design-focused courses and design degrees
    • Address: 9045 Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
    • Neighborhood: Located in the Westchester area of Los Angeles, approximately 20 miles from Long Beach.
    • Description: Otis College is renowned for its creative curriculum and links with innovative design firms. It offers a range of art and design programs incorporating digital tools and comprehensive project-based learning.
    • Website: Otis College of Art and Design

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Long Beach, California

Long Beach and the surrounding areas are hubs for innovation, with several major firms and design organizations actively hiring product designers:

  • Apple

    • Description: A global leader in technology, Apple designs products that blend form with functionality. Opportunities in product design are available at various offices if not directly in Long Beach.
    • Website: Apple Jobs

  • Google

    • Description: Known for pioneering digital solutions and user-centric products, Google offers roles in industrial and UX/UI design, contributing to innovative tech products.
    • Website: Google Careers

  • IDEO

    • Description: A design company celebrated for its creative methodology and human-centered design approach. IDEO engages in multiple projects requiring collaborative design thinking.
    • Website: IDEO Careers

  • SpaceX

    • Description: Located in the greater Los Angeles area, SpaceX drives innovation in aerospace through advanced product design and engineering practices.
    • Website: SpaceX Careers

These companies, along with local design initiatives like the Long Beach Creative Group, showcase the thriving design ecosystem in and around Long Beach.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in Product Design programs include:

  • Education Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required. Some programs favor candidates with a robust background in art and design.
  • Portfolio Submission: Especially crucial for advanced programs like CSULB’s BS in Industrial Design, candidates must present a portfolio that demonstrates creativity and technical skill.
  • Foundation Courses: Programs such as LBCC’s Applied Design Certificate expect completion of foundational art and design courses, covering various materials like wood, metal, ceramics, and digital fabrication.
  • Entrance Exams/Interviews: Certain institutions may require entrance exams or interviews to assess creative aptitude and readiness for the course curriculum.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers remains promising. Product Designers can earn between $75,000 and $110,000 per year, while UX/UI Designers generally see salaries between $90,000 and $130,000. Job growth in creative and technical design roles is buoyed by industry partnerships and the continuous innovation in technology and manufacturing.

For a detailed analysis of job growth projections, average salaries, and career paths, review the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Additional Degree Requirements and Regulatory Resources

Institutions in Long Beach and the broader California area adhere to multifaceted regulatory oversight:

  • Long Beach City College (LBCC)

    • Offers programs integrating craft, visual art, and product design. Contact: (562) 938-4111.
    • LBCC Applied Design

  • Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE)

    • Oversees broader educational partnerships, including local college programs. Contact: (562) 922-6000.
    • LACOE

  • California State University System

  • U.S. Department of Education

Specific degree offerings include:

  • BS in Industrial Design: A 120-unit program focusing on product development, sustainable design, and human factors at CSULB.
  • AA in Art (Applied Design) and Certificate Programs: Offered through LBCC, with courses in ceramics, jewelry, digital media, and 3D printing.

Professional organizations supporting product designers include the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), which offers networking, job boards, and design competitions, as well as local groups such as the Long Beach Creative Group.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a Product Design Degree in Long Beach, California is a promising step toward a successful, creative career. With a variety of programs, a supportive community, and abundant local opportunities, prospective students are encouraged to explore these pathways thoroughly. Contact your preferred institution today through their inquiry forms to begin your journey in product design.