Product Design Programs in Ontario, California

Getting a Product Design Degree in Ontario, California

Navigating a Product Design Degree path in Ontario, California involves understanding the various educational options available and the unique features that each program offers. Product design encompasses the creation and development of innovative, user-centered products, blending art and engineering. Education in this field can vary from undergraduate degrees like the Bachelor of Design (BDes) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) to graduate certificates focusing on digital product design. This guide provides a comprehensive overview for anyone considering local Product Design programs.

About Ontario, California

Ontario, California is a bustling city located in San Bernardino County with a rich industrial heritage and a growing creative community. The city is known for landmarks such as the Ontario Mills shopping center and local parks that serve as community hubs. For more official information about the city, visit the Ontario City Department of Education which oversees K-12 education in this area.

Product Design Programs in Ontario, California

While dedicated Product Design programs in Ontario itself may be limited, prospective students have access to several nearby options. Below is a list of three schools offering quality Product Design education, including details on program focus, location, and distance from Ontario.

  1. Chaffey College (Rancho Cucamonga, CA – ~5 miles away)

    • Program Focus: Offers design courses and certificate programs that cover elements of product, industrial, and digital design.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 9000 S Victoria Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739; located in a suburban neighborhood adjacent to Ontario.
    • Learn More: Visit the Chaffey College website for enrollment details and course descriptions.

  2. Cal Poly Pomona (Pomona, CA – ~15 miles away)

    • Program Focus: Offers industrial and product design courses that integrate design research, concept development, and prototype creation.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 380 W Temple Ave, Pomona, CA 91766; situated in the heart of Pomona with easy access from Ontario.
    • Learn More: For more information on design programs, visit Cal Poly Pomona’s official website.

  3. Otis College of Art and Design (Los Angeles, CA – ~40 miles away)

    • Program Focus: Provides a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Product Design with strong industry partnerships that include collaborations with leading companies.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 6600 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036; located in the Westchester neighborhood.
    • Learn More: Detailed information is available on the Otis College Product Design page.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Ontario, California

Although Ontario may not host a large number of standalone design firms, the surrounding region boasts major design, tech, and manufacturing companies that frequently hire product designers. These organizations value the blend of creativity and technical skill that Product Design graduates offer. Key employers in the broader Southern California area include:

  • Apple Inc.

    • Overview: Known for leading innovation, Apple frequently seeks product designers to contribute to its expansive range of consumer electronics.
    • Opportunities: Check available positions on the Apple Careers page.
    • Neighborhood: While headquartered in Cupertino, Apple maintains operations in the greater Los Angeles area accessible from Ontario.

  • IBM

    • Overview: A multinational technology company that offers numerous roles in product design and user experience design.
    • Opportunities: Explore roles via the IBM Employment page.
    • Neighborhood: IBM has offices across California, including in the Los Angeles metropolitan region.

  • SpaceX

    • Overview: Renowned for cutting-edge aerospace technology, SpaceX’s innovation-driven environment is ideal for product designers.
    • Opportunities: Visit the SpaceX Careers page to learn more.
    • Neighborhood: Their Hawthorne headquarters is within driving distance from Ontario.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Applicants to Product Design programs typically encounter several common prerequisites:

  • Educational Requirements: High school graduates, particularly Ontario high school students, must often maintain a minimum overall average (e.g., 70% for some programs).
  • Portfolio Submission: Most undergraduate programs, such as BFA and BDes, require a portfolio showcasing creative and design-related work.
  • Statement of Intent: Some programs expect candidates to submit a statement explaining their passion and reasons for pursuing Product Design.
  • Entrance Exams and Special Requirements: International students must meet English proficiency requirements, and additional entrance exams may be necessary for advanced programs.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers is robust, with increasing demand in the tech, manufacturing, and creative sectors. Average salaries for entry-level UX Designers in Ontario, for instance, are around $64,000. Job growth in related fields, such as UX/UI Design and Industrial Design, indicates promising career trajectories for graduates. Prospective students can read more about these trends and statistics on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Get Started Today

Ontario, California provides a range of educational programs and nearby opportunities for those interested in pursuing a Product Design Degree. With several local and regional schools offering programs and a dynamic job market featuring top employers, prospective students have much to gain by taking the next step. Explore the programs that best fit your aspirations and contact the schools through their inquiry forms to begin your journey in product design.