Product Design Programs in Denver, Colorado

Getting a Product Design Degree in Denver, Colorado

Earning a Product Design Degree in Denver, Colorado opens doors to a dynamic career in designing innovative products. Product Design integrates creative problem solving, technical fluency, and a deep understanding of manufacturing processes. Education pathways include bachelor’s degrees such as the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design and interdisciplinary master’s programs like the Master of Science in Creative Technology & Design, both of which focus on design processes, technical skills, and real-world industry experience.

About Denver

Denver, Colorado, is a bustling urban center known for its rich cultural scene and diverse neighborhoods. The official website for the City and County of Denver is available here. Alongside iconic landmarks like the Denver Art Museum and the historic Larimer Square, the city provides an inspiring backdrop for students pursuing creative education. Local educational oversight is managed by the Denver Department of Education (primarily for K-12; website, phone: 720-423-3200) and the Denver County Department of Education, which operate under state guidelines provided by the Colorado Department of Higher Education (website, phone: 303-866-2723) and the Colorado Board of Regents (website, phone: 303-860-5600). These bodies ensure that higher education in product design meets rigorous state standards.

Product Design Programs in Denver, Colorado

Below is a list of three programs offering pathways to a Product Design Degree in and around Denver:

  1. Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)

    • Program: B.S. in Industrial Design
    • Address: 1515 Arapahoe St, Denver, CO 80210 (Downtown Denver)
    • Overview: MSU Denver’s Industrial Design program emphasizes a hands-on curriculum with portfolio reviews beginning in the sophomore year. The program has strong industry partnerships, senior internships, and is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). In-state tuition is approximately $12,000/year (2024).
    • Website: MSU Denver Industrial Design Program

  2. University of Denver

    • Program: Interdisciplinary design and innovation courses complementing a Product Design education
    • Address: 2199 S University Blvd, Denver, CO 80208 (University Park neighborhood)
    • Overview: While not offering a dedicated Product Design degree, the University of Denver provides a variety of design courses that support the development of product design skills. Their curriculum fosters creativity, critical thinking, and technical ability, preparing students for diverse roles in design.
    • Website: University of Denver

  3. University of Colorado Boulder

    • Program: M.S. in Creative Technology & Design (Creative Industries track)
    • Address: 1800 Colorado Ave, Boulder, CO 80302 (Central Boulder) – approximately 30 miles from Denver
    • Overview: This interdisciplinary master’s program emphasizes project-based learning, technical fluency, and portfolio development. Admission requires portfolio submission and GRE scores are optional. Graduate tuition is approximately $14,000/year (2024).
    • Website: CU Boulder Creative Technology & Design Program

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Denver, Colorado

Denver’s growing market attracts several major companies and design firms that seek skilled product designers:

  • Vail Resorts

    • Address: 1999 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202 (Downtown Denver)
    • Overview: As a leader in the hospitality and leisure industry, Vail Resorts values innovative design in developing products and solutions for recreation.
    • Website: Vail Resorts

  • Dish Network

    • Address: 2040 Meridian Street, Englewood, CO 80113 (Englewood, near Denver)
    • Overview: This technology and communications company offers opportunities for product designers to work on cutting-edge consumer technologies.
    • Website: Dish Network

  • Yeti

    • Address: Located in Golden, CO, approximately 15 miles from Denver
    • Overview: Yeti is renowned for its high-performance outdoor products. Their commitment to innovative design creates roles for product designers specializing in both form and function.
    • Website: Yeti

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Prospective students should be prepared by meeting common prerequisites, which generally include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Submission of a portfolio that showcases artistic and technical abilities. For example, MSU Denver requires a portfolio review in the sophomore year.
  • Entrance exams are often not mandated; standardized tests may be waived. CU Boulder’s master’s program lists GRE scores as optional.
  • Applicants should meet any minimum age requirements set by the institution.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

Product designers in Denver enjoy a promising job market with competitive salaries and a variety of career paths. Common roles include Industrial Designer, with a median salary around $77,000, and UX/UI Designer, averaging around $95,000. Growth opportunities span industries such as manufacturing, technology, and consumer goods. For detailed job statistics and projections, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Get Started Today

Denver offers robust educational pathways and professional opportunities for aspiring product designers. With options ranging from hands-on undergraduate programs to interdisciplinary master’s degrees and a supportive local industry, the path to a successful design career begins here. Contact your chosen institution using the forms available on their official pages and take the first step towards transforming your passion for design into a rewarding career.