Product Design Programs in Lakewood, Colorado

Getting a Product Design Degree in Lakewood, Colorado

Pursuing a Product Design degree opens doors to a multitude of creative career paths in innovation, engineering, and user experience. Product Design involves the art and science of developing, prototyping, and refining products, blending aesthetics with functionality. Educational options range from a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design to specialized certificates in Mechanical Design and Product Development.

Lakewood students and residents interested in Product Design can explore local courses, collaborate with diverse professionals, and tap into a network of industry partnerships. With growing demand in sectors such as tech, manufacturing, and design consultancy, the field offers comprehensive training and numerous career opportunities.

About Lakewood, Colorado

Lakewood, situated in Jefferson County, is known for its robust community and proximity to Denver’s bustling creative industry. The city is governed by the Lakewood City Government, which oversees local education initiatives and workforce development programs. With neighborhoods such as Field Creek and landmarks that celebrate arts and cultural diversity, Lakewood provides an inspiring backdrop for future product designers.

Product Design Programs in Lakewood, Colorado

Local educational institutions offer various pathways into Product Design. Although dedicated product design degree programs within Lakewood itself are limited, nearby schools provide excellent options:

  1. Red Rocks Community College

    • Location: 7021 W Russell Ave, Lakewood, CO 80232 (Field Creek neighborhood)
    • Program Overview: Offering foundation courses in art and design alongside digital media programs, Red Rocks Community College introduces students to design fundamentals that can serve as a stepping stone for advanced product design studies.
    • Website: https://www.rrcc.edu/

  2. Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)

    • Location: 1580 Platte St, Denver, CO 80202 (University Park neighborhood) – approximately 8 miles from Lakewood.
    • Program Overview: MSU Denver offers a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design. This accredited program emphasizes portfolio reviews, collaborative projects, and technical skill development. Applicants must submit a portfolio at the sophomore review and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0.
    • Program Page: MSU Denver Industrial Design

  3. University of Colorado Boulder

    • Location: 2500 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80302 (Downtown Boulder) – about 25 miles from Lakewood.
    • Program Overview: CU Boulder provides a Graduate Certificate in Mechanical Design and Product Development, focusing on advanced product design concepts such as manufacturability and interdisciplinary collaboration. Admission requires the GRE for the graduate certificate program.
    • Program Page: CU Boulder Mechanical Design & Product Development Graduate Certificate

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Lakewood, Colorado

Lakewood’s proximity to Denver and surrounding areas provides aspiring product designers access to a range of employment opportunities at major design firms, tech companies, and manufacturing businesses. Notable employers include:

  • Ball Corporation

    • Location: Headquarters in Broomfield, CO (approximately 10 miles from Lakewood)
    • Overview: A global manufacturer that emphasizes innovation and cutting-edge product design. Product designers here work on creating solutions that blend functionality with economic production.
    • Website: https://www.ball.com/

  • Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control

    • Location: 1001 Orion Drive, Littleton, CO 80123 (situated in the Highlands neighborhood of Littleton, about 10 miles from Lakewood)
    • Overview: This aerospace leader employs product designers to develop and enhance sophisticated systems and components for defense and commercial applications.
    • Website: https://www.lockheedmartin.com/

  • Arrow Electronics

    • Location: Headquartered in Centennial, CO, roughly 12 miles from Lakewood
    • Overview: A major technology solutions provider that recruits product designers to innovate in electronics, software, and integrated systems.
    • Website: https://www.arrow.com/

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Admission into Product Design programs typically requires students to meet certain prerequisites:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is necessary for undergraduate programs, while a bachelor’s degree may be required for advanced certificates.
  • Portfolio Submission: MSU Denver’s Industrial Design program mandates a portfolio review at the sophomore stage.
  • GPA Requirements: A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required for MSU Denver’s program.
  • Standardized Tests: The GRE is required for CU Boulder’s Graduate Certificate in Mechanical Design and Product Development.
  • Additional Requirements: Programs may also request letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The demand for skilled product designers continues to grow, with entry-level salaries ranging between $50,000 and $70,000. Experienced professionals can expect a median salary of approximately $76,250, according to recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data on Industrial Designers. Career paths span various industries, including technology, manufacturing, aerospace, and consumer goods.

Local product design graduates can also leverage professional membership organizations such as the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), which offers networking opportunities, industry events, and job boards.

Get Started Today

Aspiring product designers are encouraged to explore the diverse educational programs and local employment opportunities available near Lakewood, Colorado. With robust academic offerings from nearby institutions and access to industry-leading companies, the future is promising. Contact the schools directly using their inquiry forms and begin your journey toward a rewarding career in Product Design.

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