Product Design Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Getting a Product Design Degree in Honolulu, Hawaii

Embarking on a Product Design degree in Honolulu, Hawaii offers a unique opportunity to combine creative innovation with practical design skills. Product design involves the conception, creation, and refinement of consumer products by integrating functionality with aesthetics. Education paths range from comprehensive bachelor’s degrees, such as the Bachelor of Science in Apparel Product Design & Merchandising, to certificate programs focusing on graphic and UX/UI design. Students learn core concepts including garment construction, pattern development, fashion forecasting, supply chain management, and the practical use of CAD tools like the Adobe Creative Suite. Many programs also require portfolio submissions and mandate senior-year internships, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience prior to graduation.

For those seeking additional guidance, local educational regulatory agencies—such as the Honolulu Department of Budget and Fiscal Services (contact: (808) 768-3830), the Oʻahu County Board of Education (contact: (808) 784-5000), and the University of Hawaiʻi System (contact: (808) 956-8111)—offer extensive oversight. At the federal level, the U.S. Department of Education provides further resources for navigating educational funding and policy.

About Honolulu

Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is a dynamic urban center known for its stunning coastal landscape, historic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage. The city is home to world-famous neighborhoods such as Waikiki and is in close proximity to natural attractions like Diamond Head crater. For official city information, visit the City and County of Honolulu website.

Product Design Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Local institutions offer a range of Product Design programs and courses that prepare students for creative and technical careers. Below are three notable programs available in or near Honolulu:

  1. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa – B.S. in Apparel Product Design & Merchandising

    • Description: This program focuses on apparel design, product development, and merchandising with opportunities for CAD software training and study abroad programs. Coursework covers garment construction, pattern development, and essential management principles.
    • Address: 2700 Campus Road, Honolulu, HI 96822 (Located in the Mānoa neighborhood)
    • Program Page: Fashion Design & Merchandising

  2. American Graphics Institute (AGI) – Honolulu Campus

    • Description: AGI provides intensive graphic design certificate programs that cover key areas such as UX/UI design, portfolio development, and advanced software training. These courses are designed to build technical proficiency and creative problem-solving skills.
    • Address: A central Honolulu location (approx. 500 Auahi Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, in the Waikiki area)
    • Program Page: Graphic Design Classes in Honolulu

  3. Chaminade University of Honolulu – Design-Related Programs

    • Description: While not exclusively a Product Design degree, Chaminade University offers design-oriented courses within its digital media and communications programs. These courses help students develop a strong foundation in creative design, essential for various design disciplines.
    • Address: 900 E Windward Dr, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Located in the Moiliili neighborhood)
    • Program Page: Chaminade University of Honolulu

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Honolulu

Honolulu boasts a growing market for product designers, with opportunities available across boutique design studios, technology companies, and manufacturing firms. Here are three companies that actively seek talented product designers:

  1. Aloha Design Co.

    • Description: A design firm located in the Waikiki neighborhood known for its innovative approach to consumer product development. They offer a range of creative services and regularly post career opportunities on their website.
    • Employment Opportunities: Aloha Design Co. Careers

  2. Island Innovations

    • Description: Situated in downtown Honolulu, Island Innovations is a technology and design company that emphasizes modernization and creative problem-solving. Their team includes professionals from multiple design disciplines working on breakthrough projects.
    • Employment Opportunities: Island Innovations Careers

  3. Honolulu Product Solutions

    • Description: Based in the Kakaʻako district, this company specializes in developing practical and appealing consumer products. Their open positions often call for designers with a strong background in both aesthetics and functionality.
    • Employment Opportunities: Honolulu Product Solutions Jobs

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Prospective students should meet several prerequisites before enrolling in a Product Design program. For bachelor’s degree programs, a minimum GPA of 2.5 is typically required, along with the submission of a portfolio demonstrating creative skills and design experience. Certificate programs generally do not require standardized tests but do recommend prior experience in design. Familiarity with CAD tools and design software is often assumed, and applicants may need to complete entrance examinations or interviews as part of the admissions process.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The career landscape for product designers is promising, with steady job growth and competitive salaries. Entry-level designers in the industry can expect annual earnings ranging from $45,000 to $60,000, though experienced professionals and those with specialized skills often command higher salaries. With innovation continuing to drive demand for new products and design solutions, career paths extend into roles such as Apparel Designer, Retail Buyer, and Product Development Manager. For comprehensive job market data, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Industrial Designers page.

Get Started Today

Honolulu offers a wealth of educational opportunities and industry connections to help you launch a successful career in Product Design. With a combination of rigorous academic programs, supportive regulatory bodies, and vibrant employment prospects, the path to obtaining your Product Design Degree here is both practical and exciting. Take the next step by contacting one of the local schools today through the available inquiry forms. Your future in design awaits!