Product Design Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Getting a Product Design Degree in Des Moines, Iowa

A Product Design Degree prepares graduates with the skills to transform ideas into tangible products through creative and technical coursework. Within this field, students study design studios, prototyping, sustainable design, and UX/UI design, preparing them for roles ranging from product developer to interaction designer. There are multiple education paths available, including Bachelor of Industrial Design (BID), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design, and Master of Industrial Design (MID).

Product Design programs combine theoretical learning and real-world projects, with many requiring a robust portfolio, optional SAT/ACT scores for 2024, and a minimum GPA of 2.5 for undergraduate admissions. Accreditation from bodies such as the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD) ensures programs meet industry standards.

About Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines, located in Polk County, serves as Iowa’s capital and a key center for business, arts, and education. The city boasts dynamic neighborhoods and local landmarks, offering an excellent environment for creative professionals. For further information about city services and events, visit the official Des Moines website here. Local regulatory bodies include Des Moines Public Schools (phone: (515) 242-7700) and the Polk County Board of Education (phone: (515) 286-3700), ensuring a solid educational foundation for residents. The Iowa Department of Education (phone: (515) 281-5294) and the Iowa Board of Regents further support higher education initiatives statewide.

Product Design Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

While Des Moines offers strong opportunities for art and design studies, some institutions offering Product Design programs or equivalent courses are based nearby. Below is a list of key schools:

  1. Drake University

    • Program: BFA in Graphic Design (with design coursework applicable to product design).
    • Location & Address: Located in downtown Des Moines, in the Drake neighborhood at 2506 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311.
    • Description: Drake University provides an accredited design program that emphasizes internships, studio projects, and real-world design challenges. Explore the program details on the Drake University website.

  2. Iowa State University College of Design

    • Programs: Bachelor of Industrial Design (BID) and Master of Industrial Design (MID).
    • Location & Address: Situated in Ames at 1409 Hancock Street, Ames, IA 50010, approximately 35 miles from Des Moines.
    • Description: Renowned for its nationally ranked design curriculum, Iowa State University features studio spaces, sponsored projects, and an annual College of Design Career Fair, attracting over 125 recruiting firms. More information is available on the Iowa State University College of Design website.

  3. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)

    • Program: Offers design and technology courses that support a foundation in product design.
    • Location & Address: With campuses in the greater Des Moines area, DMACC’s West Des Moines Campus is located at 512 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266.
    • Description: DMACC provides a cost-effective introduction to design concepts, helping students build portfolios and gain practical experience before transferring to specialized degree programs. Visit the DMACC website for further details.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to several major firms and organizations offering career opportunities for product designers:

  • Principal Financial Group

    • Description: With offices in downtown Des Moines, Principal Financial Group seeks design talent for roles that blend aesthetics with user experience in financial product development.
    • Neighborhood & Address: Located near the East Village, prospective applicants can learn more on their official careers page.

  • Vermeer Corporation

    • Description: This manufacturing company is recognized for its innovative approach to product design and engineering.
    • Location & Distance: Based in Pella, Iowa at 200 Vermeer Road, Pella, IA 50219, approximately 50 miles from Des Moines. More details are available on the Vermeer Corporation website.

  • DSM Creative Hub

    • Description: As a city-specific professional organization, DSM Creative Hub connects designers with startups, tech firms, and design projects.
    • Neighborhood & Address: Located in the Warehouse District of Des Moines, it serves as a vital networking resource. Visit the DSM Creative Hub website for further information.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Prospective students should prepare to meet several common prerequisites:

  • Portfolio Submission: Essential for programs such as BID at Iowa State University and the BFA at Drake University.
  • Standardized Testing: SAT/ACT scores are optional for 2024 admissions.
  • Academic Requirements: A minimum GPA of 2.5 is typically expected.
  • Entrance Exams & Reviews: Some institutions may require additional assessments or portfolio reviews.

Additionally, the curriculum usually integrates core courses in design studios, prototyping, and business principles, with opportunities to specialize in sustainable or UX/UI design. Applicants are advised to verify detailed admission criteria on the institutions’ official websites.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers remains promising. According to recent data, product developers have a median salary of $77,400, while interaction designers earn approximately $85,800. Graduates benefit from a range of career paths in industries such as manufacturing, finance, and tech. For precise job outlook projections and further career resources, refer to the Industrial Designers page on the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Get Started Today

With a range of programs, rigorous curricula, and a supportive local ecosystem, Des Moines offers substantial opportunities for emerging product designers. Prospective students are encouraged to explore program details, review prerequisites, and connect with these institutions through the available contact forms. Embark on your design education journey and shape the future of innovative product design.