Product Design Programs in Kansas City, Kansas

Getting a Product Design Degree in Kansas City, Kansas

Earning a Product Design Degree offers creative professionals a pathway to combine aesthetics with functionality in everyday objects. In Kansas City, Kansas, aspiring product designers can find multiple education paths—from undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs focusing on Industrial Design and Interaction Design, to graduate-level studies emphasizing sustainable manufacturing and human-centered innovation. This guide provides an overview of available programs, degree requirements, and the regulatory bodies that support education in Kansas City and throughout Kansas. For additional federal education oversight, visit the U.S. Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics.

About Kansas City, Kansas

Kansas City, Kansas is a dynamic urban center in Wyandotte County with close-knit neighborhoods and accessible transportation routes. Home to a mix of residential and commercial areas, the city is represented by local educational governance such as the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools (contact: (913) 279-2242) and the Wyandotte County Education Office. Visitors and residents alike benefit from nearby landmarks and recreational parks, making the city an attractive destination for students pursuing new educational vistas.

Product Design Programs in Kansas City, Kansas

While Kansas City, Kansas may have limited local degree programs in Product Design, several excellent options are available within a short distance. Below are three schools offering robust Product Design programs:

  1. University of Kansas (KU) – Lawrence, KS

    • Program: BFA in Design with an Industrial Design concentration and MA in Interaction Design
    • Address: 1208 W 15th St, Lawrence, KS 66045
    • Neighborhood: Central Lawrence
    • Details: KU offers state-of-the-art digital fabrication labs, design studios, and internships through facilities such as the East Hills Design-Build Center. This campus is approximately 40 miles from Kansas City, Kansas.
    • Website: KU Industrial Design Program

  2. Wichita State University – Wichita, KS

    • Program: Master’s in Industrial and Product Design
    • Address: 1845 Fairmount Ave, Wichita, KS 67260
    • Neighborhood: Near Midtown Wichita
    • Details: Emphasizing sustainable manufacturing and technical innovation, Wichita State University provides a 2-year graduate program ideal for professionals seeking advanced training. The campus is approximately 200 miles from Kansas City, Kansas.
    • Website: Wichita State University

  3. Kansas City Art Institute – Kansas City, MO

    • Program: Comprehensive courses in Product and Industrial Design
    • Address: 534 Oak Street, Kansas City, MO 64108
    • Neighborhood: Crossroads Arts District
    • Details: Although located just across the state border, the Kansas City Art Institute is only about 5–10 miles from Kansas City, Kansas. It offers specialized courses that blend fine arts with practical design training.
    • Website: Kansas City Art Institute

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Kansas City, Kansas

Kansas City and its surrounding areas host several design and manufacturing firms actively seeking skilled product designers. Key employers include:

  • Garmin International

    • Overview: Known for innovative GPS devices and wearable technology, Garmin frequently hires industrial and product designers to enhance its product lineup.
    • Location: Olathe, KS (approximately 25 miles from Kansas City, Kansas)
    • Website: Garmin International

  • Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies

    • Overview: This multinational conglomerate offers opportunities in product design and development with a focus on modern manufacturing technologies and process improvements.
    • Location: While specific neighborhood details vary, Honeywell maintains a significant presence in the regional manufacturing corridor.
    • Website: Honeywell

For a detailed job outlook and further insights into employment trends for Industrial Designers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Prospective students should be prepared to meet specific admission requirements common to many Product Design programs:

  • Undergraduate Requirements:
    • Portfolio submission with 10–15 pieces of original work
    • Minimum GPA of 2.5 (requirements may vary by institution)
  • Graduate Requirements:
    • GRE scores (optional for some programs such as Wichita State University)
    • Letters of recommendation and a personal statement
      Additionally, most programs require foundational courses in design studios, CAD software, and materials science, along with internships such as those available at KU’s East Hills Design-Build Center.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers is robust, with roles such as Industrial Designer and Product Manager in demand across various industries. According to recent data, the median salary for an Industrial Designer is approximately $62,500, while Product Managers can expect medians around $85,000. The field offers multiple career paths, including freelance design, corporate innovation departments, and specialized product development roles. For in-depth industry statistics and job growth projections, consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics on Industrial Designers.

Regulatory and Accreditation Resources

Aspiring product designers should also familiarize themselves with the following regulatory bodies and professional organizations:

Get Started Today

Kansas City, Kansas offers promising routes into a fulfilling career in Product Design. With diverse educational programs and a supportive network of local and regional resources, aspiring designers have everything they need to succeed. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to schools directly using the contact forms on each institution’s website and begin their journey toward a dynamic career in product design.