Product Design Programs in Overland Park, Kansas

Getting a Product Design Degree in Overland Park, Kansas

Individuals seeking a Product Design degree in Overland Park, Kansas, will discover a wealth of educational and career opportunities in this dynamic field. Product Design involves the conceptualization, creation, and testing of products, ranging from everyday household items to cutting-edge technological innovations. Educational paths in Product Design vary from undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs in Industrial or Product Design to Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees offered at community colleges. In Overland Park and nearby regions, prospective students should consider factors such as curriculum focus, admission requirements, and internship opportunities. Key degree options include the BFA in Industrial Design available at the University of Kansas and the BFA in Product Design offered by the Kansas City Art Institute, as well as design-related associate programs at Johnson County Community College.

About Overland Park, Kansas

Overland Park is a major city in Johnson County, renowned for its excellent educational institutions and thriving arts culture. The city, easily accessible via major highways, features a blend of modern neighborhoods and historical landmarks. For official information about local governance and community services, visit the City of Overland Park website.

Product Design Programs in Overland Park, Kansas

While Overland Park itself offers robust community college opportunities, students may also consider nearby institutions that specialize in Product Design. Below are three key schools offering relevant programs:

  1. Johnson County Community College (JCCC)

    • Program: Offers associate degrees and workforce training in design-related fields.
    • Address: 11045 W 85th St, Overland Park, KS 66223
    • Neighborhood: Located within the Overland Park area.
    • Description: JCCC provides hands-on training in design fundamentals, ideal for students seeking an applied science pathway. For more information, visit the JCCC official website.

  2. Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI)

    • Program: BFA in Product Design
    • Address: 4000 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64112
    • Neighborhood: Situated in a historic cultural district, approximately 15 miles from Overland Park.
    • Description: KCAI offers a design-intensive curriculum that emphasizes creative exploration in studio environments, including specialized courses like DesignSpace studios, materials and manufacturing studies, and mandatory internships. More details can be found on the KCAI Product Design program page.

  3. University of Kansas (KU) – School of Architecture, Design, and Planning

    • Program: BFA in Industrial Design
    • Address: 1451 Jayhawk Blvd, Lawrence, KS 66045
    • Neighborhood: Located in the vibrant college town of Lawrence, about 40 miles from Overland Park.
    • Description: KU’s program features a studio-based curriculum with core courses like ADS 320, design electives, and professional studies, preparing students for dynamic careers in product design. For more information, visit the University of Kansas industrial design curriculum page.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Overland Park, Kansas

Overland Park and its surrounding regions offer promising career opportunities for product designers. Some leading local employers include:

  • Insight 2 Design

    • Website: Insight 2 Design Employment Opportunities
    • Description: A local design firm in Overland Park that recruits industrial designers for innovative projects. Their roles often involve close collaboration with other creative professionals in central Overland Park.

  • Garmin

    • Website: Garmin Official Website
    • Description: Although based in nearby Olathe, Garmin employs product designers for its advanced tech products. The company is known for a performance-driven culture and is approximately 9 miles from Overland Park.

These organizations provide diverse opportunities in product design, ranging from entry-level positions to senior roles.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Prospective students should be prepared to meet the following typical admission requirements:

  • Portfolio Submission: Most BFA programs require a portfolio that showcases the applicant’s creative and technical skills. Both KU and KCAI mandate portfolio reviews.
  • GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 2.5 is typically expected for transfer students applying to programs such as the BFA at KU.
  • Standardized Tests: Freshman applicants may need to provide SAT/ACT scores.
  • Additional Resources and Regulatory Bodies:
    • Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools (USD 500): Oversees K-12 education (contact: (913) 279-2244; website). Note that Overland Park falls under the Johnson County school districts.
    • Johnson County Community College (JCCC): Offers associate degrees and design workforce training (contact: (913) 469-8500; website).
    • Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR): Governs state-funded universities including KU (contact: (785) 296-3421; website).
    • U.S. Department of Education: Provides federal oversight of education policies (website).
  • Accreditation: Programs are often accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (verify accreditation through the NASAD website).

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The career landscape for product designers is both challenging and filled with opportunity. According to recent data, entry-level product designers can expect salaries ranging from $55,000 to $70,000, while mid-career professionals may earn between $80,000 and $110,000. Rapid technological advancements and consumer demand drive steady job growth in this sector. Additionally, professional organizations like the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) offer networking, certification, and job listing services that support career development. For more detailed job outlook statistics, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Industrial Designers.

Get Started Today

The journey toward a successful career in Product Design begins with taking the first step toward higher education. With local and nearby institutions offering a variety of programs to suit different interests and career goals, there is never been a better time to pursue your passion. Explore program options, prepare your portfolio, and contact a school today through the available inquiry forms to kickstart your path in designing the future.