Product Design Programs in Kansas City, Missouri

Getting a Product Design Degree in Kansas City, Missouri

Earning a Product Design Degree in Kansas City, Missouri, offers aspiring designers a pathway to a rewarding creative career. Product Design involves the conception, development, and creation of consumer products that blend aesthetics, functionality, and technology. Whether you choose a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) route, reviewing local schools, courses, and admission requirements is essential to launching a successful career in product design.

About Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri, is a dynamic urban center celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, innovative design communities, and inspiring neighborhoods. From the bustling Crossroads Arts District to the historic West Bottoms, the city offers a unique backdrop for creative studies. For official city information, visit the Kansas City government website.

Product Design Programs in Kansas City, Missouri

Several institutions in and around Kansas City offer outstanding Product Design programs and courses. Below is a current list of schools providing focused education in product design:

  1. Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI)

    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Product Design
    • Location: 5200 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64110 (Crossroads Arts District)
    • Description: KCAI emphasizes sustainable design, UX/UI, and entrepreneurial strategies. Admissions require a portfolio showcasing creative work, with standardized tests considered but not mandatory. Tuition is approximately $43,900/year (2024). For more details, visit the KCAI official website.

  2. University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC)

    • Program: Design and Studio Art programs with elective courses in product design
    • Location: 1 University Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64110 (Downtown)
    • Description: UMKC provides a diverse creative curriculum suitable for students interested in integrating design theory with practical skills. Prospective students should review admission requirements and portfolio guidelines via the university’s design department page on the UMKC official website.

  3. University of Central Missouri (UCM)

    • Program: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Design and Drafting Technology with a Mechanical Design Technology option
    • Location: 200 University Ave, Warrensburg, MO 64093 (Approximately 35 miles from Kansas City)
    • Description: UCM’s program focuses on CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks), 3D printing, and mechanical drafting, with mandatory internships to ensure practical experience. Admission requires a high school diploma with math and science courses; although a portfolio is not explicitly required, it is highly encouraged. More information is available on the UCM official website.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Kansas City

Kansas City’s vibrant creative sector and manufacturing industries offer diverse employment opportunities for product designers. Major companies and organizations that hire product design professionals include:

  • Burns & McDonnell

    • Location: Downtown Kansas City, MO (e.g., near the West Bottoms)
    • Description: Burns & McDonnell is a leading engineering, architecture, and construction firm. They actively seek product design expertise for innovative projects. Visit their official website for employment opportunities.

  • Kansas City Design Center

    • Location: Positioned within Kansas City’s dynamic urban neighborhoods
    • Description: This organization promotes urban design and community partnerships, offering networking, collaborative projects, and professional development for product designers. For further details, see the Kansas City Design Center website.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for admission to a Product Design program include:

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers in Missouri is expanding, with roles such as mechanical designer earning between $65,000 and $90,000 per year and product designers between $70,000 and $100,000 per year. Graduates may also pursue advanced roles with graduate studies available through programs like UCM’s Master of Science in Technology or KCAI’s Master of Fine Arts in Design. For detailed employment statistics and job growth projections, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Getting Started Today

Embarking on a journey toward a Product Design Degree opens doors to a fulfilling career steeped in innovation and creativity. With multiple educational pathways, extensive local resources, and promising career opportunities, now is the ideal time to advance your education in product design. Contact your chosen school today through the forms on their websites to begin building your future in design.