Product Design Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina

Getting a Product Design Degree in Charlotte, North Carolina

Individuals interested in embarking on a career in Product Design will find Charlotte, North Carolina, an exciting place to pursue this field. Product Design encompasses creating innovative and user-friendly products through aesthetic and functional solutions. Students can follow multiple education paths, including degree programs, boot camps, and specialized courses. It is important to note that prospective students should also consult with local educational regulatory bodies such as Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) (contact: (980) 343-3000) and the North Carolina State Board of Education (contact: (919) 807-3300) for K-12 and higher education guidance. Federal oversight is provided by the U.S. Department of Education, ensuring adherence to national standards and funding criteria.

About Charlotte

Charlotte is a dynamic city known for its rich history, extensive arts scene, and a growing technology and design sector. The city’s official website, available at https://charlottenc.gov/, offers comprehensive resources for residents and prospective students. Prominent neighborhoods such as University City and South End host esteemed educational and professional institutions, making Charlotte an ideal setting for studies in Product Design and creative innovation.

Product Design Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina

Below are three key institutions offering courses and programs in Product Design. Two are local, while the third is located nearby, providing additional options for prospective students:

  1. University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte)

    • Program(s): BFA in Graphic Design and Product Design Boot Camp
    • Address: 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28223
    • Neighborhood: University City
    • Details: UNC Charlotte provides a 120-credit BFA program with specializations in UX/UI, digital design, and motion graphics. Their intensive Product Design Boot Camp (powered by Flatiron School) focuses on Figma, user research, and capstone projects. Entry into these programs typically requires portfolio submission and standardized test scores (SAT of around 1180 for their undergraduate programs). For more details, visit the UNC Charlotte Product Design Boot Camp.

  2. Central Piedmont Community College

    • Program(s): Associate programs featuring design courses and related creative studies
    • Address: 600 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28202
    • Neighborhood: Uptown Charlotte
    • Details: Central Piedmont Community College offers a variety of courses in digital media and design fundamentals. Though not exclusively labeled as “Product Design,” courses here provide a strong foundation in design principles that underpin Product Design education.

  3. North Carolina State University (NC State)

    • Program(s): STEM-designated Master of Graphic and Experience Design (MGXD)
    • Address: 919 W Cameron St, Raleigh, NC 27607
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Raleigh
    • Distance: Approximately 140 miles from Charlotte
    • Details: NC State stands out for its advanced design programs, including NASAD-accredited graduate studies designed to push the boundaries of product and experiential design. This program requires GRE scores in some cases, along with a thorough portfolio review. Visit the NC State Design website for more information.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte’s expanding economic landscape includes numerous companies that seek skilled product designers. Major employers in the area span various industries, including tech, retail, and healthcare:

  • Amazon

    • Website: Amazon Jobs
    • Neighborhood: South End, Charlotte
    • Details: Amazon maintains a strong presence in Charlotte, hiring product designers for roles that focus on user-experience and digital interfaces.

  • Lowe’s

    • Website: Lowe’s Careers
    • Distance: Corporate headquarters are in Mooresville, NC, approximately 25 miles from Charlotte
    • Details: Lowe’s, known for its design-oriented retail solutions, offers opportunities that blend product design with practical applications in home improvement and consumer goods.

  • Novant Health

    • Website: Novant Health Careers
    • Neighborhood: University City, Charlotte
    • Details: Operating in the healthcare sector, Novant Health recruits product designers to enhance patient-focused technologies and improve overall user interfaces in medical devices and applications.

For additional details on job prospects and employment trends for product designers, check the job outlook for Industrial Designers on the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Applicants to Product Design programs generally meet a set of prerequisites to ensure academic and creative preparedness:

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
    • Standardized test scores (SAT around 1180 for UNC Charlotte) may be required.
    • Submission of a portfolio showcasing creative work in design.
  • Graduate Programs:
    • A completed undergraduate degree and, in some cases, GRE scores.
    • A comprehensive portfolio review is standard for advanced design programs.
  • General Requirements:
    • Courses typically cover design principles, typography, UX/UI strategies, and hands-on research and practical experience.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The demand for skilled product designers continues to grow as businesses prioritize innovative and user-centric product development. Entry-level positions generally offer salaries ranging from $55,000 to $70,000, while experienced designers can expect salaries between $80,000 and $110,000. As industries evolve, Product Design professionals may find roles in industrial, UX/UI, and design research fields. For current statistics and projections, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Industrial Designers.

Get Started Today

Charlotte offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring product designers. Whether you choose to dive into a comprehensive degree program at institutions like UNC Charlotte or explore intensive boot camps and associate courses, the path to a successful career in Product Design is well supported by local academic institutions, regulatory bodies, and employment opportunities. Prospective students are encouraged to contact these schools directly through their inquiry forms to begin their journey toward a rewarding career in Product Design.