Product Design Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Getting a Product Design Degree in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Product Design is a dynamic field that combines creativity with technical skills to develop innovative products. Individuals interested in pursuing a Product Design Degree can choose from several education paths including undergraduate, associate, and graduate programs. Whether specializing in apparel design, digital media design, or interior design, education in this field provides a foundation in design principles, technical coursework, and industry practices. By integrating creative thinking with practical applications, Product Design programs prepare students for careers that demand both artistic vision and engineering precision.

In Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, prospective students will find a growing interest in Product Design programs and an expanding range of course offerings that cater to the evolving needs of the industry. Explore your options and learn how local educational resources, professional organizations, and employment opportunities make Oklahoma City a promising location for a career in Product Design.

About Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is a major cultural and economic hub in the state of Oklahoma. Known for its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, the city offers a blend of urban sophistication and Midwestern charm. For official city information and updates, visit the City of Oklahoma City website. Local landmarks, such as the Bricktown District and the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, provide a creative backdrop that inspires many in the design fields.

Product Design Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Below are three educational institutions offering Product Design programs or closely related courses:

  1. Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC)

    • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Digital Media Design
    • Description: OCCC provides hands-on training in graphic design, animation, and digital photography, with a strong emphasis on practical application using industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite. The program offers internship opportunities to help students gain real-world experience.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 1201 W Reno Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73127 – Located in downtown Oklahoma City.
    • Website: Oklahoma City Community College Digital Media Design

  2. University of Central Oklahoma (UCO)

    • Program: While UCO does not have a dedicated Product Design program, its design and related courses are highly relevant for aspiring product designers.
    • Description: UCO offers courses that emphasize creative design techniques, digital media, and conceptual development. This program is ideal for students who wish to explore interdisciplinary approaches to design.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 100 N University Ave, Edmond, OK 73034 – Located in the heart of Edmond, approximately 20 miles north of Oklahoma City.
    • Website: University of Central Oklahoma

  3. Oklahoma State University (OSU)

    • Program: BS in Apparel Design and Technology; MS in Interior Design; PhD in Design and Merchandising
    • Description: OSU provides a comprehensive range of programs focused on design and merchandising. With state-of-the-art labs, industry partnerships, and options for study abroad, OSU offers robust training in both theoretical and applied design skills.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 100 Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078 – Located in Stillwater, approximately 80 miles north of Oklahoma City.
    • Website: Oklahoma State University Design & Merchandising

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City hosts several key employers that value the creative and technical expertise of product designers:

  • Ackerman McQueen

    • Description: A notable advertising agency with a strong presence in downtown Oklahoma City, Ackerman McQueen is known for its innovative campaigns and creative culture.
    • Neighborhood: Located in the downtown area.
    • Website: Ackerman McQueen

  • Love’s Travel Stop

    • Description: Although known primarily for its travel centers, Love’s Travel Stop also supports innovative design teams focused on product development and brand optimization within their operations.
    • Neighborhood: Operations are based in and around Oklahoma City.
    • Website: Love’s Travel Stop

For more detailed career statistics and job outlook information for industrial designers, please refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in a Product Design program include:

  • Undergraduate Programs: A high school diploma with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and SAT/ACT scores as required by the institution.
  • Graduate Programs: Submission of GRE scores (if required) and completion of a portfolio review to demonstrate design skills. For instance, Oklahoma State University requires a portfolio that showcases a range of creative projects.
  • Portfolio Requirements: A carefully curated collection of design work is essential across many programs, serving as a key factor in the admissions process.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers remains robust with opportunities across various industries including manufacturing, technology, and advertising. Entry-level positions as graphic or product designers typically offer starting salaries around $60,000, with experienced professionals earning between $60,000 and $90,000 per year. With a clear trajectory for growth and specialization, career paths include roles in design leadership, product development, and thematic consultancy. For additional details on career prospects, review the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Official Educational Regulatory Bodies and Degree-Specific Resources

Students in Oklahoma City can access a network of regulatory and oversight agencies to guide their academic journey:

State-Specific Degree Information

Oklahoma offers a variety of Product Design-related degree programs:

  • Bachelor of Science in Apparel Design and Technology at Oklahoma State University.
  • Associate of Applied Science in Digital Media Design at Oklahoma City Community College.
  • Master of Science in Interior Design at Oklahoma State University.
  • PhD in Design and Merchandising at Oklahoma State University.

Admission Requirements:

  • Undergraduate: Minimum GPA of 2.5, SAT/ACT scores, and a portfolio review.
  • Graduate: GRE scores (if required) and portfolio submission, with OSU emphasizing a strong design portfolio.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Core Courses: Coursework typically includes textiles, pattern-making, 3D digital product creation, graphic design, animation, and digital photography.
  • Specializations: Options include sustainable design and interactive media.
  • Accreditation: Programs are accredited by bodies such as the Textile and Apparel Programs Accreditation Commission (TAPAC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Professional Organizations:

  • Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA)
  • Product Development and Management Association (PDMA)
  • User Experience Professionals Association (UXPA)

Institution-Specific Information

Oklahoma State University (OSU) offers a variety of design and merchandising programs supported by state-of-the-art labs and industry partnerships.
Visit the OSU program page here.

Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) delivers practical training in digital media design, preparing students for real-world challenges with internship opportunities.
Learn more at OCCC Digital Media Design.

Get Started Today

The journey toward a successful career in Product Design begins with a solid educational foundation. With a variety of programs, robust extracurricular offerings, and comprehensive industry support, Oklahoma City is an excellent starting point. Take the first step by reaching out to your preferred institution and explore how their programs can help you achieve your career goals. Start your path to innovation and creativity today by contacting the schools directly through the provided forms on their pages.