Product Design Programs in Oregon

Getting a Product Design Degree in Oregon

Product Design is an interdisciplinary field that blends creativity with technical training to develop innovative solutions. Pursuing a Product Design Degree in Oregon offers students access to a wide variety of education paths, including Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and specialized Master’s programs. These programs integrate foundational design principles, practical training, and modern technologies, preparing graduates for dynamic careers in the design industry.

Why Study Product Design in Oregon

Oregon is renowned for its commitment to higher education and design innovation. The official state website, Oregon.gov, provides extensive resources and information for prospective students. In Oregon, entry-level industrial designers typically earn around $60,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning between $80,000 and $110,000 per year. According to projections on the Industrial Designers page on BLS.gov, industrial design jobs in Oregon are expected to grow by 3% by 2030. This combination of solid educational infrastructure and promising career prospects makes Oregon an attractive destination for Product Design training.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Before enrolling in Product Design programs, applicants should be aware of common prerequisites:

  • Educational Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, with many programs emphasizing a strong background in art and design fundamentals.
  • Portfolio Submissions: Most BFA programs, such as the University of Oregon’s Product Design BFA, require a portfolio review showcasing previous projects.
  • Entrance Exams and Interviews: Some graduate programs may require GRE scores (optional for the University of Oregon’s Sports Product Design program) and may schedule interviews.
  • Prerequisite Courses: Programs like those at Central Oregon Community College (COCC) may require courses such as DSGN 101 to ensure readiness for advanced design courses.

Typical Program Curriculum

Product Design Degree programs in Oregon feature comprehensive curricula that blend theory and practical experience. Common areas of study include:

  • Core Courses: Design thinking, user research, computer-aided design (CAD) software proficiency, and sustainability.
  • Specializations: Options include sports product design and UX/UI design.
  • Practical Training: Many programs integrate internship or co-op opportunities (as seen in COCC’s curriculum) and capstone projects.
  • Program Duration: Undergraduate programs typically span four years, while Master’s degrees usually require two years of study.

Product Design Programs in Oregon

Below is a list of top local schools offering Product Design programs:

  1. University of Oregon – Product Design BFA & Sports Product Design (Master’s Degree)

    • Location: 1585 E 13th Ave, Eugene, OR 97403
    • Program Details:
      • The BFA program requires a portfolio review, transcript submission, and prerequisite courses in art and design. Its curriculum covers design thinking, sustainability, and interdisciplinary collaboration, with the final year held in Portland.
      • The Master’s program in Sports Product Design requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field, portfolio submission, and optional GRE scores. It specializes in athletic performance, sustainability, and business strategies, preparing graduates for roles in footwear and equipment design.
    • Accreditation: Programs are overseen by regional bodies such as the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and receive guidance from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

  2. Central Oregon Community College (COCC) – Product Design

    • Location: 1510 NE College Ct, Bend, OR 97701
    • Program Details:
      • This program operates on an open enrollment basis and requires foundational courses (e.g., DSGN 101) for admission. The curriculum emphasizes 3D modeling, UX design, production techniques, and includes capstone projects and co-op opportunities.
    • Cost and Flexibility: Designed to be both accessible and affordable, COCC’s program offers practical training that meshes well with Oregon’s growing design industry.

These institutions not only provide rigorous academic training but also offer access to Oregon’s robust network of design industries and internship opportunities.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Oregon

Oregon is home to several major design firms and companies with dedicated product design departments. Notable examples include:

  • Nike, Inc.

    • Opportunities: Offers internships and full-time roles in footwear and apparel design through its dedicated design departments.
    • How to Apply: Visit Nike’s Careers Portal to explore current openings.

  • Columbia Sportswear

    • Opportunities: Focuses on product development, particularly with an emphasis on sustainability and innovation in sportswear.
    • How to Apply: Interested candidates can submit their resume and portfolio via Columbia Sportswear’s Careers Page.

These companies are major industry players with headquarters or significant operations in Oregon, contributing to a thriving job market aligned with BLS projections for industrial design growth.

Professional Certification Options

Enhancing credentials through professional certifications can significantly impact career advancement in Product Design. Relevant certification options include:

  • Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA):
    • Provides resources for networking, conferences, and professional development.
    • Visit the IDSA website to learn more about membership benefits and opportunities.
  • Design Management Institute (DMI):
    • Focuses on fostering design leadership and innovation.
    • More details can be found on the DMI website.

These organizations offer industry-recognized certifications and support continuous learning.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of a Product Design Degree in Oregon varies by institution. Prospective students can expect tuition ranges that are competitive with regional averages. For detailed financial information, students should review:

  • Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC): Learn more about state-funded higher education initiatives on the HECC website.
  • Federal Resources: The U.S. Department of Education offers the College Scorecard to compare programs.
  • Scholarships and Grants: Many schools provide scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to support design education.

These resources help students plan financially for their studies and take advantage of available aid.

Career Advancement and Continuing Education

Graduates of Product Design programs have numerous opportunities for career advancement. Some pathways include:

  • Further Education: Completing Master’s programs or specialized courses to deepen expertise in areas such as sports product design or UX/UI.
  • Professional Workshops and Conferences: Attending events like Portland Design Week helps professionals stay current with industry trends.
  • Networking through Professional Organizations: Membership in groups like IDSA and DMI can provide access to mentorship, advanced training, and industry awards.

Continuous education and networking are essential for staying competitive and innovative in the field of Product Design.

Get Started Today

The journey to becoming a skilled Product Designer begins with a commitment to quality design education and hands-on training. Oregon’s comprehensive programs, excellent industry connections, and robust career resources provide an outstanding environment for aspiring designers. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out and contact a school directly to find the perfect match for their educational and career aspirations. Take the first step toward a fulfilling career in Product Design today.