Product Design Programs in Memphis, Tennessee

Getting a Product Design Degree in Memphis, Tennessee

Pursuing a Product Design degree in Memphis, Tennessee offers students a foundation in designing innovative products and systems. Product Design encompasses various disciplines—from graphic design and digital illustration to CAD technology and mechanical design. Educational paths include certificates and diplomas that focus on practical skills, as well as potential advanced study options. In Memphis, programs like those offered by the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Memphis provide industry-relevant curricula integrated with internship opportunities.

Whether you aim to work as a graphic designer or a CAD technician, product design education covers core subjects such as visual communication, technical drawing, and solid modeling. As you embark on your journey, you will benefit from guidance provided by local and state educational agencies, including Memphis City Schools, Shelby County Schools, and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.

About Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is a culturally rich and historic city located along the Mississippi River. Notable for landmarks like Beale Street and the National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis offers a dynamic backdrop for creative studies. For official city details, refer to the Memphis official website. Residents and students enjoy diverse neighborhoods—from Downtown to Midtown—each contributing to a creative and industrious community ideal for art and design professionals.

Product Design Programs in Memphis, Tennessee

Several local institutions offer Product Design programs and related courses. Below is a current list of three schools:

  1. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Memphis

    • Program Details: Offers certificates in Digital Graphic Design (1,296 clock hours) and Computer Aided Design Technology (1,728 clock hours) as well as diploma programs. Specializations include Graphic Design—focusing on digital illustration, multimedia, and Adobe certifications—and CAD Technology, which covers drafting, mechanical design, and additive manufacturing.
    • Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, a portfolio submission for graphic design programs, and basic computer skills, with no standardized test requirements.
    • Accreditation: Programs are accredited by the Council on Occupational Education with opportunities to obtain Adobe Certified Expert credentials.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in Downtown Memphis, visit the TCAT Memphis website for specific location details.

  2. University of Memphis

    • Program Details: While Bachelor’s or Master’s Product Design degrees are not explicitly featured, the University of Memphis offers related courses in design and the arts that provide a solid foundation for a career in product development.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Situated in Midtown Memphis at 3750 Alumni Ave, Memphis, TN 38152. Check out the University of Memphis website for more information on their design offerings.

  3. LeMoyne-Owen College

    • Program Details: This college offers foundational courses in art studies that support creative careers and complement product design education. Although not exclusively a Product Design program, the institution has courses in graphic design and visual arts beneficial to aspiring designers.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in the Orange Mound area at 1600 East Parkway, Memphis, TN 38106. For additional details, please visit the LeMoyne-Owen College website.

If you are interested in specialized Product Design coursework and do not find sufficient options within Memphis itself, additional programs in the surrounding areas are available. Be sure to verify distances and contact the schools for the most current information.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis hosts several major companies that seek skilled product designers. Here are a few opportunities in the area:

  • FedEx

    • About the Company: Headquartered in Memphis, FedEx is a multinational delivery services company that often seeks designers to work on packaging, logistics systems, and digital interfaces.
    • Location: Based in the southern part of Memphis near the airport, FedEx serves a global market while supporting local careers.
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore opportunities on the official FedEx Careers page.

  • AutoZone

    • About the Company: With a corporate headquarters in the East Memphis area, AutoZone hires product designers for technical illustration roles and product development within the automotive industry.
    • Location: Situated in East Memphis, AutoZone is a leading retail automotive parts distributor with a strong design team.
    • Employment Opportunities: Visit the AutoZone Jobs page for current career openings.

Additional local design firms and creative agencies in Memphis continue to emerge, offering a range of roles from digital design to industrial innovation.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Prospective students should be aware of common prerequisites before enrolling in Product Design programs:

  • Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required.
  • Portfolio Submission: Applicants for graphic design tracks may need to submit a portfolio that highlights creative projects.
  • Technical Skills: For CAD technology programs, basic computer skills and a familiarity with design software are expected.
  • Entrance Exams: No standardized test requirements apply for TCAT Memphis programs.

For more detailed guidance on regulations and educational policies, refer to local agencies such as Memphis City Schools (website, phone: (901) 416-5300) and Shelby County Schools (website, phone: (901) 416-5300). State oversight is provided by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (website, phone: (615) 741-3605) and federal policies are maintained by the U.S. Department of Education (website).

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers in Tennessee, including those specializing in graphic design and CAD technology, remains promising. According to industry data:

  • Graphic Designers typically earn a median salary of approximately $54,000 per year.
  • CAD Technicians have a median salary near $48,000 per year.
  • Career paths in the field range from working in design agencies to securing positions with large corporations like FedEx and AutoZone, as well as freelance opportunities.

For broader industry statistics and job growth projections, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Industrial Designers.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a Product Design degree in Memphis, Tennessee, can be the first step toward an innovative and fulfilling career. With programs designed to equip you with both creative insight and technical expertise, you can look forward to versatile opportunities in the industry. Contact a school today using the available forms on their websites to start your journey toward becoming a proficient product designer.