Product Design Programs in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Getting a Product Design Degree in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Pursuing a Product Design degree offers a pathway to a creative and innovative career in designing consumer products, systems, and environments. This guide explains what Product Design is, explores different educational paths—from certificates to bachelor’s degrees—and provides a comprehensive overview of the process to earn your Product Design Degree in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

Product Design focuses on improving functionality, ergonomics, aesthetics, and user experience. Students may follow various educational tracks such as a Bachelor of Science in Textiles, Merchandising, and Design with an Apparel Design Concentration, Certificate programs in Computer Aided Design Technology, or a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology with a Product Development Concentration.

About Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Murfreesboro, a historic city in Rutherford County, offers a blend of tradition and forward-thinking innovation. With attractions like the Cannonsburgh area and a lively downtown district, the city provides a stimulating environment for creative professionals and students. For more details about the city, visit the official Murfreesboro website.

Product Design Programs in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Local educational institutions and nearby schools offer several Product Design programs and courses designed to meet a range of interests and career goals. Below is a current list of three schools that provide programs relevant to Product Design:

  1. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) – Apparel Design Concentration

    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Textiles, Merchandising, and Design with an Apparel Design Concentration
    • Curriculum: Core courses cover Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, and Apparel Construction with opportunities to specialize in Sustainable Design and Fashion Brand Management.
    • Accreditation: Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
    • Admission Requirements: Applicants must submit a portfolio (10–15 pieces of original work) and meet a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0 in TXMD courses.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in the heart of Murfreesboro, MTSU’s campus is easily accessible for local students. For more information, visit the MTSU Apparel Design program page.

  2. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Murfreesboro – CAD Program

    • Program: Certificate in Computer Aided Design Technology
    • Curriculum: The course focuses on key design software including AutoCAD, Revit, and SolidWorks, totaling 1,728 clock hours of practical training.
    • Accreditation: Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE).
    • Admission Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is required; placement test scores (ACT/SAT) are not mandatory.
    • Address & Neighborhood: TCAT Murfreesboro is centrally located in Murfreesboro’s downtown area at an accessible urban location. For further details, visit the TCAT Murfreesboro CAD Technology page.

  3. East Tennessee State University (ETSU) – Product Development Concentration

    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology with a Product Development Concentration
    • Curriculum: Students engage in courses on CAD, CNC Machining, and 3D Printing, culminating in a capstone project that emphasizes real-world product development challenges.
    • Accreditation: Accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
    • Admission Requirements: Applicants may submit ACT/SAT scores (optional for 2024 applicants) along with prerequisite courses in math and science.
    • Location Note: ETSU is located in Johnson City, approximately 160 miles from Murfreesboro, offering additional opportunities for students willing to commute or relocate. For more information, visit the ETSU Product Development page.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Murfreesboro is home to a range of employers actively seeking skilled product designers. Major companies in the region include well-known design-driven organizations that provide diverse career opportunities:

  • Under Armour
    Renowned for its performance apparel and gear, Under Armour offers roles for product designers involved in innovative design and technology. Visit the Under Armour official website for employment opportunities.

  • Zulily
    As a leader in e-commerce with a strong focus on creative product design, Zulily frequently seeks design talent to enhance its online shopping experience. Explore career options on the Zulily website.

  • Singer Viking Pfaff
    Specializing in industrial manufacturing solutions, Singer Viking Pfaff offers design positions for those with a keen understanding of technical product development. For more details, visit the Singer Viking Pfaff website.

These organizations provide work in modern, urban office environments, many of which are located in or near Murfreesboro’s central districts.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Prospective students in Product Design programs should be prepared to meet several common prerequisites:

  • Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required.
  • Portfolio Submissions: Programs such as MTSU require a portfolio of 10–15 original pieces that demonstrate creativity and technical skill.
  • Entrance Exams: ETSU may request ACT/SAT scores, although submission is optional for 2024 applicants.
  • Preparatory Coursework: Prerequisite courses in math and science are needed for programs with a technical focus, such as ETSU’s Product Development Concentration.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers remains promising with competitive salary ranges and diverse career paths. Typical positions include:

  • Product Designer: $65,000–$90,000/year
  • CAD Technician: $45,000–$65,000/year
  • Industrial Designer: $70,000–$100,000/year

Graduates can expect opportunities in technology, manufacturing, and creative industries. For additional details on job growth and industry trends, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Industrial Designers.

Get Started Today

Aspiring product designers are encouraged to take the next step in their educational journey by exploring these programs and opportunities. Contact an institution directly through the provided forms and begin paving your way toward a rewarding career in Product Design.

Additional Resources and Educational Regulatory Information

To further support your academic and career planning, consider these regulatory bodies and resources:

  • Murfreesboro City Schools
    Oversees K-12 education in Murfreesboro, including career and technical education pathways.
    Website: Murfreesboro City Schools | Contact: (615) 893-5810

  • Rutherford County Schools
    Manages K-12 education in Rutherford County with CTE programs aligned with local design and manufacturing industries.
    Website: Rutherford County Schools | Contact: (615) 893-5810

  • Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC)
    Regulates postsecondary education in Tennessee, overseeing program approvals and funding.
    Website: THEC | Contact: (615) 741-3600

  • U.S. Department of Education
    Provides national oversight on education policies and career and technical education initiatives.
    Website: U.S. Department of Education
    Additional Resources: Career and Technical Education

State-Level and Local Career Resources

  • Tennessee Department of Education CTE Programs
    Focuses on career pathways in manufacturing and design. Visit: Tennessee CTE Programs

  • MTSU Career Development Center
    Offers resume workshops, internship listings, and career counseling to help launch successful careers. More details can be found on the MTSU Career Development Center website.

  • Rutherford County Workforce Development
    Partners with local industries to provide job training programs and career development resources. Learn more at Rutherford County Workforce Development.

For insights into professional development and networking, consider joining the Product Development and Management Association (PDMA). PDMA advances product development practices through certifications, conferences, and job boards. Visit PDMA to learn more about membership benefits.