Product Design Programs in Irving, Texas

Getting a Product Design Degree in Irving, Texas

Earning a Product Design degree unlocks opportunities to blend creativity with technical expertise. Product Design combines aspects of art, engineering, and user experience to develop innovative products. Educational paths vary, ranging from Associate of Applied Science (AAS) programs focusing on experience design and user interface (UX/UI) to graduate programs emphasizing product design and innovation. This guide explains local pathways, available courses, and the necessary steps to pursue a Product Design Degree in Irving, Texas.

About Irving, Texas

Irving is a thriving city in Dallas County known for its diverse neighborhoods and strong economic base. Home to landmarks such as the Las Colinas area and a well-established cultural scene, Irving offers an inspiring backdrop for future designers. For official city information, visit the City of Irving website. Local educational oversight is provided by the Irving Independent School District, ensuring foundational education for the community.

Product Design Programs in Irving, Texas

While Irving itself has limited higher education offerings in Product Design, several nearby institutions provide robust programs:

  1. Dallas College – AAS in Experience Design/User Interface

    • Program Focus: Emphasizes digital imaging, user interface design, and interaction design.
    • Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED, TSI compliance (no SAT/ACT required).
    • Tuition Details: In-state tuition is $2,400 per semester (2024).
    • Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
    • Location & Address: North Lake College campus, situated in the heart of Irving’s Las Colinas neighborhood.
    • Program Link: Dallas College UX/UI Program

  2. SMU Lyle School of Engineering – MA in Design and Innovation (Product Design)

    • Program Focus: Offers a master’s program concentrating on user-centered design and interdisciplinary collaboration with local enterprises.
    • Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree with a required portfolio; GRE scores are optional.
    • Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
    • Location & Address: Southern Methodist University is located in University Park, Dallas (approximately 12 miles from Irving).
    • Program Link: For more program details, visit SMU’s official website.

  3. University of Texas at Dallas – Product Design-Related Courses

    • Program Focus: Although not a dedicated Product Design degree, UT Dallas offers design-related courses through its School of Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication.
    • Admission Requirements: Vary by course and program level; prospective students should review specific prerequisites.
    • Location & Address: Located at 800 W Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX 75080 (approximately 10 miles from Irving) in the Richardson neighborhood.
    • Program Link: Visit the UT Dallas website to explore available courses and related programs.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Irving, Texas

Local and regional companies provide a range of opportunities for Product Design graduates:

  • AT&T

    • Overview: A leading telecommunications provider with significant operations in the Las Colinas area.
    • Employment Opportunities: Job openings for roles involving product design and user experience can be found on their careers page.
    • Location & Neighborhood: Based in the Las Colinas neighborhood of Irving.
    • Website: AT&T Careers

  • Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

    • Overview: A global technology firm with innovative product development teams that welcome design professionals.
    • Employment Opportunities: Positions in product design and user experience are periodically available.
    • Location & Neighborhood: Located in Plano, TX (approximately 15 miles from Irving).
    • Website: HPE Official Site

  • Gensler

    • Overview: An internationally recognized design and architecture firm with a strong presence in the Dallas area.
    • Employment Opportunities: Offers roles in product design and creative consulting.
    • Location & Neighborhood: Their Dallas office is situated near downtown (roughly 12 miles from Irving).
    • Website: Gensler

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in a Product Design program include:

  • Education Requirements: A high school diploma or GED for associate programs; a completed bachelor’s degree for graduate studies.
  • Portfolio Submission: Most programs require a portfolio that demonstrates creative and technical skills.
  • Entrance Exams: While some AAS programs do not require SAT/ACT scores, graduate programs like the MA at SMU may consider GRE scores optionally.
  • Additional Criteria: Programs such as Dallas College’s AAS require TSI compliance prior to enrollment.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for Product Designers remains promising, with rising demand for professionals who can merge aesthetics with user-friendly functionality.

  • Average Salaries: Entry-level positions range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, while experienced designers can earn between $80,000 and $110,000 per year.
  • Job Growth Projections: Opportunities in UX/UI design, interaction design, and product innovation are expected to expand as technology and consumer needs evolve.
  • Career Paths: Graduates may pursue roles as UX/UI Designers, Product Designers, or Interaction Designers.
    For more detailed labor market and employment statistics, visit the Industrial Designers job outlook page on BLS.gov.

Get Started Today

Exploring local Product Design programs in Irving, Texas, and nearby areas can pave the way for a successful career in design. Comprehensive educational pathways, industry-accredited programs, and a supportive local business environment await prospective students. Contact a school today through the available inquiry forms on their websites to take the next step toward a fulfilling educational journey in Product Design.