Product Design Programs in Arlington, Virginia

Getting a Product Design Degree in Arlington, Virginia

Pursuing a Product Design Degree in Arlington, Virginia opens myriad opportunities for those interested in creative careers. Product Design involves the study of design principles, technical drawing, computer-aided design (CAD) software, materials science, and human-centered design methodologies. Education paths include undergraduate degrees such as a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Industrial Design or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Product Design Engineering, alongside graduate and doctoral programs. Whether you opt for design courses focused on aesthetics or engineering-oriented product development, education in this field cultivates skills essential for innovative careers in product design. Thorough and up-to-date research supports these programs and underscores the employment potential in this dynamic industry.

About Arlington, Virginia

Arlington, Virginia is a thriving urban community known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to Washington, D.C. The city offers a blend of urban living with historical landmarks and bustling neighborhoods such as Crystal City and Clarendon. Visitors and residents can explore local attractions, and the city maintains a dedicated official website for community news and resources: Arlington Official Website. In addition to its modern amenities, Arlington is home to numerous public and private educational institutions that contribute to a strong culture of innovation and design.

Product Design Programs in Arlington, Virginia

Arlington and its surrounding areas provide several options for prospective product designers. Below is a list of three schools offering Product Design programs or courses:

  1. Marymount University

    • Address: 4001 Arlington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201 (Located in the heart of Arlington)
    • Program Details: Marymount University offers comprehensive design courses that prepare students for careers in product design. Their curriculum emphasizes both creative expression and technical skills, integrating portfolio development and practical design applications.
    • Website: Marymount University

  2. George Mason University

    • Address: 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Approximately 12 miles from Arlington, situated in Fairfax’s vibrant academic district)
    • Program Details: George Mason University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Industrial Design. This program focuses on design innovation, practical experience, and collaboration with design industry leaders, making it a compelling option for students willing to travel a short distance for a specialized education.
    • Website: George Mason University

  3. Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC)

    • Address: Arlington Campus – 2101 11th Street, Arlington, VA (Located within Arlington)
    • Program Details: NVCC provides courses in art and design that introduce students to product design fundamentals. The curriculum includes modules on CAD software, sustainable design practices, and design thinking, ideal for those seeking a flexible entry point into the field.
    • Website: NVCC

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Arlington, Virginia

Arlington is home to a thriving professional landscape where product designers are highly valued. Major organizations and design firms in the area actively seek skilled professionals. Notable employers include:

  • Amazon

    • Location: With offices in Arlington’s bustling Crystal City neighborhood, Amazon offers innovative positions where product designers contribute to cutting-edge retail technologies.
    • Website: Amazon

  • Lockheed Martin

    • Location: Situated in Arlington’s Crystal City, Lockheed Martin employs product designers to work on advanced technological projects in defense and aerospace.
    • Website: Lockheed Martin

  • General Dynamics

    • Location: Based in various parts of Arlington, General Dynamics offers roles for product design professionals in the manufacturing and defense sectors.
    • Website: General Dynamics

Prospective product designers in Arlington can also explore industry trends and employment statistics via the Bureau of Labor Statistics – Industrial Designers.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Enrollment in product design programs typically requires a blend of academic preparations and a strong creative portfolio. Common prerequisites include:

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Completion of high school-level courses in art, mathematics, or engineering.
    • A competitive SAT score, often ranging between 1335 and 1470 for top programs.
    • A portfolio demonstrating artistic and technical design work.
  • Graduate Programs:
    • Submission of GRE scores, as required by individual institutions.
    • An advanced portfolio highlighting professional design projects and innovative solutions.
    • Relevant work or academic experience in design or a related field.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers in Virginia remains promising, with competitive salary ranges and a variety of career pathways. Product Designers can expect:

  • Average Salaries:
    • Product Designers typically earn between $65,000 and $90,000 per year.
    • UX/UI Designers, with an emphasis on user-centric design, command salaries ranging from $75,000 to $110,000 per year.
  • Job Growth:
    • The industry projects steady growth due to continuous innovation in technology and design.
    • Graduates may pursue careers in various sectors, including manufacturing, technology, defense, and consumer goods.

For detailed employment data and forecasts, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics – Industrial Designers.

Educational Regulatory and Resource Bodies in Arlington, Virginia

Prospective students and educators should be aware of key regulatory and educational institutions that oversee academic programs in the region:

  • Arlington County Department of Libraries

  • Arlington County Public Schools (ACPS)

  • State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV)

    • Purpose: Regulates higher education institutions and degree programs across Virginia.
    • Website: SCHEV
    • Contact: (804) 225-2600

  • U.S. Department of Education

    • Purpose: Oversees national education policies and funding opportunities, with additional resources available through the College Scorecard.

State-Specific Degree Information and Professional Organizations

Types of Degrees Available

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Industrial Design (e.g., Virginia Commonwealth University).
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Product Design Engineering (e.g., Virginia Tech).
  • Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Product Design (e.g., University of Virginia).
  • Doctoral Programs in Design Studies (e.g., Virginia Tech).

Admission Requirements and Curriculum Details

  • Undergraduate Admissions:
    • SAT scores averaging between 1335 and 1470.
    • Submission of a creative portfolio.
    • Background in art, math, or engineering.
  • Graduate Admissions:
    • GRE scores, which vary by institution.
    • A portfolio showcasing advanced design skills.
  • Curriculum Requirements:
    • Courses in design principles, CAD software usage (such as SolidWorks and Rhino), and materials science.
    • Specializations in sustainable design, UX/UI design, and product prototyping.
    • Required internships, with programs like Virginia Tech’s Product Design Engineering providing practical experience.

Accreditation Information

Professional Organizations

  • Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA):
    • Purpose: Advocates for professionals in industrial and product design.
    • Website: IDSA
  • Product Development and Management Association (PDMA):
    • Purpose: Focuses on product lifecycle management and professional certifications such as the New Product Development Professional (NPDP).
    • Website: PDMA

State-Level and Local Financial and Business Resources

  • Virginia Small Business Development Centers:

    • Website: Virginia SBDC
    • Description: Offers workshops on product development and market research.

  • Arlington Economic Development:

    • Website: Arlington Economic Development
    • Description: Provides grant opportunities and business support for startups, especially within tech and design sectors.

Get Started Today

The educational and career pathways in product design are both diverse and promising in Arlington, Virginia. With dynamic programs, robust professional organizations, and a supportive local infrastructure, aspiring product designers are encouraged to take the next step. Contact a school today through the forms available on their websites to launch your journey in product design education.