Product Design Programs in Bellevue, Washington

Getting a Product Design Degree in Bellevue, Washington

Pursuing a Product Design Degree in Bellevue, Washington offers aspiring designers a pathway to mastering the art of designing innovative and functional products. Product Design encompasses the study of ideation, prototyping, and market introduction to create solutions that blend aesthetic appeal with usability. Individuals can choose from various education paths, including certificate programs and bachelor’s degrees, each offering a strong foundation in design principles and practical application. This guide outlines local education options, program prerequisites, and career opportunities available in Bellevue and nearby areas.

About Bellevue

Bellevue is a dynamic urban center located just east of Seattle in King County, Washington. Known for its thriving tech scene, diverse neighborhoods such as Downtown Bellevue and Eastgate, and modern infrastructure, the city provides an inspiring backdrop for creative professionals and students. For additional official information, please visit the City of Bellevue website.

Product Design Programs in Bellevue, Washington

Aspiring product designers in Bellevue have access to several local and nearby educational programs that meet a range of career goals and educational needs.

  • Bellevue College – Product Development and Innovation Certificate of Accomplishment
    • Address & Neighborhood: 3000 Landerholm Circle NE, Bellevue, WA 98007, located centrally in Bellevue.
    • Program Focus: This certificate program emphasizes product design, prototyping, and market introduction and is designed for those looking to quickly build practical skills.
    • Website & Contact: Bellevue College Product Development and Innovation Certificate
    • Overview: As part of King County’s local educational resources, this program offers hands-on experience in sustainable design and market research.

  • University of Washington – Bachelor of Design in Industrial Design, Interaction Design, and Visual Communication Design
    • Address & Neighborhood: 1953 NE Campus Pkwy, Seattle, WA 98195, located in the University District (approximately 10 miles from Bellevue).
    • Program Focus: This bachelor’s degree program focuses on both theoretical and practical aspects of product and industrial design. It includes core courses such as product development, prototyping techniques, and industry partnership projects with leaders like Microsoft and Boeing.
    • Website & Contact: University of Washington Bachelor of Design Admissions
    • Overview: With rigorous admission requirements such as a minimum 3.7 GPA and portfolio submissions for transfer students, this program offers a comprehensive design education.

  • Cornish College of the Arts – Design Programs
    • Address & Neighborhood: 2500 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, located in the Belltown neighborhood (about 10 miles from Bellevue).
    • Program Focus: While Cornish College of the Arts is known for its focus on creative arts, its design offerings integrate artistic exploration with technical skills needed in product design.
    • Website & Contact: Visit the Cornish College of the Arts website for detailed information on available courses and programs.
    • Overview: This institution provides an alternative pathway for students eager to blend creativity with applied design practices in a highly artistic environment.

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Bellevue

Bellevue is home to several top-tier companies and design-driven organizations that actively seek skilled product designers. Major employers include:

  • PACCAR Inc.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 1200 137th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004, located in the Eastgate area.
    • Overview: A global technology leader in the manufacturing of commercial vehicles, PACCAR offers opportunities in product design to innovate and enhance its product lines.
    • Website: Visit the PACCAR official website for career opportunities.

  • T-Mobile US
    • Address & Neighborhood: 1299 116th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98005, situated in the Montclair neighborhood.
    • Overview: T-Mobile’s Bellevue headquarters offers roles in product design that focus on improving customer experiences through innovative telecommunications products.
    • Website: Check out the T-Mobile official website for employment information.

  • Expedia Group
    • Address & Neighborhood: 1111 108th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004, located in the Factoria district.
    • Overview: With a strong emphasis on digital innovation, Expedia Group provides positions for product designers to develop and enhance digital travel platforms.
    • Website: Visit the Expedia Group official website to explore career opportunities.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Students interested in Product Design programs should be aware of common admission requirements:

  • For Bachelor’s Degrees (e.g., University of Washington):
    • Freshmen must complete DESgin 166 in Winter 2024 with a minimum GPA of 3.7 to achieve automatic admission.
    • Transfer applicants are required to submit a strong portfolio along with their application by May 31, 2025.

  • For Certificate Programs (e.g., Bellevue College):
    • Open enrollment policies apply with necessary prerequisite completions.
    • No standardized test requirements are typical, but a foundational knowledge of design may be expected.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers in Washington is competitive and full of opportunity. Industrial designers in the region earn an average salary of approximately $85,000 per year, while UX/UI designers can expect average salaries near $110,000 per year. Job growth is driven by innovations in technology and the constant demand for user-friendly product solutions. For detailed employment statistics and further career outlook information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Industrial Designers page.

Get Started Today

With robust educational programs and exciting career opportunities at your doorstep, prospective product designers in Bellevue have every reason to pursue further education in this field. Consider researching both local and nearby schools, reviewing program prerequisites, and exploring diverse employment prospects to find the path that best suits your career aspirations. Contact a school today through their online forms to take the first step toward a fulfilling career in product design.