Product Design Programs in Spokane, Washington

Getting a Product Design Degree in Spokane, Washington

Earning a Product Design Degree in Spokane, Washington opens doors to a range of creative and technical careers. Product Design involves developing practical, user-focused solutions by combining art, engineering, and business principles. Educational paths vary from an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in CAD Design and Drafting, which emphasizes hands-on skills, to Bachelor’s degrees in Industrial and Product Design that balance theoretical knowledge with portfolio development.

About Spokane

Spokane is a dynamic city in eastern Washington known for its rich cultural heritage, historic neighborhoods, and landmarks such as Riverfront Park and the Spokane Falls. For more information about the city, visit the official Spokane website. This guide integrates key local and state resources with detailed educational options, ensuring you have the information needed to navigate Product Design education in Spokane.

Product Design Programs in Spokane, Washington

Spokane Community College

  • Program: AAS in CAD Design and Drafting
  • Highlights: Emphasizes CAD drafting, solid modeling, 3D printing, and fabrication processes while offering hands-on training in fabrication labs. The program provides internship opportunities in manufacturing, aerospace, and engineering firms, and credits are transferable to Eastern Washington University.
  • Admission Requirements: No SAT/ACT required; while a portfolio is not explicitly mandated, hands-on project experience is emphasized.
  • Address & Neighborhood: 970 W. Magruder Dr., Spokane, WA 99217 – located in a central Spokane neighborhood.
  • Website: Spokane Community College

Western Washington University

  • Program: BS in Industrial Design (accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design [NASAD])
  • Highlights: Focuses on usability research, ergonomics, and materials science with a strong alumni network including professionals at companies like Nike, HP, and Microsoft.
  • Admission Requirements: Competitive GPA and a portfolio submission are required.
  • Address & Neighborhood: 516 7th Ave W, Bellingham, WA 98225 – situated in downtown Bellingham.
  • Distance from Spokane: Approximately 350 miles away.
  • Website: Western Washington University

Walla Walla University

  • Program: BA in Product Design
  • Highlights: Concentrates on human-centered design, problem-solving, and technical skills with an emphasis on portfolio development.
  • Admission Requirements: Varies by program with emphasis on academic performance and creative portfolio work.
  • Address & Neighborhood: 490 W 6th Avenue, College Place, WA 99324 – located in the core area of College Place.
  • Distance from Spokane: Approximately 140 miles away.
  • Website: Walla Walla University

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Spokane

Spokane’s employment landscape offers promising opportunities for aspiring product designers. Local and state-wide employers span aerospace, manufacturing, and high-technology sectors:

  • Itron Inc.

    • Overview: A leader in technology solutions, Itron hires product designers to develop innovative energy and water management systems.
    • Location: Based in Spokane Valley, an integral part of the greater Spokane area.
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore careers on their official careers page.

  • The Boeing Company

    • Overview: Renowned globally, Boeing recruits designers for roles that integrate advanced design and engineering in the aerospace sector.
    • Regional Impact: While Boeing’s primary facilities are located in other parts of Washington, opportunities for product designers are available throughout the state, including positions connected to Spokane’s manufacturing and engineering networks.
    • Employment Opportunities: Visit Boeing Careers for more information.

  • Weyerhaeuser

    • Overview: A major employer in Washington, Weyerhaeuser offers positions that blend product design with sustainable manufacturing practices.
    • Regional Impact: With a strong regional presence that influences the Spokane area’s business community, Weyerhaeuser’s design and engineering roles contribute significantly to local economic growth.
    • Employment Opportunities: Check out their opportunities on the Weyerhaeuser Careers page.

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in a Product Design program include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • For AAS programs, standardized tests (SAT/ACT) are usually not required.
  • For Bachelor’s degree programs, a competitive GPA and an admission portfolio are typically required.
  • Some programs may request entrance exams or supplementary materials showcasing prior coursework and hands-on projects.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers in Washington is robust. Entry-level positions, such as CAD drafters, have salary ranges between $45,000 and $60,000, while experienced product designers may earn between $70,000 and $100,000. Product designers can advance into roles in industrial design, user experience design, or even move into executive positions within design or engineering firms. To explore detailed statistics and projections, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics industrial designers page.

Additional Degree Requirements and Resources for Spokane

State Educational Regulatory Bodies:

  • Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC): Oversees state financial aid programs, including the State Work Study (SWS) program which connects students with paid internships aligned with their academic goals.

State-Specific Degree Information:

  • Degree Options:
    • AAS: CAD Design and Drafting at Spokane Community College.
    • Bachelor of Science: Industrial Design at Western Washington University.
    • Bachelor of Arts: Product Design at Walla Walla University.

Curriculum Highlights:

  • CAD Design and Drafting (AAS): Core courses in CAD drafting, solid modeling, 3D printing, and fabrication processes with hands-on labs and internship opportunities.
  • Industrial Design (BS): Courses focused on ergonomics, usability research, and materials science.
  • Product Design (BA): Emphasizes human-centered design, problem-solving, and portfolio development.

Professional Organizations:

  • Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA): Advocates for industrial design education and professional development.

Local and County-Level Resources:

  • Spokane Community College Design Clubs: These clubs offer networking and project collaboration opportunities.
  • Spokane County Workforce Development: Partners with local employers to create training programs that enhance industry readiness.

Get Started Today

With a variety of educational programs, supportive state resources, and promising employment opportunities, pursuing a Product Design Degree in Spokane, Washington is a strategic step toward a creative and impactful career. Whether you are drawn to hands-on CAD drafting or the more theoretical realms of industrial and product design, now is the time to explore your options. Contact your preferred school through their online forms and begin your journey in Product Design.