Product Design Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Getting a Product Design Degree in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Pursuing a Product Design Degree in Milwaukee, Wisconsin offers an education that merges artistic creativity with engineering precision and market strategy. Product Design is a multidisciplinary field focused on developing user-centered products through comprehensive courses in design research methods, 3D visualization tools, and design for manufacturing. Students can opt for various degree paths, including a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS), each with specialized tracks in human-centered design, sustainable design, and user experience (UX) design.

Aspiring product designers in Milwaukee can benefit from guidance provided by state and federal educational bodies. For instance, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) regulates higher education standards, while the U.S. Department of Education and National Center for Education Statistics offer additional resources.

About Milwaukee

Milwaukee, located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, is Wisconsin’s largest city and a thriving hub for art and industry. The city is known for its architectural landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and rich cultural heritage. For more detailed municipal information, visit the official City of Milwaukee website. Local attractions such as the Milwaukee Art Museum and Historic Third Ward provide a creative backdrop that complements the city’s educational environment.

Product Design Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Below is a list of schools offering Product Design programs and courses within or nearby Milwaukee:

  1. Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD)

    • Program: BFA in Product Design
    • Location: 550 N 3rd St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (located in the Historic Third Ward)
    • Description: MIAD emphasizes human-centered design and industry-sponsored projects, preparing students for practical challenges in product design.
    • Website: MIAD Product Design Program

  2. University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee (UWM)

    • Program: Courses and foundational studies in design and industrial design integrated within related programs
    • Location: 600 N 1st St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (situated in downtown Milwaukee)
    • Description: UWM provides a blend of technical and artistic coursework designed to foster innovation in product design. Check the design or engineering department for detailed course offerings.
    • Website: UWM Official Website

  3. University of Wisconsin – Stout

    • Program: BFA in Industrial & Product Design
    • Location: 1 University Dr, Menomonie, WI 54751 (approximately 130 miles from Milwaukee)
    • Description: UW-Stout is renowned for its NASAD-accredited program with a strong emphasis on design for manufacturing and mandatory internship coursework. This program is ideal for students willing to commute or relocate for specialized education.
    • Website: UW-Stout Product Design Program

Product Design Employment Opportunities in Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s local economy includes several companies and design firms that actively seek skilled product designers. Here are some notable employers:

  • Harley-Davidson

    • Description: A world-renowned manufacturer known for its innovative motorcycle designs and strong engineering heritage. Harley-Davidson offers opportunities for product designers, particularly in areas such as materials innovation and ergonomic design.
    • Location: Based in Milwaukee; please refer to their careers page for specific neighborhood information.
    • Website: Harley-Davidson Careers

  • Rockwell Automation

    • Description: Specializing in industrial automation technology, Rockwell Automation leverages product design expertise to improve manufacturing efficiency and user interface design. Their work environment fosters a collaboration between mechanical design and digital innovation.
    • Location: 20 W Riverfront Plaza, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (located in downtown Milwaukee)
    • Website: Rockwell Automation Official Website

  • Milwaukee Tool

    • Description: A leading manufacturer of robust hand and power tools, Milwaukee Tool focuses on product innovation and ergonomic design. This company values design ingenuity and practical functionality in its product development process.
    • Location: 4000 Milwaukee Rd, Brookfield, WI (approximately 10 miles from Milwaukee)
    • Website: Milwaukee Tool Official Website

Prerequisites for Product Design Programs

Prospective students should be prepared to meet various admission requirements that are common among Product Design programs:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Portfolio Submission: BFA programs, such as the one at UW-Stout, typically require a portfolio showcasing creative and technical work.
  • Standardized Tests: Some programs may require standardized test scores. For example, one program lists a minimum ACT score of 21 and an SAT score of 1425 in related fields.
  • Minimum GPA: A minimum GPA, such as 2.5 required by UW-Stout, is often expected.
  • Additional Requirements: Interviews or entrance exams might also be part of the application process.

Students are encouraged to check with individual institutions for detailed prerequisites and application procedures.

Career Outlook for Product Designers

The job market for product designers remains robust, with diverse career opportunities across manufacturing, technology, and consumer goods sectors. Common job titles include Industrial Designer, with an average salary around $63,500 per year, and UX/UI Designer, where salaries can average around $85,000 per year. The field is expected to experience steady growth, driven by advances in technology and an increasing focus on sustainable and user-centered design practices. For more detailed occupational statistics, consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Industrial Designers.

Get Started Today

Milwaukee offers a wealth of educational resources, employment opportunities, and professional guidance for aspiring product designers. With several accredited programs and a supportive network of industry partners and regulatory agencies, students are well-equipped to embark on a fulfilling career. Contact a school today through the forms on their pages to begin your journey toward a rewarding career in Product Design.

[START Additional Resources]

  • Milwaukee Public Schools: Oversees K-12 education and career pathways.

  • Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors – Education Committee: Supports county-wide educational initiatives.

  • Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI): Regulates higher education standards.

  • U.S. Department of Education: Provides oversight and funding for educational programs.

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

  • Milwaukee Design Community: Offers networking events and workshops for local designers.

[END Additional Resources]