Product Development Prototyping
This program introduces students to product development and prototyping opportunities with emphasis on core design concepts, testing analysis, and rapid prototyping through the use of modern graphic software, laser scanning technology, and industry standard rapid prototyping equipment. This program is well suited for students looking for a career in product development, current professionals who want to update their skill level, as well as entrepreneurs interested in working to develop their own ideas and products.
Most rapid prototyping jobs are incorporated into different industrial positions but seem to mirror many of the duties of industrial designers. Industrial designers develop the concepts for manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances, and toys. They combine art, business, and engineering to make products that people use every day. Industrial designers focus on the user experience in creating style and function for a particular gadget or appliance.
Industrial designers work in offices in a variety of industries. Although industrial designers work primarily in offices, they may travel to testing facilities, design centers, clients’ exhibit sites, users’ homes or workplaces, and places where the product is manufactured.
What’s the Job Outlook for Industrial Designers?
Employment of industrial designers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2018 to 2028, slower than the average for all occupations. Consumer demand for new products and new product styles should sustain the demand for industrial designers. Those individuals that have rapid prototyping and 3D experience should see employment needs matching or exceeding the projected growth.
What’s Required to Complete the Product Development Prototyping Program?
An AAS in Product Development Prototyping from WCCCD requires 60 total credits. An Introduction to Rapid Prototyping: Short-Term Certificate requires 24 credits. An Advanced Rapid Prototyping: Short-Term Certificate requires 21 credits.
As a Product Development Prototyping student at WCCCD, you’ll take both general education courses and courses required for a Product Development Prototyping major.
Some students plan to transfer to a four-year college or university after earning their AAS. If that’s your goal, you might choose specific courses. Talk with your advisor about a personalized plan that meets your goals.
How Long Does it Take to Earn a Product Development Prototyping Degree?
Most Product Development Prototyping students take five semesters (2.5 years) to complete AAS degree prerequisites and required courses.
What Will I Learn as a Product Development Prototyping Student?
WCCCD Product Development Prototyping students learn core design concepts, testing analysis, and rapid prototyping through the use of modern graphic software, laser scanning technology, and industry standard rapid prototyping equipment. Courses cover a wide range of topics, including design concepts and rapid prototyping.
Recommended course sequence:
Where is WCCCD’s Product Development Prototyping Program Offered?
The Product Development Prototyping Program is offered at our Eastern Campus.
As a WCCCD student, you can take courses, use facilities, and get involved at any of our six locations.
Contact Info
Phone: 313-496-2600
Email: edaffairs@wcccd.edu
