The Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies is a non-studio based program that provides an interdisciplinary orientation to the history and theory of the design disciplines, material culture and design thinking. Design Studies focuses on the social, historical, technological and physical contexts in which design is produced. It presents the formative role of design in shaping human values and experiences.
Undergraduate students will be introduced to the breadth of the design disciplines expanding their awareness of design and the design process. Students can explore the range of career options in the fields of design through Design Studies concentrations in Non-Profits Studies, Business Administration. Individuals preparing for a graduate education in design theory and criticism, museum practice, business management, entrepreneurship or marketing in design may choose from courses suited to their unique objectives. Students who want more general education will develop an understanding of design and its intrinsic relationship to the broader culture.
Design Studies is:
- Open to students whose interests and talents in design are more general and/or cross-disciplinary than those in the specific student-based programs
- Broadly engaged in issues of material culture.
- Preparatory for later advanced study in the design professions
- A blend of aesthetic, cultural, historical, social, physical, technological, business and entrepreneurial knowledge
- Collaborative in providing the learning and background necessary for further study in archival and cultural preservation, museum practice, conversation, collections administration, costume and theatre design, criticism, research, and arts and nonprofits management
Design Studies is not a transitional program from which to transfer into one of the studio-based degree programs in the College of Design. Design Studies students who wish to change majors will need to apply for competing seats in the freshmen class of a studio-based program and are subject to the select admissions process that requires a portfolio review.
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