Welcome to the College of Design

The College of Design prepares designers who, in the broadest sense, shape the world.

Design education is more than an attempt to teach a set of technical skills. The environment - including the spaces in which people live and work, the products they consume, and the messages they receive - has a powerful impact on how humans function in a society. Good design requires attention and sensitivity to social, economic, political, cultural and behavioral issues. The aim of all curricula in the College of Design is to develop the designer's perception, knowledge, skills and problem-solving abilities.

The College of Design offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate study in architecture, art + design, graphic design, industrial design and graduate studies in landscape architecture, through several degree programs, including the Ph.D. in Design. The college employs a selective admissions process that ensures a highly motivated and diverse design community. As a result, entering design students consistently rank at the top of academic achievement at the University, and their graduation rate is the highest at NC State.

The Mission of the College

The College of Design integrates practical, ethical, and aesthetic thought and action to enhance the meaning and quality of life through the creation of knowledge informing the critical study of artifacts and places.

Visiting the College

The College of Design provides tours for prospective students interested in our undergraduate and graduate programs. Click here for tour dates, directions to the College, and parking information.