Design Studies | design.ncsu.edu

Design Studies is a non-studio, liberal arts 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 properties of objects and environments as reflections of the social, historical, technological and physical contexts in which they are produced. It also presents the developmental role of design in shaping human values and experiences.

Undergraduate students unfamiliar with the breath of design and may eventually want to enter a professional degree program will be introduced to the range of career options in the fields of design. 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. Others wanting a more general education will develop an understanding of design and its relationship to the broader culture. Design studies offers three options: Design Studies, Design Studies with a Business Administration Concentration, and Design Studies with a Non-Profit Concentration.

Careers for Design Studies

Grantwriter
Intellectual Property, Rights
Historian
Researcher
Associate or assistant curator, writer, or research assistant
Media and Production Managers, associates
Events, Exhibits and Designer
Museum Director
Curator
Conservator
Collections Manager
Educator or Interpretor
Exhibits Manager, object handler
Public Programs Manager
Education Manager
Operations and Facilities Manager
Visitor Services Manager
Development Officer
Historic Site Manager
Historic Preservation Officer
Stage and Set Designer
Stage Manager
Production Supervisor
Dresser, Costumer, and Wardrobe assistants
Technicians, Directors and Stage Managers

Program Director

Careers for Design Studies