The Bachelor of Arts Degree in 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 presents the formative role of design in shaping human values and experiences. This major is for students whose interests and talents in design are more general, cross-disciplinary, and span the five disciplines offered in the College of Design.
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 requirements a portfolio review.
Curriculum
The curriculum offers three paths:
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN DESIGN STUDIES
Includes Design Foundations, 30 hours of Advised Design Elections in three units, Application, Theory and History and an International Experience.
- Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies Eight Semester Display
- On the drop down menu for "Academic Program" choose "Design"
- Choose "Design Studies - BA" under "Academic Plan"
Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies Degree Audit Information
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN DESIGN STUDIES WITH A
CONCENTRATION IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Includes 15 hours of Business Administration courses equivalent to a minor taught by the College of Management. 15 hours of Advised Design Elections in the three units: Application, Theory and History and an International Experience.
- Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies with a concentration in Business Administration Eight Semester Display
- Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies with a concentration in Business Administration Degree Audit Information
- On the drop down menu for "Academic Program" choose "Design"
- Choose "Design Studies - BA Business Admin Concentration" under "Academic Plan"
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN DESIGN STUDIES WITH A
CONCENTRATION IN NON-PROFIT STUDIES
Includes 15 hours of Non-Profit courses equivalent to a minor in Non-Profit Studies taught by the College of Humanities and Social Science. 15 hours of Advised Design Elections in the three units: Application, Theory and History and an International Experience.
- Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies with a concentration in Nonprofit Studies Eight Semester Display
- Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies with a concentration in Nonprofit Studies Degree Audit Information
- On the drop down menu for "Academic Program" choose "Design"
- Choose "Design Studies - BA Nonprofit Studies Concentration" under "Academic Plan"
