A Survey of Design STudies

Download the Syllabus here.

This course introduces students to a variety of perspectives and lenses through which to examine and evaluated design in the world. Students will consider design studies through theory and criticism of design, as well as applied to business administration, museum studies, and environmental studies. In addition, students will be encouraged to find evidence of and define design studies in areas that are uniquely suited to their individual areas of interest.

This course will provide students an opportunity to consider how they might apply design methods and processes to fields outside of design, and to gain insight into how designers work so they might more effectively work alongside them. Readings for the course will be focused on various theories of design, design studies and the future of design. Students will also be given assignments where they can apply these learned and discussed theories in a real and practical way. As an advised elective, this course is required for Design Studies majors who are sophomores in their major.