College of Visual and Performing Arts
Curriculum
The design studies program prepares students for impactful roles as design futurists, equipping them with the skills to contribute to research and development teams, organizational and project management, collaborative projects and other professional contexts in design. The curriculum is built around a structured four-year sequence that moves students from foundational coursework through advanced research and original inquiry. Core courses span design history, design thinking, creative problem solving, collaborative design, project management, research methods and the social and technological dimensions of design. Each student's path is informed by a required minor of study that acts as a disciplinary specialization, complemented by a combination of academic and studio electives in design.
- Design Discourse. Demonstrate an understanding of design as a research-driven, interdisciplinary field by analyzing current trends and proposing future directions within a global context.
- Design Research and Critical Thinking. Apply research methodologies, data analysis, and critical thinking skills to develop evidence-based knowledge that informs the approach to complex design challenges.
- Interdisciplinary Perspectives. Demonstrate an understanding of design’s broader role and impact by synthesizing knowledge from other academic disciplines to enrich design work across varied contexts.
- Ethical and Social Responsibility. Evaluate and address ethical considerations and the broader social, cultural and environmental impacts within design production, processes, research and industry practices.
- Effective Communication. Communicate research findings, conceptual ideas and innovative solutions clearly and effectively through written, visual and oral formats, tailoring communication to diverse audiences within and beyond design-related fields.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Design Living Learning Community
First-year design students may choose to live in our Design Learning Community, an academically and socially supportive residential environment on Main Campus.
Florence or London Semester
Spend a semester at Syracuse University’s center in Florence, Italy, or London, England. Or explore another study abroad destination through Syracuse Abroad, which offers more than 100 programs in over 60 countries.
VPA LA Semester
The VPA LA Semester is an immersive professional development program that provides you with the opportunity to work as an intern in Los Angeles while taking academic courses taught by LA professionals with expertise in their given disciplines. The program is designed to broaden your understanding of career opportunities and gain skills to network and succeed in your career.
Learn more about this program