The Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies is intended for students who are interested in understanding the role of design and material culture within a broad social, political and cultural discourse. The program takes as its formative assumption that design is everywhere, from the smallest objects around people to the cities and landscapes they inhabit, and, that along with visual images, constitutes a vital language with which they as a society express their values and desires.

Design Studies graduates will be prepared for career opportunities as researchers and administrators in the design field, working with private and public agencies. They will also be academically prepared to enter M.A. and Ph.D. programs in design studies or design history.