Design Studies, BS
This flexible program accommodates a wide range of interests and career paths with the design process as a focus. Parts of the program can be customized to meet your interests and goals.
Design is emerging as an exciting new career within the global economy and merges creativity with practical application. Design Studies prepares you to fully engage in this exciting professional arena.
A portfolio review is not required for admission to the Design Studies Program.
Your Degree Plan
Design Studies is a flexible, student-focused curriculum that is open to all freshmen and to students transferring into the program as long as they meet the GPA requirement of 2.0 overall. Our unique program combines coursework in studio-based design and other multidisciplinary courses that match your interests.
You will meet with an academic adviser at the beginning of the program to customize your curriculum. To graduate with a BS in Design Studies, you complete 120 credit hours, including:
- A first-year seminar, which is an introduction to the University, the major, and college life
- General education courses in topics including English, math, and science
- Major courses in topics including design thinking, sustainable living, and design ethics
- Design-related electives in topics ranging from visual communications to event planning
- 3 credit hours of internship, typically completed during the summer between the third and fourth years
Design Thinking
DSGN 220
This course establishes the value of design thinking, identifies the components of the design thinking process, and helps students develop proficiency by using the process in multiple contexts.
Sustainable Design and Development
DSGN 280
Get an overview of social, environmental, and economic aspects of the built environment, including site considerations, infrastructure, green buildings, marketing, financing, and community. The course sometimes includes local field trips.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Systems
DSGN 470
A detailed study of the LEED green building certification systems, including the various green systems, codes and standards referenced by LEED.
Honors
Expand your curiosity and enhance your curriculum through the WVU Honors College. Two programs are offered: Honors Foundations and Honors in Action.
The WVU Difference
What sets this program apart?
- Gain real-world experience during a required summer internship in your area of interest.
Learn by Doing
Get involved outside the classroom.
View all of the student organizations you can join.
Careers and Outcomes
How does this degree prepare students for a career?
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Has a Bright Outlook
Median Salary: $76,950
Possible Job Titles: Market Analyst, Market Research Analyst, Market Research Consultant, Market Research Specialist
Marketing Managers
Has a Bright Outlook
Median Salary: $161,012
Possible Job Titles: Brand Manager, Business Development Manager, Marketing Director, Marketing Manager
Construction Managers
Has a Bright Outlook
Median Salary: $106,980
Possible Job Titles: Concrete Foreman, Construction Area Manager, Construction Manager, Construction Superintendent
Environmental Restoration Planners
Has a Bright Outlook
May Require Graduate Degree
Median Salary: $80,060
Possible Job Titles: Coastal and Estuary Specialist, Habitat Restoration Specialist, Marine Habitat Resources Specialist, Restoration Ecologist
Graphic Designers
Median Salary: $61,300
Possible Job Titles: Artist Designer, Graphic Artist, Graphic Designer
Writers and Authors
Median Salary: $72,270
Possible Job Titles: Advertisement Agency Copywriter (Ad Agency Copywriter), Advertising Copywriter, Copywriter, Freelance Copywriter
Career options
Our students go on to have successful careers as design coordinators, creative marketing specialists, and events coordinators. Many of them work for companies like:
- Amazon
- Dura Edge
- Hamilton Beach Brands
- Stitch Fix
- California Closets
Places and Spaces
See where you’ll study, research, and create.
Canady Creative Arts Center
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Student Life
You'll experience epic traditions, quality academics, and a supportive community that feels like home.
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Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the Design Studies major, first-time freshmen must meet WVU's first-time freshman admission requirements. Interested in transferring? Review the transfer admission requirements.
Tuition and Aid
How much does Design Studies at WVU cost? And how can you save?
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates are available on our tuition website. Anyone who is not a current West Virginia resident, including international students, will be charged non-resident rates.
Ways to Save
Beyond scholarships, here are other ways to reduce your cost of attending WVU.
Financial Aid
The most important step toward funding your future with financial aid for the Design Studies, BS is submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.
Ohio Tuition Reciprocity
As the result of a special agreement, students from Ohio who are fully admitted to Design Studies can enroll at WVU and pay in-state tuition rates. Students must be admitted to both the University and this major.
Start at Another WVU Campus
You can start your career with WVU at another campus and transfer to WVU Morgantown.
Transfer Articulation Agreements
To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU.
Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.
Request Info
Want to know more about Design Studies at WVU? Fill out our request form to receive more information.
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