The Environmental Design undergraduate program is designed to create a deep awareness and knowledge of issues that influence the design of built environments and the design of artifacts. The program of study emphasizes general knowledge and design research in the areas of sustainability in environmental design; design innovation, technology and design strategy as well as in the histories and theories of design. This degree prepares students for all graduate programs in The Design School.

The Design School offers three minors and concentrations; architectural studies, interior design history and landscape architecture studies.

Graduate studies in The Design School are organized with a studio or a research focus. There also are several opportunities for students to pursue concurrent graduate degrees with the school.

Studio based programs provide students with the ability to move from a general understanding toward advanced knowledge and skills, emphasizing a deep awareness of theoretical foundations and contemporary issues.  

The Design School’s programs provide an education that is both broad and deep. We offer the Bachelor of Science in Design (BSD) degree with majors in Architectural Studies, Environmental Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture and Visual Communication (Graphic) Design. We also offer a minor in Architectural Studies, Interior Design history, and Landscape Architecture Studies for students who wish to complement their major by exploring design.

The Interior Design concentration addresses the discovery and inquiry into how people use and perceive space. The program encourages creativity, innovation, and critical thinking while acknowledging the importance of historical precedent. Students seek to understand and provide solutions for more sustainable and life-enhancing interior environments.

Whether you are interested in the design and construction of beautiful new spaces and buildings, design and analysis of economically and ecologically sustainable built environments and communities, digital design and prototyping of innovative new building systems and technologies, or research and advocacy for new definitions of the expansive public role of architects in professional practice and broader civic discourse, a degree in Architecture can prepare you to become a leader in the future of the building industry and beyond.

The Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts supports the scholarly inquiry, applied research and creative activity of more than 400 faculty and 4,373 students. This research activity spans more than 100 academic programs and allied research centers in five academic schools: art; arts, media and engineering; film, dance and theatre; design; and music.

Thousands of dollars in scholarships and fellowships are awarded to Herberger Institute students annually. Money generated for these scholarships and fellowships come from the generous donations of our alumni, parents and friends. Scholarships are awarded and re-evaluated annually.