Design Studies

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies at Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago is an undergraduate degree crafted for students who are passionate about the visual world and its impact on society. This program is ideal for those who discover their design interests after beginning college or who wish to explore the dynamic intersection of design with other academic disciplines. You will delve into the foundational principles of design, integrating studio-based methods with critical thinking drawn from the sciences and humanities, preparing you for a future where creative problem-solving is paramount.

This full-time, on-campus program unfolds over four years, guiding you through a comprehensive curriculum that includes design colloquiums, form studios, digital media design, and typography. You will engage with the history of design, develop crucial research methods, and participate in integrative studios. In your final year, you will undertake a professional practice project, allowing you to apply your learned skills to real-world challenges. You will graduate with a versatile skill set, ready for diverse career paths in fields such as graphic design, industrial design, and user experience.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of design principles and practices across multiple semesters. Students will engage with foundational concepts through studios, colloquia, and historical surveys, developing skills in visual communication, digital media, and research methodologies. The curriculum progresses to integrative studios and professional practice, culminating in a senior design project and colloquium.

1 Fall Semester

Design Colloquium
2D Form Studio
3D Form Studio
Design Photography
Academic Writing I: Writing in Academic and Public Contexts
Understanding the Individual in Society General Education course

2 Spring Semester

Design Drawing
Digital Media Design I
Color Theory
Academic Writing II: Writing for Inquiry and Research
Understanding the Past General Education course

3 Fall Semester

World History of Art and the Built Environment I
Typography I: Form
Human Experience in Design
Analyzing the Natural World General Education course

4 Spring Semester

World History of Art and the Built Environment II
Typography II: Systems
Design Research Methods
Exploring World Cultures General Education requirement

5 Fall Semester

History of Design I: 1760-1925
Integrative Design Studio I
Understanding U.S. Society General Education course
Elective (chosen in consultation with advisor)
Elective (chosen in consultation with advisor)

6 Spring Semester

History of Design II: 1925 to the Present
Integrative Design Studio II
Elective (chosen in consultation with advisor)
Elective (chosen in consultation with advisor)
Elective (chosen in consultation with advisor)

7 Fall Semester

Design Seminar
Integrative Design Studio III
Professional Practice Track (select one of the following)
Elective (chosen in consultation with advisor)
Exploring World Cultures course

8 Spring Semester

Senior Design Colloquium I
Senior Design Colloquium II
Professional Practice Track (select one of the following)
Integrative Studio Project
Elective (chosen in consultation with advisor)
Understanding U.S. Society course

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,984.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,430.00 - USD 1,788.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Chicago Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesBanking & Financial ServicesBroadcasting & TelevisionCybersecurityEvent Promotion & ManagementFinancial Technology (Fintech)Gaming & Interactive MediaInsurance & Risk ManagementInvestment Management & Asset ManagementRegulatory & Government Affairs

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

Booz Allen Hamilton

IBM

Meta

NBCUniversal

School of Rock

Why Study Design Studies at University of Illinois Chicago

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

University of Illinois Chicago typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Illinois Chicago in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Design Studies at University of Illinois Chicago

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not need separate authorization.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English test requirements, you can choose from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores. For example, TOEFL requires an overall score of 80, while IELTS requires a minimum score of 6.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Graphic Designer, Industrial Designer, Design Researcher, UX/UI Designer, and Art Director.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BA in Design Studies is a degree for students who discover design after starting college, or for students who are interested in the intersection of design and other disciplines. The program blends studio-based

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Design Studies program has three intake months: January, May, and August. Be sure to apply before the deadlines for your chosen intake.
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