General Information | The Program | Requirements | Courses | PDF File

The Major Program

The Program. Foundation courses, Design and Visual Culture; Design Drawing; Design Media; and Graphic Design and Computer Technology, are required of all design majors. Beyond these, students take courses in their depth subject matter emphasizing their interests. Students select one of four areas of emphasis to focus undergraduate study: Textile and Fashion Design; Interior Architecture, including furniture and lighting design; Visual Communication and Exhibition. The selected emphasis determines the required core of courses; all emphases are complemented by classes in design history. A more detailed explanation is available through the Design Advising office in 152 Walker Hall (530) 752-1165.

Portfolios. Portfolios are not required for admission to the major. However, admitted students are required to keep a continuing portfolio of their creative work to be evaluated by faculty for the purposes of requesting independent study or other similar courses, and applying for internships.

Internships, Careers, and Study Abroad. As part of their preparation, design students are encouraged to supplement their coursework with internships in design firms, museums, art galleries, textile galleries, and in graphic designers', interior designers' and architects' offices. Design graduates go directly from this program into further graduate study, clothing, graphic design, interior design and architectural firms, exhibit and display work in galleries and museums, and theatrical and textile companies. In addition, students have become entrepreneurs through freelance and commissioned work in many related areas. The Design program encourages students to experience design abroad through a variety of sponsored programs. Contact the Education Abroad Center for more information.