Design Studies (Minor)

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Are you interested in the processes of design thinking? Do you want to know how to turn concepts into practical ideas and to gain strength in strategic thinking? Then, to build those capacities, this program might be just what you are looking for.

Students interested in design can earn a minor in design studies through this nonstudio-based program of study that focuses on the design disciplines offered in the ASU Herberger Institute:

  • architectural studies
  • graphic design
  • industrial design
  • interior design
  • landscape architecture

The courses may also appeal to students who wish to pursue the study of design within the BA program in interdisciplinary studies.

At A Glance

Design Studies (Minor)

Application requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements:

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Program requirements

Courses selected must satisfy the minimum requirement of 18 credit hours for the minor. Twelve of the credit hours must be in 300-level or 400-level coursework.
To enhance understanding of the subject matter, some of the designated courses are sequential in nature and require certain prerequisites. Consequently, students should carefully note the semester in which these particular courses are offered. All designated courses for the minor in design studies are lecture courses.
Lower-Division Design Studies -- 6 credit hours
Upper-Division Design Studies -- 12 credit hours
Depending on a student's undergraduate program of study, prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this minor.

Enrollment requirements

GPA Requirement: 2.50

Incompatible Majors: All majors in The Design School as well as design studies and design studies (design management)

Other Enrollment Requirements: None

Current ASU undergraduate students may pursue a minor and have it recognized on their ASU transcript at graduation. Students interested in pursuing a minor should consult their academic advisor to declare the minor and to ensure that an appropriate set of courses is taken. Minor requirements appear on the degree audit once the minor is added. Certain major and minor combinations may be deemed inappropriate by the college or department of either the major program or the minor. Courses taken for the minor may not count toward both the major and the minor. Students should contact their academic advisor for more information.

Career outlook

A minor in design studies is intended to provide an overview of design processes and design thinking that can benefit any major within the ASU system. Many industries, including business and engineering, seek candidates with experience and understanding of design thinking since those possessing that skill have a unique method of approaching ongoing problems with new insights which lead to solutions.

Example careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:


Career*growth*median salary
Architects, Except Landscape and Naval 4.2%$78,470
Architectural Drafters 8.1%$52,870
Art Directors5.4%$92,500
Fashion Designers2.6%$67,420
Graphic Designers4.2%$48,700
Commercial and Industrial Designers 4.4%$65,970
Interior Designers4.4%$51,500
Landscape Architects 6.4%$65,760
Set and Exhibit Designers 10.3%$53,090
Web Developers 15%$67,990

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

  • Bright Outlook
  • Green Occupation