Design Studies (Design Management), BA

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The BA in design studies is a four-year, nonstudio program of study in design that focuses on the design disciplines offered in the ASU Herberger Institute:

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

It is a highly flexible program of study, much like a liberal arts degree, in which students select design and design-related courses offered in the institute and throughout the university. Students acquire a breadth of design knowledge via courses taken from three categories: communication for design, design history and general design.

It provides a design education, general and specific, to students who seek opportunities in the broader design sector or in graduate education.

The concentration in design management offers a selection of courses in management and human communication that complement design and allows for more focused study in these areas.

At A Glance

Design Studies (Design Management), BA

Required Courses

A major map outlines a major's critical requirements, courses, and optimal course sequence and aids students in remaining on track to graduation.

While circumstances vary between students and their paths towards graduation (utilizing placement testing to fulfill required math or foreign language courses, fulfilling multiple General Studies requirements with one course, etc.), completing the courses listed in a major map fulfills all of the requirements for graduation.

Application requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements:

Affording college

Scholarships
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Financial Aid
ASU has many financial aid options. Almost everyone, regardless of income, can qualify for some form of financial aid. In fact, more than 70 percent of all ASU students receive some form of financial assistance every year.

Career outlook

Although a specific career path is not the principal intention, graduates of the program have become involved in sales and marketing in the design sector; others have gone on to graduate studies in architecture and planning. Other possible career paths include journalism and education.

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
Architectural Drafters 8.1%$52,870
Archivists 14.3%$51,760
Chief Executives-3.9%$183,270
Civil Drafters8.1%$52,870
Compliance Managers 8%$105,610
Construction Managers 11.1%$91,370
Cost Estimators 10.5%$63,110
Designers, All Other5.8%$55,930
Drafters, All Other8%$50,290
General and Operations Managers 9.1%$100,410
Graphic Designers4.2%$48,700
Green Marketers 5.5%$106,130
Commercial and Industrial Designers 4.4%$65,970
Investment Fund Managers8%$105,610
Industrial Production Managers -0.5%$100,580
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists 23.2%$63,230
Marketing Managers 10.1%$132,230
Mechanical Drafters5.2%$55,130
Curators 14%$53,770
Museum Technicians and Conservators 12.4%$40,670
Administrative Services Managers 10.1%$94,020
Regulatory Affairs Managers 8%$105,610
Sales Managers7.5%$121,060
Social and Community Service Managers 18%$64,100
Supply Chain Managers 8%$105,610
Set and Exhibit Designers 10.3%$53,090
Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes4.7%$64,940
Transportation Managers 6.7%$92,460
Storage and Distribution Managers 6.7%$92,460

* 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