Introduction To Design What is A Degree In Design?

Design Student Handbook
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What is A Bachelor of Design?

Whether you want to become a print designer, a web guru or a mixture of the two, the Bachelor of Design (BDes) program helps you build the skills you need to succeed. In the BDes degree, you’ll explore many different types of design, work closely with skilled faculty members and learn from your fellow students.

The majority of the courses required for the degree are studio-based, so you’ll get plenty of hands-on experience. You’ll have the chance to practice your sketching, designing, and prototyping skills. You’ll also learn how to use a variety of digital tools, including Adobe Creative Cloud, GitHub and more. With each project, you’ll receive feedback from others so that your work can continue to improve.

What Is Design?

Milton Glaser, an industry renowned designer, marketer, and business professional, says “To design is to communicate clearly by whatever means you can control or master.” Design is communicating, and graphic design—visually communicating—is just one aspect of design. Design is problem-solving, storytelling, entertaining, marketing, educating, and more.

Having The Right Equipment

Most of the campus computers meet the required technical specifications for design classes and the program has four “state of the ark” Macintosh labs. However, if you want to purchase your own computer for Design classes, make sure it meets the following requirements. *Chromebooks and other cloud based devices will NOT work.*

RAM

  • 16 GB minimum (more preferred)

Hard Drive (Storage)

  • 512 GB SSD or 750 GB/7200 RPM minimum (more preferred)

Warranty Service

  • It is recommended to purchase a warranty service lasting at least 3 years.

Software

  • Microsoft Office 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud are required for design courses.
  • Microsoft Office 365 is available through your EWU email.
  • Adobe Creative Cloud offers a significant student discount! Just sign up with a student email to access it. 

Don’t Underestimate Your Abilities

FEAR of FAILURE. Don’t be afraid to fail. And don’t be afraid to try something new. Challenge yourself in your work and grow from it. Put your best effort into your work and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you are struggling. Often, students will collaborate together on how they are approaching the same project. Take these opportunities to ask questions and listen to peer feedback. The more effort you put into your work the better it will be, and the more you will learn. Sometimes this might even mean starting over. Iteration is all part of the design process. But once you have a clear vision, your hard work and effort will show in your final draft.