Designers help create the artifacts and environments of our everyday experiences. Designers are responsible for creating the things we interact with -- from software applications, to magazines and books, to automobiles, to toothbrushes. Beyond products and communications, some designers are now responsible for re-thinking the environments that we live and work in, from retail spaces to the studios of the future. Over six weeks, the Pre-College Design program provides core experiences in the communication, product, and environment design processes led by our experienced design faculty.
The Experience
The Pre-College program in Design runs from 07/01/2023 through 08/11/2023.
The summer Pre-College Design program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation of skills and a clear idea of what to expect from a college-level accredited program in Design. Sessions will consist of studio learning, lectures, critiques, field trips to museums, workspaces, and community spaces, and guided work sessions with faculty.
Summer Pre-College students in design will experience the dynamic of learning through making in a studio environment. These experiences will include design research, conceptualization, three-dimensional design, working with images and text, and the presentation of their design work.
The summer Pre-College Design program is structured to introduce the discipline of design and to teach students the processes Designers use to solve problems.
Expectations
Summer Pre-College Design is an immersive program that offers the intensive energy and the dynamic creative culture of the college-level experience. Design success is largely the result of focused effort and intensity of investigation; students should expect to invest significant time working in the studio with fellow students outside of class (evenings and weekends) to develop and complete project coursework.
Students will need a digital camera and access to a laptop computer. A Design Kit, with basic materials and tools, is included in the tuition cost, and is provided to every student.
Curriculum
Our program is structured as a six-week program. Students will receive expert instruction in:
- Studio Design for Products, Communications, & Environments
- Design Drawing
- Design Photography
- Design Research & Problem Solving Methods
We provide an intensive introduction to design methods; however, no previous experience or specific computer skills are required to succeed. Please see our FAQ section for more detailed information. Applications for Pre-Collge open on December 1. For general questions about Pre-College or the application process, please call the Pre-College office at 412-268-5914.