Contact

Carmel Nicoletti, Program Coordinator
The Nancy Cantor Warehouse, cmnicole@syr.edu

Faculty

Don Carr, Michael Kowalski, Meyer Giordano, Carmel Nicoletti, Jody Nyboer

Program Description

Design is inherently forward-looking. It interrogates present-day challenges in order to shape what comes next. The bachelor of science (B.S.) prepares students for impactful roles as design futurists, equipping them with the skills to contribute to
research and development teams, collaborative projects, and other professional contexts in design.

Emphasizing interdisciplinary learning, ethical considerations and a commitment to social impact, the program cultivates expertise in design research, critical discourse and innovative problem-solving. While students gain a deep understanding of design thinking, history, processes and industry contexts, this rigorous program focuses on design as a field of inquiry rather than on specific technical training for design production. Graduates are prepared to drive meaningful advancements, address complex design challenges responsibly and shape the future of design as it responds to an ever-evolving world.

Current students and those transferring must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Design Discourse – Demonstrate an understanding of design as a research-driven, interdisciplinary field by analyzing current trends and proposing future directions within a global context.
2. Design Research and Critical Thinking – Apply research methodologies, data analysis, and critical thinking skills to develop evidence-based knowledge that informs the approach to complex design challenges.
3. Interdisciplinary Perspectives – Demonstrate an understanding of design’s broader role and impact by synthesizing knowledge from other academic disciplines to enrich design work across varied contexts.
4. Ethical and Social Responsibility – Evaluate and address ethical considerations and the broader social, cultural, and environmental impacts within design production, processes, research, and industry practices.
5. Effective Communication – Communicate research findings, conceptual ideas, and innovative solutions clearly and effectively through written, visual, and oral formats, tailoring communication to diverse audiences within and beyond design-related fields.

Academic Electives

You can find a comprehensive list of approved academic electives: here

Degree Awarded: BS in Design Futures

Undergraduate University Requirements

The following requirements and experiences apply to all Syracuse University Undergraduate matriculated degree programs.

• ​IDEA Course Requirement 
• First Year Seminar