University of California, Los Angeles School of the Arts and Architecture 34 courses
The undergraduate Design major begins with the study of basic design elements and processes: form, color, drawing, letterforms and typography, motion, and interactivity. Historical perspectives and social issues are also introduced. At the upper-division level, studio courses explore current uses of interactive media and new directions in visual communication design, including the study of time and motion, as well as virtual form and space in computer-generated environments. Through a balance of courses in theory, criticism, and practice, students develop an understanding of design principles across a wide variety of media tools and environments. The program culminates in a two-quarter-long senior capstone project. Most courses are taught as studios of no more than 22 students, which encourages individual growth and fosters a sense of community within the department. The Design major is a designated capstone major. Students are required to complete an advanced project of their own that entails full engagement with the field. Through their capstone work, students demonstrate their capacities for research, ideation/concept development, creative and design direction, communication strategy, design, production/fabrication, and critical analysis. Capstone courses focus on career choice, and final projects are showcased at the spring senior show.
Preparation for the Major: Required Lecture Courses
Complete the following two courses:
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DESMA 8 | Media Histories | 5 |
| DESMA 10 | Design Culture | 5 |
Preparation for the Major: Required Studio Courses
Complete the following four courses:
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DESMA 21 | Drawing and Color | 4 |
| DESMA 24 | Motion | 4 |
| DESMA 25 | Typography | 4 |
| DESMA 28 | Interactivity | 4 |
Preparation for the Major: Studio Elective
Select one of the following courses:
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DESMA 22 | Form | 4 |
| DESMA 27 | Three-Dimensional Modeling | 4 |
The Major: Required Lecture Course
Complete the following course:
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DESMA 104 | Design Futures | 5 |
The Major: Required Studio Courses
Complete the following seven courses:
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DESMA 140 | Word + Image | 5 |
| DESMA 141 | Web Design and User Interface and Experience | 5 |
| DESMA 142 | Design Systems | 5 |
| DESMA 143 | Disability and the Web | 5 |
| DESMA 144 | Type in Motion | 5 |
| DESMA 145 | Design Research | 5 |
| DESMA 150 | Professional Practices | 5 |
The Major: Studio Electives
Select two courses from:
The Major: Senior Project
Complete the following two courses:
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DESMA 159A | Senior Praxis | 5 |
| DESMA 159B | Senior Capstone Project | 5 |
Click a course code or title to read the full course description.
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