A senior showing off an experimental typography project featuring the word "explore."

The Pre-College program in Design runs from 06/22/2024 through 08/03/2024.

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-College open on December 1. For general questions about Pre-College or the application process, please call the Pre-College office at 412-268-5914.

Apply Here