Design Program

• Overview
• Mission & Objectives
• Courses
• Career Information
• Faculty
• Plan of Study
• Student Organizations

Mission & Objectives

Mission

The mission of the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Design is to prepare individuals to apply technical skills to the management and creation of working drawings and computer simulations for a variety of applications. This shall include, but will not be limited to, instruction in specification interpretation, dimensioning techniques, drafting calculations, material estimation, technical communications, computer applications, and interpersonal communications.

Vision

A program committed to the continuous improvement of processes that encourage excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and community engagement.

Values

• That people are our most valuable resource; that our success depends on the extent to which we treat them with dignity and respect and invest in their personal and professional growth.
• That we maintain the highest ethical, legal, and professional standards—that is, in integrity in all we do. Every decision we make and every action we take must be in the best interest of those we are chartered to serve.
• That the development, application, and management of technology are fundamental elements of modern society.
• That shared and reciprocal efforts of individuals, disciplines, organizations and communities are an effective means of meeting the diverse needs of our various constituencies. Design technology includes professional collaboration, as well as commitment to the education, supervision and mentoring of novice design professionals.
• That commitment to excellence and integrity in our professional practices involves lifelong learning, adherence to our code of ethics, and the development and support of instructional programs based upon defined competencies.
• That research is a fundamental tool of inquiry to guide our practices and interventions, and strengthen and promote our profession. Technology professionals have a responsibility to maintain a current understanding of research findings and participate in research that examines our practices.
• In providing a safe and healthy environment.
• In active, contributing participation in our communities.

Objectives

The BS in Design exists to prepare graduates who may work independently, who may work as a member of an engineering or architectural design team, who may supervise an engineering or architectural design team, or manage an engineering or architectural design project.  As such, graduates shall be prepared for involvement with the:

• Understanding of the theories and practices used in engineering or architectural design and in engineering or architectural design documentation.
• Application of theories, concepts, and principles found in the humanities and the social and behavioral sciences, including a thorough grounding in communication skills.
• Understanding of the theories and the ability to apply the principles and concepts of mathematics and science and the application of computer fundamentals.
• Application of concepts derived from, and current skills developed in, a variety of technical and related disciplines.

Outcomes

• Resources: Identify, organize, plan, and allocate resources; select drawing relevant activity, allocate time, keep records and follow schedule; and use company resources responsibly (e.g., supplies, equipment).
• Interpersonal: Work with others; participate as member of team (e.g., following instructions, providing feedback, cooperating with established team goals); serve clients/customers—work to satisfy customers' expectations (internal and external customers); maintain professional respect for co-workers and customers without prejudice; understand how the structure of the organization works and work effectively within it; communicate effectively with work related personnel; and provide job-related instruction to others.
• Information: Acquire and use information; acquire and evaluate job-related documents; organize and maintain files; interpret and communicate job-related information; and use computers to process information in the work environment.
• Systems: Understand complex terminology; is familiar with inter-relationships used in the profession; understand the technical aspects of everyday life on the job and the tools that relate to the profession; and suggest modifications to existing processes and develop new or alternative methodologies to improve performance.
• Technology: Work with a variety of technologies and apply current and appropriate technology to specific tasks.
• Thinking Skills: Think creatively; make intelligent decisions; solve problems; visualize, organize and process symbols, pictures, graphs, objects, and other information; use efficient learning techniques to acquire and apply new knowledge and skills; and practice deductive and inductive reasoning skills.
• Personal Qualities: Practice individual responsibility; have good self-esteem, believe in own self-worth, and maintain a positive view of self; relate well to others; set personal goals, monitor progress, and exhibit self control; possess integrity; maintain a professional image; demonstrate dependability; demonstrate a good work ethic; demonstrate willingness to learn; provide constructive praise or criticism; demonstrate flexibility; work safely; and balance work, family, and personal life.
• General Knowledge of Industry: Know the scope of the industry and how parts interrelate; understand the economics pertinent to the department (e.g., supply costs, productivity, business financial decisions); and read, analyze and interpret examples of industry reports and specifications and standards.

Accreditation

The BS in Design is accredited by the National Association of Industrial Technology (NAIT).