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Cardboard structures from ART 121.

School of Design

Inspiring Creative Communities

The unique composition of our School of Design unites the visual arts and the built environment. We are equal partners in weaving dialogue and collaboration across everything we do. This dynamic coexistence empowers us to be agile and innovative.


Students attending an art class

To provide a comprehensive and robust design education, the School of Design (SoD) combines all of SDSU's design fields of study - architecture, interior design, studio art, graphic design and landscape architecture - in an academic framework that shares curriculum and resources. First-year students enroll in collaborative design studies focusing on design thinking, creativity and professional exploration generating a unique pathway to explore design interests. The curriculum includes: a common introduction to the university, and introduction to design theory and practice, a creativity course and later an upper-level course to work on collaborative design projects. All SoD programs are accredited. The school's proximity to Sioux Falls, Minneapolis and other markets have created a dynamic entrepreneurial market for art, design and architectural practice.

SoD Students

400

Faculty

28

Art and design elevate everything. We initiate and engage in conversations that shape creative practices and enhance our understanding of art and design. This exchange enriches the way we live and work. We challenge limits and nurture confidence as we transform our students, ourselves and our communities.

School of Design Events

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Sep 27

Art Educators Keynote Speaker

School of Design News

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Jeremiah Bergstrom, lecturer of landscape architecture in the South Dakota State University School of Design, has received a top award from the New Jersey Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects for a collaborative project on rising floodwaters.

Bergstrom recognized by New Jersey Chapter of American Society of Landscape Architects

Jeremiah Bergstrom, lecturer of landscape architecture in the South Dakota State University School of Design, has received a top award from the New Jersey Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects for a collaborative project on rising floodwaters.

Studio art seniors to display thesis exhibition in February

Four South Dakota State University seniors are presenting their Bachelor of Fine Arts thesis exhibition on campus this month.

When the water rises

In a project led by lecturer of landscape architecture Jeremiah Bergstrom, South Dakota State University's School of Design has developed a first of its kind guide for creating flood-resilient landscapes. The guide, which was developed in partnership with faculty at Rutgers University, is aimed at helping community officials and leaders turn vacant, flood-prone properties into usable community assets.