Design Exploration
Design Exploration
Spend up to a year exploring RIT's design programs before you declare a major.
Overview
If you are passionate about design but are unsure which program best fits your career aspirations the design exploration option is for you. RIT's School of Design offers majors in 3D digital design, graphic design, industrial design, interior design, and new media design. In the first year, students will work closely with their academic advisor to select courses that best match their interests.
The design exploration option requires the submission of a portfolio. View our Portfolio Requirements for more information.
Featured Work
Airport Design
Rochester Institute of Technology's Interior Design program hosts a weeklong workshop every year called Hyperspace where students complete a sponsored project that addresses a social need.
Featured Profiles
'Sp(arrows)' Exhibition
Taylor Kennedy, Annalisa Barron
"Sp(arrows)" is a two-person exhibition at RIT City Art Space featuring Annalisa Barron and Taylor Kennedy '15 (fine arts studio), whose combined work explores the cathartic relationship of...
Pre-College Portfolio Prep Workshop 2022
RIT's annual Pre-College Portfolio Preparation Workshop offers students an engaging and rewarding experience. The course, taught by our School of Art's drawing and painting faculty, is a visual arts...
The Charrette Workshop
The Charrette is an annual, intensive workshop for RIT College of Art and Design students in Foundation classes. They have one week to create wearable sculpture out of various materials based on a...
Admission Requirements
Freshmen Admission
For all bachelor’s degree programs, a strong performance in a college preparatory program is expected. Generally, this includes 4 years of English, 3-4 years of mathematics, 2-3 years of science, and 3 years of social studies and/or history.
Specific math and science requirements and other recommendations
- Studio art experience and a portfolio of original artwork are required for all programs in the School of Design.
- A portfolio must be submitted. View Portfolio Requirements for more information.
Learn about admissions, cost, and financial aid
Latest News
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July 21, 2022
![Joe Allgeier with a 3D model of a respirator he designed.]()
3D shops manager brings personal touch to the job
Meet Joe Allgeier, an educator, maker and Jack of all trades for the College of Art and Design.
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May 10, 2022
![A group of students pose in front of a mural.]()
Projects from EUREKA! design workshop see real-world application
Non-profit partners from RIT's annual interdisciplinary workshop have recently implemented ideas developed by teams of students working to use their skills for social good.
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April 7, 2022
![A headshot of Nate Rohman.]()
Academic advisor receives Provost’s Award for dedication to student success
Nate Rohman, academic advisor for RIT's graphic design and studio arts BFA programs, will be honored April 12 at the Celebration of Teaching and Scholarship ceremony.
