Design Studies course catalog
All 88 recorded UW–Madison courses in this department, including courses not offered this term. Open a course for prerequisites, historical grades and instructors.
ANTHRO/ARTHIST/DS/HISTORY/LANDARC 264: Dimensions of Material Culture
Credits unavailable
This course introduces students to the interdisciplinary field of material culture studies. It is intended for students interested in any professional endeavor related to material culture, including careers in museums, galleries, historical societies, historic preservation organizations, and academic institutions. During the semester, students have varied opportunities to engage with and contemplate the material world to which people give meaning and which, in turn, influences their lives. Sessions combine in some way the following: presentations from faculty members and professionals who lecture on a phase of material culture related to his/her own scholarship or other professional work; discussion of foundational readings in the field; visits to collections and sites on campus and around Madison; discussion of readings assigned by visiting presenters or the professors; and exams and short papers that engage material culture topics.
ANTHRO/ARTHIST/DS/HISTORY/LANDARC 764: Dimensions of Material Culture
Credits unavailable
This course introduces students to the interdisciplinary field of material culture studies. It is intended for students interested in any professional endeavor related to material culture, including careers in museums, galleries, historical societies, historic preservation organizations, and academic institutions. During the semester, students have varied opportunities to engage with and contemplate the material world to which people give meaning and which, in turn, influences their lives. Sessions combine in some way the following: presentations from faculty members and professionals who lecture on a phase of material culture related to his/her own scholarship or other professional work; discussion of foundational readings in the field; visits to collections and sites on campus and around Madison; discussion of readings assigned by visiting presenters or the professors; and exams and short papers that engage material culture topics.
ART/DS 226: Textile Design: Off-loom Construction
Credits unavailable
Studio design problems in two and three dimensional off-loom constructions; off-loom weaving, looping, and knotting; historical reference and contemporary application.
ART/DS 229: Textile Design: Weaving I
3 credits
The relationship of hand weaving to textural surfaces and sculptural forms are examined through the study of problems including structure, pattern, composition, and additional conceptual technical possibilities. Content is explored in the development of individual direction and in relationship to the discussion of historical and contemporary textiles and other works of art. Pursue an advanced investigation of concept and technique of hand-woven cloth.
COMPSCI/DS 579: Virtual Reality
Credits unavailable
Introduces the field of virtual reality with an emphasis on creating immersive, interactive virtual experiences. Survey topics include the history of virtual reality technology, computer graphics and 3D modeling, human perception and psychology, and principles of human-computer interaction and user interface design. Is intended for individuals with backgrounds in Computer Science, Engineering, Art, Architecture, or Design.
COMPSCI/DS/ISYE 518: Wearable Technology
Credits unavailable
Covers the design and construction of wearable computing platforms, combining technology with textiles and apparel. Intended for those with a background in textiles, computer science, engineering, or media arts. Explores fundamentals of electronic circuitry, programming, and maker skills, as well as applications such as sensor integration, interactive textiles, and wearable user interfaces.
DS 101: Introduction to Textile Design
3 credits
An introduction to the technical and conceptual ways of working in Textile Design. Learn about print and dye concerns, off-loom processes, and structural enrichment techniques and concepts.
DS 120: Design: Fundamentals I
3 credits
Elements and principles of design relevant to design of the visual environment.
DS 123: What Is Design?
Credits unavailable
Design is a key component of our daily lives and can profoundly affect all people. But how? And to what end? What does design mean and what can it do for us? Interrogate those questions by looking broadly at the place of design in everyday life, and how design intersects with society, economics, politics, the environment, and culture. Study the form, function, and philosophy of design, from what we wear on our bodies to how we move through the world. Ground discussions in close observation and analysis of previous design solutions, leading to innovative approaches to the roles, and responsibilities, of design for the future.
DS 130: Introduction to Interior Architecture
Credits unavailable
Introduction to interior architecture, as a discipline and as a profession. Examine the ways in which interior environments impact our lives, and the challenges and responsibilities faced by those who work in this field. Topics include: the history of interior design as a profession; the increased professionalization of interior design; the relation of interior design to other design disciplines (such as architecture and furniture design); the social, economic, and environmental issues that impact design; the role of emerging technologies (including digital media); design research and documentation; the elements and principles of design; the identification and observation of quality work in both commercial and residential settings; contemporary trends in taste and aesthetics; and the application of design research methods to a real-world project.
DS 140: Visual Thinking - Form and Space
Credits unavailable
Manual and digital techniques for idea exploration, concept development, and design presentation using a variety of media. Projects in hand drawing techniques and professional design software. Gain heightened attention to detail; understand the relationship of two-dimensional drawings and three-dimensional objects; explore multiple design solutions visually; convey technical information, and professionally communicate design concepts. Introduce visual communication, visual thinking, visual inspiration and visual representation
DS 150: Visual Thinking - Pixels and Pencils
Credits unavailable
Explores visual media as a means of describing what exists, as a method for generating ideas for what could be, and for professionally communicating a design concept. Use hand drawing techniques and professional design software. Supports the proficiency of technical skills while teaching essential methods for creative practice. Learn to move fluidly across platforms to visually explore possibilities, refine ideas, and professionally communicate design plans.
DS 151: Craft & Construction for Garments
3 credits
Introduces the principles of sewn construction, fabric cutting/layout, and finishing techniques for creating garment prototypes as they relate to the design process. Develop foundational garment construction skills through a combination of demonstrations, hands-on studio work, and critiques. Emphasis is placed on mastering fundamental sewing techniques, and structural analysis to create well-constructed garments that integrate technical precision.
DS 152: Fashion Design I
Credits unavailable
Introduces core principles of fashion design with a focus on creativity, sustainability, critical thinking, and concept development. Emphasizes silhouette, proportion, scale, and materiality as foundational elements in developing design aesthetics. Includes research and sketching as part of the design process, from initial inspiration to presentation of garment concepts. Explores historical and contemporary fashion to inform original work. Develops skills in trend forecasting, market analysis, and flat sketching.
DS 153: Sewn Construction I
Credits unavailable
Introduces the principles of sewn construction and addresses the physical and aesthetic properties of fiber and fabrics in the context of apparel design. The studios address skills necessary to plan and construct basic garments. Lectures, hands-on studios, and critiques explore the fundamentals of apparel structure and emphasize the interrelationship of fabric, design and apparel construction as well as the creative, expressive potential of materials and making.
DS 154: Sewn Construction II
Credits unavailable
Emphasizes specialty fabrics, finishes and complex construction such as matching plaids and working with pile fabrics. Introduces pattern manipulation through basic flat patternmaking principles. Design and fabricate an original collection of garments for a target customer and will develop and construct two of the garments.
DS 210: Fashion Illustration
3 credits
Introduction to visual communication of apparel design concepts using selected media. Focus is on drawing the fashion figure, using special techniques, with emphasis on the relationship of figure, garment, fabric, texture, and pattern.
DS 215: Patternmaking for Accessories
Credits unavailable
The principles and theories of flat pattern, drafting and draping methods for 3D accessories are explored. The principles of patternmaking are applied to headwear, handbags and footwear. Complete projects that require designing, patterning and constructing hats, bags and footwear.
DS 220: Design: Fundamentals II
Credits unavailable
Elements and principles of three-dimensional design relevant to design and analysis of the spatial environment.
DS 221: Person and Environment Interactions
3 credits
Effects of building and outdoor spaces on people over the life course.
DS 222: Interior Design I
4 credits
Understanding and applying the process of solving design problems of interiors. Space planning; selection and use of furnishings and materials; preparation of presentations.
DS 223: Interior Architectural Design
3 credits
Building components, construction, interpretation of working drawing, and the process of project development.
DS 224: Interior Materials and Finishes
3 credits
The materials used in interior environments are immense, diverse and constantly changing. Focus on the composition of materials, their uses, and how they affect human health and well being.
DS 225: Apparel Design I
Credits unavailable
Basic principles and elements of design as they apply to apparel. Emphasizing both process and product, students analyze fashion trends and practical problems while developing and executing original designs.
DS 227: Textile Design: Printing and Dyeing I
Credits unavailable
Surface design developed in print and resist techniques using historic and contemporary methods.
DS 228: Textile Embellishment I
Credits unavailable
Historic and contemporary design techniques for embellishing textiles; including embroidery, beadwork and appliqué.
DS 241: Visual Communication I
3 credits
Focuses on the basic concepts, methods and materials used for communicating ideas during the design process. Emphasizes creating visually driven experiences, with the goal of providing the tools to integrate traditional manual approaches with up-to-the-minute digital approaches, all within the context of creative design thinking.
DS 242: Visual Communication II
Credits unavailable
Advanced topics focusing on the concepts, methods and materials used for communicating ideas during the design process. With an emphasis on creating visually driven experiences, integrates traditional manual approaches with up-to-the-minute digital approaches, all within the context of creative design thinking.
DS 251: The Science of Textiles - Performance & Properties
Credits unavailable
An introduction to textiles, fiber properties, and fabric behavior. Explore textile construction, performance, fabric aesthetics, durability, comfort, care and sustainability as related to design practices, serviceability of fibers, yarns, weaves and knits as well as dyed and printed fabrics. Case studies of sustainable designers and sustainability frameworks are referenced for responsible material choices. Analyze traditional and emerging fiber technologies to develop a deeper understanding of textiles and their impact on design and the environment.
DS 252: Design Leadership Symposium
1 credits
Provides detailed examination of design careers in the fields of textiles, fashion, and apparel design as well as interior design, industrial design, and architecture. High level industry experts from leading companies in the design industry participate as guest speakers and panel members.
DS 253: Patternmaking for Fashion Design I
3 credits
Introduces flat patternmaking as a fundamental technique in apparel design. Explore foundational concepts and principles through manipulation of pattern blocks and the typology of garment styles and silhouettes to execute original designs. Develop pattern drafts for simple garments by applying fundamental patternmaking techniques (dart manipulation, adding fullness, contouring). Emphasis is placed on understanding garment construction in translating design concepts into accurate pattern drafts.
DS 270: Design and Fashion Event Practicum
Credits unavailable
Addresses the multi-disciplinary production of a student-centered, student-driven design and fashion event. Topics include, creative direction, strategic marketing, stage and performance, visual communication, event organization, audience engagement and event production. Gain knowledge, skills and hands-on experience implementing a large-scale art event. Emphasizes teamwork and fosters multi-disciplinary appreciation.
DS 299: Independent Study
1–3 credits
Directed study projects as arranged with a faculty member.
DS 319: Cloth to Clothing
Credits unavailable
Explore specific dye and manipulation techniques that directly relate to integrated textile and garment design. Working with color, composition and fabric movement discuss simple garment shapes and how they can be used in conjunction with expressive textiles.
DS 321: Problem-definition: Design Programming
3 credits
Programming is the problem definition phase of design process. An architectural or design program is used to guide the design process and to evaluate design solutions. A variety of design programming approaches, tools, and techniques are presented. Opportunity to develop skills in preparing a design program document that includes multiple user-needs and principles of environment-behavior interaction.
DS 322: Interior Design II
Credits unavailable
Design of residential interiors including space planning, lighting design, selections of materials and furniture, professional communication of design solutions. Emphasis on the aesthetic and functional needs of the family and residents with special needs.
DS 327: Textile Design: Manual/computer Generated Imagery and Pattern
3 credits
Pattern design for textiles, wallpaper and other applications (motif, layout, repeats, colorways, coordinates), using various manual and digital creation methods. Development of imagery, design concepts, collaboration and presentation.
DS 333: Digital Fabrication for Designers
Credits unavailable
Modern tools and techniques including professional design software and digital fabrication equipment are used in combination with traditional model making for tangible prototyping using a variety of media. Leverage digital design software, laser cutting, and 3D printing alongside traditional methods and manual tools to develop design concepts into physical forms.
DS 341: Design Thinking for Transformation
3 credits
Learn design thinking techniques to enhance creative analysis and problem solving. Directly apply those techniques to a variety of human centered design challenges. Innovate, prototype, and test designs that address real-word problems with real-world constraints and the limitations of technology. Projects range from ways to improve everyday situations to community issues.
DS 353: Patternmaking for Fashion Design II
Credits unavailable
Expanding upon foundational patternmaking techniques through introduction of complex pattern manipulations, tailored garment construction, zero waste patternmaking, sustainable designs, and multi-piece garment development. Emphasis is placed on precision, fit modifications, structured garment design, and problem-solving in pattern development. Development of skills to create original, industry-standard patterns for diverse silhouettes and styles.
DS 355: History of Fashion, 1400-present
3 credits
Changing form and meaning of costume in the West from Renaissance to present. Dress considered in relation to social/cultural milieu and as an art form. Includes treatment of the body; ethnic/class variations; couture; "antifashion".
DS 361: Study Abroad: Design Related International Experience
Credits unavailable
A study abroad equivalency for in-depth study of art or design concepts, or practice in a specific culture that does not equate to a UW-Madison course. Requires current enrollment in a UW-Madison sponsored study abroad program.
DS 401: Fit Accessories Design
Credits unavailable
A transfer equivalency for courses completed at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).
DS 402: Fit Advertising and Marketing Communications
Credits unavailable
A transfer equivalency for courses completed at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).
DS 403: Fit Communication Design Foundation
Credits unavailable
A transfer equivalency for courses completed at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).
DS 404: Fit Fashion Business Management
Credits unavailable
A transfer equivalency for courses completed at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).
DS 405: Fit Fashion Design
Credits unavailable
A transfer equivalency for courses completed at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).
DS 406: Fit Textile Design and Science
Credits unavailable
A transfer equivalency for courses completed at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).
DS 407: Fit Related Area
Credits unavailable
A transfer equivalency for courses completed at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).
DS 421: History of Architecture and Interiors I: Antiquity Through 18th Century
3 credits
Surveys the history of architecture, interiors, furnishings and decorative arts from antiquity to the mid-19th century. Introduction to major design cultures and movements, emphasizing the role of social, economic, political, technological, and aesthetic factors in the shaping design.
DS 422: History of Architecture & Interiors Ii: 19th and 20th Centuries
Credits unavailable
Surveys the history of architecture, interiors, furnishings and decorative arts from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century. Introduction to major design cultures and movements, emphasizing the role of social, economic, political, technological, and aesthetic factors in the shaping design.
DS 427: Textile Design: Printing and Dyeing II
Credits unavailable
Focuses on silkscreen printing. Discharge, burnout, and chemical resist processes, specific to screen printing. Develop conceptual ideas and explore alternative ways of producing images.
DS 428: Textile Embellishment II
Credits unavailable
Opportunity to continue creative research introduced in Textile Embellishment I, with a special emphasis on student driven design. Advance skill and vision using traditional and experimental ways of altering and enriching the surface of pliable materials using techniques such as stitching, embroidery, beading, and fabric collage. Identify and pursue individual conceptual concerns. Readings, formal and informal presentations, group and individual critiques will support the work. Presentation of research will include formal power point talks and physical presentation of the completed textile works.
DS 429: Textile Design: Weaving II
Credits unavailable
Analysis of complex or compound hand weave techniques. Individual development of solutions to problems of structural textile design.
DS 430: History of Textiles
Credits unavailable
Designs and meanings and interrelationships of textiles in selected cultures and time periods.
DS 451: Color Theory and Technology
3 credits
Specialized topics of current interest.
DS 453: Digital Patternmaking I
Credits unavailable
Explore the digital dimension of patternmaking through industry-standard computer-aided design (CAD) software. Examines the advantages of computer-assisted patternmaking, and considers the potential impact of emerging and future technologies. Emphasis is placed on digitizing patterns, manipulating basic blocks, creating garment models, and developing original garment designs.
DS 501: Special Topics
1–3 credits
Specialized topics of current interest.
DS 519: Collection Development
Credits unavailable
Demonstrate accumulated learning through a semester long project in the development of a collection of marketable artisan works within your own media. Combines classroom-based learning explorations with real world technical and economic considerations to successfully navigate a balance between expansive thinking and application in real world situations.
DS 521: Environments of Crisis & Design
Credits unavailable
Explores emerging built environments designed to support people undergoing crises such as disasters, conflicts, forced migration. Focuses on psycho-social components to employ human-centered design lens to environments of crisis. Examines theoretical frameworks on stress, trauma-informed practices, supportive environments, and restoration. Investigates physical spaces in crisis environments and their health and wellbeing impacts. Evaluates design, policy interventions from lenses of equity and justice, human rights, and dignity.
DS 527: Global Artisans
Credits unavailable
In the field of design, there has been an increased emphasis on ethical practices in production and consumption. Utilizing "design thinking", become exposed to important issues surrounding small-scale artisan production and develop valuable hands-on skills working with artisan partners through design, quality control, branding and story- telling. Topics may include: fair trade development, product design, cultural implications, as well as pricing, marketing, and sales.
DS 528: Experimental Textile Design
2–3 credits
Experimental design and decorative principles; elements and techniques for the animation of textile surfaces.
DS 529: Building a Sustainable Creative Practice
Credits unavailable
Artists and designers' material choices influence the content, social meaning, and physical structure of their work, as well as leaving an environmental foot print and affecting social exchange. Consideration given to reuse and recycling, and critically engaging ideas of sustainability in art making and design practice with an emphasis on fiber related topics including textile and apparel design, soft sculpture, papermaking and book arts, as well as exhibition, installation, and/or the distribution of finished works.
DS 549: Environmental Control Systems: Lighting, Acoustics, and Thermal Comfort in Buildings
Credits unavailable
The ways in which we design, construct, and operate has significant impacts on the building occupants and the environment. Architects, designers, and building engineers can work closely together to reduce depletion of critical resources, prevent environmental degradation, and create built environments that are livable, comfortable, safe, and productive. Offers the foundational knowledge on which such practice can be built on. Through a series of lectures, field measurements, and building simulations, understand how lighting, acoustics, and thermal properties behave in buildings and influence the building occupants. The proper application of building design as well as methods for designing and evaluating these features are discussed.
DS 550: Material Culture of Childhood
3 credits
Explores the histories of Children and Childhood and a set of scholarly methods called Material Culture. How have changing understandings of child development, social and cultural history, and the history of the family shaped and been shaped by children's material worlds? Explores design and material culture topics that illuminate how histories of young children have been understood and treated and considers objects that reflect the experiences of young people, from birth through school age-clothing for babies and children, garments that mark aging and transitions, histories of homes and interior furnishings, toys and play things, objects for learning, and material objects related to caregiving.
DS 555: Sustainable Fashion Practices - Unraveled & Redesigned
Credits unavailable
Explores sustainable fashion design through the lens of circular design principles, ethical production, alternative business models, and material innovation. Emphasizes waste reduction, upcycling, regenerative design, local production networks, and closed-loop fashion systems. Combines theoretical exploration with hands-on projects to analyze the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry, experimental approaches, and creative solutions that align with circular economy frameworks. Encourages critical thinking, material research, and the development of fashion garments with minimal environmental impact.
DS 561: Textiles: Specifications and End Use Analysis
Credits unavailable
Physical textile testings are studied. Emphasis is placed on the evaluation of textiles intended for use as apparel and for interiors. Writing specifications, and minimum performance standards are also discussed.
DS 570: Design and Fashion Event Management
Credits unavailable
Production of a student-driven, student-centered design and fashion event presents the framework for advanced experience and study. Provides the opportunity to study and to actively engage in high-level interdisciplinary exploration and collaboration. Transferring discipline-specific skills to a new context, learn methods for testing, review, and revision to develop problem-solving skills and communication. Encourages teamwork as well as crossdisciplinary understanding and appreciation.
DS 601: Internship
Credits unavailable
A supervised internship providing hands-on training in a professional experience in design studies related fields.
DS 620: Visual Thinking for Problem Solving
Credits unavailable
Visual thinking's theoretical foundations are paired with visual thinking skills, tools, and applications. The format explores the way these can be combined while thinking critically and engaging with problem solving methodologies such as design thinking. Theoretical foundations include the elements and principles of design, the processes of visual narrative, and perceptual theories. Skills and applications include manual sketching, 3D visualization and modeling, data visualization, image manipulation, graphic design, video presentation, multimedia, design for 3D printing and fabrication, diagramming, digital rendering, and graphic design.
DS 622: Interior Design III
4 credits
Design of commercial interiors with emphasis on design process, programming, space planning, selection of interior materials, furniture, and lighting. Field trip required.
DS 623: Interior Design IV
4 credits
Design of commercial interiors with emphasis on acoustics, codes, costs, specifications, details, and visual presentation. Field trip required.
DS 624: Interior Architecture Professional Practice
Credits unavailable
Prepares Interior Architecture majors to launch their careers in design. Become cquainted with aspects of the interior design profession: how an office works, the project delivery process in interior design practice, and post-graduation material preparation.
DS 626: Interior Design V
4 credits
Provides the opportunity to explore and refine interior design skills while responding to current events and the ever changing world around us. Follow the design process from research, programming, conceptual and schematic design, full design development and presentation. All aspects of designing an interiors project in detail will be addressed, including space planning, interior architectural articulation, furniture selection, finish selection, detailing of custom elements, rendering, website development for client presentation, and more.
DS 629: Digital Weaving
Credits unavailable
Development of industrial and hand-woven digital jacquard designs using multiple software platforms. Translation of digital imagery sourced from drawings, photographs, scans, etc. into weave drafts through pattern development, simulation, and production. Integration of creative practice with technical analysis and research.
DS 641: Advanced Design Thinking for Transformation
3 credits
An empathetic, human-centered perspective that uses Design Thinking and draws from historical precedence and current research from a variety of fields to help solve complex and persistent problems such as student mental health awareness and lack of clean drinking water. Utilizes advanced design thinking techniques to enhance creative analysis and problem solving to address real-word problems with real-world constraints and the limitations of technology. Projects range from ways to improve everyday situations to community issues.
DS 642: Taste
Credits unavailable
Exploration of the idea of taste - both "good" and "bad", in "popular" and "high" culture. Cross-cultural readings from theoretical and historical perspectives, relating to architecture, landscape, public space, art, and clothing.
DS 650: Collaborative Design Capstone
3 credits
Culminates design education through real-world challenges. Develops critical thinking, creativity, innovation for effective solutions. Emphasizes collaborative teamwork within multidisciplinary groups. Guides portfolio development, underscoring growth and versatility as a designer. Topics include defining problems through research, conceptualizing solutions, designing prototypes and interfaces, conducting user testing, and implementing designs.
DS 679: Research Methods in Design
Credits unavailable
Future designers need to have critical research knowledge and skillsets that include mastery of various research methods, related issues, and practical experiences in understanding and interpreting quantitative or qualitative research. Design research allows designers to be involved directly with objects, products, and environments they design through human-centered inquiry. The major concepts addressed include design research and its influence on the practice of design, generating research questions, critical literature review, research evaluation, data management and analysis, and various research strategies, all geared toward application to various design practices.
DS 680: Senior Honors Thesis
Credits unavailable
Individual study in honors as arranged with a faculty member.
DS 690: Senior Thesis
2–4 credits
Individual study as arranged with a faculty member.
DS 699: Independent Study
1–6 credits
Directed study projects as arranged with a faculty member.
DS 920: Seminar in Design Studies
1–3 credits
A forum to discuss issues in contemporary art and design.
DS 990: Research and Thesis
1–12 credits
Independent research and writing under the supervision of a faculty member.
DS 999: Independent Study
1–3 credits
Directed study projects as arranged with a faculty member.
DS/GENBUS 240: Human-centered Design and Business
2 credits
Design thinking is an iterative problem-solving process geared toward producing innovative solutions for complex and persistent problems in various fields and organizations. Its process, culture, and value system from both design and business point of views will be covered: Empathetic understanding of the end users, problem definition rooted in systems thinking, ideation with a strong emphasis on creativity, visualization and prototyping, testing rooted in a set of research methods, and finally, the importance of iteration in bringing about innovative solutions. The path from project to market will also be explored, with an understanding of how one might balance desirability, feasibility and viability.
DS/LANDARC 639: Culture and Built Environment
Credits unavailable
Explores cultural values embedded in buildings through understanding physical configurations, social organizations, practiced/symbolic/representational aspects of buildings. Covers a wide range of cultures and the built environments they produce including examples from the Americas, the Middle East, as well as those of the many ethnic minorities in the U.S.
DS/URBRPL 955: Practical Research Design and Methods of Empirical Inquiry
Credits unavailable
Provides a practical introduction to basic concepts of research question formulation, research designs and alternative methods of inquiry, implications for internal validity of the research and generalizability of the findings, operational definitions and measurement validity, reliability, utility and precision.