The Design Studies major is a distinctive program within the Design discipline at the China Academy of Art. It was selected as a National First-Class Undergraduate Program in 2020. This program follows the fundamental pedagogical and research principles of Art and Design Studies, and constructs a disciplinary development pathway centered on “New Craft Studies” under the framework of the “Oriental Studies of Visual Arts” system. At the same time, it highlights the “Oriental” characteristics of Chinese craft and design research, rooted in Asia and reaching out to the world. The program is dedicated to cultivating students who, on the basis of in-depth exploration of traditional craft and design culture, are able to investigate and reflect on real-world issues in contemporary craft and design disciplines, and to apply what they have learned in practice. Graduates of this program are suited to careers related to design and art, including teaching, research, editing, publishing, and curation. The program aims to produce practice-oriented professionals in design theory for universities, research institutions, cultural and creative industries, museums and cultural institutions, as well as organizations engaged in curatorial planning, publishing, and media communication.
2. Course Overview
Curriculum Structure:
In the first year, the program is grounded in an open and diversified teaching philosophy, integrating three core course clusters-formative studies, design, and theory-through both learning and practice, thereby consolidating the foundation for design research.
In the second year, students enter the stage of specialized foundational courses, systematically acquiring core knowledge and skills in the history and theory of design, aesthetics, criticism, and curatorial practice. This stage focuses on cultivating perceptual and expressive abilities as well as research methodologies, gradually establishing an academic framework of thinking.
In the third year, students engage in more in-depth theoretical studies in craft history and theory, aesthetics, and criticism. Through project-based research practice, they master systematic research methods and develop independent analytical and evaluative capabilities.
In the fourth year, students synthesize the knowledge acquired over the previous three years and complete their graduation thesis and graduation project through an integrated approach that connects theory and practice.
The four-year curriculum follows a progressive trajectory of “Theory - Method - Practice - Integration,” systematically supporting the comprehensive development of professional competence and overall capabilities.
