Major in environmental design at Oregon
The environmental design program is an interdisciplinary BA/BS focusing on visual and spatial design skills applied to the context of environmental sustainability. The exploratory degree, the first of its kind in the College of Design and on the west coast, combines coursework from architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, planning and public policy, art, product design, historic preservation, and more.
Why choose environmental design as a major? Climate change is one of many factors impacting urbanization, human life, and ecology on a global scale. Landscape design, design technology, resilience and advocacy, sustainable built environments, and urban sustainability are the five tracks, or specializations, in the environmental design program, and aim to prepare the next generation of designers, scientists, and advocates to tackle critical concerns.
Curriculum overview
Strong emphasis on data visualization skills on both large and small scales
Strong emphasis on landscapes and the built environment
Introduction to the use of sustainable materials and practices in interior and exterior built environments
Pathways to master's degrees in design and planning
Developing skills in visual modeling of environmental amenities, challenges, and solutions
Conceptualizing, planning, and implementing design solutions for the built environment
Exploring sustainable options in materials
Producing compelling visual/spatial communications for environmental action
Opportunities for double majors
Careers in environmental design
Graduate School: This program is an excellent path to pursue a master’s degree in landscape architecture, architecture, historic preservation, planning, urban design, and interior architecture. Certain tracks also lead to a reduced time in graduate school. Talk to your advisor for more information!
Professional Skills and Industry: Ready to enter the work place right after school? The program is designed to support the valuable work that professional, non-government organizations (NGO), and government agencies engage in every day. Graduates may find a great opportunity with The Nature Conservancy, investors needing environmental impact assessments, sustainability management, or government positions like planner, GIS tech, or design technician.