Students must choose one of the following design sequences. Each sequence offers something different in terms of what you'll focus on, the kinds of projects you'll do, and how the course is set up. Not sure which one's right for you? Email Stacy Benjamin (for students within McCormick) and email John Anderson (for students outside McCormick) — we're happy to chat and help you figure out which sequence fits you best.
DSGN 380-1,2
Industrial Design Projects
Studio-based two-quarter sequence
Create New Product Designs — Explore the form, features, and interactions of physical products
Explore Design Masters and Methods— Learn about modern design masters and state-of-the-art visualization methods while developing your own voice in design
Learn by Doing — Complete a series of projects that emphasize personal growth and design portfolio development, using hand and digital approaches
Design Physical Products — Uncover needs, generate ideas, and build-test-refine prototypes to create something new
Collaborate with Community Partners — Work with local organizations like John G. Shedd Aquarium, The Trees That Feed Foundation, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, and Lurie Children’s Hospital
Learn by Doing — Incorporate design sprints, project management, and professional communication
DSGN 370, Portfolio Development and Presentation — The portfolio must demonstrate effective use of the design process (including conceptual and detailed design), prototyping, use of software and analytical tools, and effective visual communication.
No more than one non-DSGN unit may be by petition.
At least one unit must be from DSGN.
Two units must be 300-level or higher.
Undergraduate Degree
To receive the certificate, students must successfully complete a Northwestern baccalaureate degree.
Additional Requirements
As stated in the undergraduate catalog, at least four units of coursework applied to the Segal Design Certificate must be uniquely counted, not also applied to any other academic plan or credential (such as a student's major, minor, or other certificate).
Students can declare the certificate and submit changes to their courses in the McCormick Advising System (MAS) before the beginning of their final quarter as undergraduates.
No course may be taken P/N.
Courses with a grade lower than a "C" cannot be counted toward the certificate.
