Design Research

Over the summer, my team and I researched how the Communication Design

program at Texas State could better prepare students for the design industry.

Our study explored ways to introduce design-focused courses earlier in the

curriculum and reduce the emphasis on traditional art classes. Through surveys,

interviews, and curriculum analysis, we found that students want earlier exposure

to design thinking, digital tools, and real-world projects. We proposed restructuring

the program to prioritize applied design experiences, strengthen industry

connections, and modernize coursework to align with today’s creative landscape.