DESIGN 2310: Visual Principles and Techniques I - 50 Drawings exercise review.
Credit: E. Valentine
Start your journey in design—where creativity meets purpose.
At Ohio State Design, your journey begins with our Design Foundations program—a shared first-year experience that sets the stage for everything to come. Whether you're drawn to products, spaces, visuals, or immersive media, this is where you’ll explore it all.
From Selection to Specialization
Admission to the Design Foundations program is competitive. Once selected, you’ll begin building your portfolio, sharpening your skills, and preparing for the spring major admissions review—your opportunity to apply to one of four undergraduate design majors.
Design Foundations is more than a curriculum—it’s your launchpad into the world of design.
Your First Year in Design: Structured for Success
Design Foundations is a hands-on, immersive first-year experience that builds the creative and technical skills you’ll need to thrive in any design discipline. Each course builds on the last, guiding you through a structured sequence that prepares you for your chosen major.
In your first year, you’ll dive into hands-on studio work, learn the fundamentals of design thinking, and build essential skills in drawing, digital tools, and visual literacy. You’ll collaborate with other aspiring designers, discover your strengths, and gain exposure to all four of our undergraduate majors. By the end of the year, you’ll be ready to apply to the major that fits your passion and purpose.
Course Sequence Overview
Autumn
DESIGN 2110: Design Fundamentals I
DESIGN 2310: Visual Principles and Techniques I
Online Design Lecture*
Spring
DESIGN 2130: Design Fundamentals II
DESIGN 2330: Visual Principles and Techniques II
Online Design Lecture*
*Online Design Lecture: Students will take either DESIGN 2700: Introduction to Design Practice or DESIGN 2750: Design History in each semester, depending on availability and advising recommendations.
Each course is offered once per academic year and must be taken in order. Because each class is a prerequisite for the next, staying on track is essential. Students who do not successfully complete a required course will not be able to continue in the Foundations sequence.
"The Design Foundations program builds the mindset and versatility needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving creative landscape."
— Associate Professor of Teaching Deb Scott
Foundations Area Coordinator
Tools and Technology
We understand that design education can come with financial and environmental costs. That’s why we’ve worked hard to reduce barriers and make essential tools and materials more accessible. We’ve built a lending library of tools and materials that students can share—reducing costs and promoting sustainability. To make sure every student has access to high-quality materials, we’ve partnered with Blick Art Materials to create affordable supply kits. These kits are delivered directly to Hayes Hall, so you’ll have what you need, when you need it.
Admissions
From applicant to admitted Buckeye to Ohio State Design student, here's the admission information to know.
Academic Programs
From competitive majors to minors open to all, find out how design fits into your goals.
Academic Advising
Academic Advisors are here to help you design your ideal Ohio State educational experience.
Admissions
From applicant to admitted Buckeye to Ohio State Design student, here's the admission information to know.
Academic Programs
From competitive majors to minors open to all, find out how design fits into your goals.
Academic Advising
Academic Advisors are here to help you design your ideal Ohio State educational experience.