DesignIntelligence report ranks VPA interior and industrial design programs among nation’s best

The 2010 DesignIntelligence report “America’s Best Architecture & Design Schools” has ranked two programs in Syracuse University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) among the top in the nation. DesignIntelligence is the Design Futures Council’s bimonthly report on the future, delivering original research, insightful commentary and instructive best practices.

VPA’s undergraduate program in interior design was ranked No. 10 for interior design programs, while the undergraduate program in industrial and interaction design was ranked No. 14 for industrial design programs. Both programs are housed in the School of Art and Design’s Department of Design.

“Interior and industrial design’s repeated inclusion in the DesignIntelligence rankings reflects the high level of professionalism and excellence that are the hallmark of all Department of Design programs and brings well-deserved national and international recognition to these innovative and progressive courses of study,” says Lucinda Kaukas Havenhand, chair of the Department of Design.

The DesignIntelligence study ranks accredited undergraduate and graduate programs from the perspective of 381 leading practitioners who have had direct experience in hiring and evaluating the performance of recent architecture and design graduates.

The Design Futures Council is an interdisciplinary network of design, product and construction leaders exploring global trends, challenges and opportunities to advance innovation and shape the future of the industry and environment. Members include leading architecture and design firms, dynamic manufacturers, service providers and forward-thinking AEC firms of all sizes that take an active interest in their future.