“Design is a discipline in constant evolution, and our students need to be prepared to face diverse challenges,” explained Alejandra Amenábar, dean of the Design School.
Driven by technological advancements and the expectations of new generations, UDD Design is implementing a significant change to its curriculum, set to take effect in 2025. This new academic plan is centred around seven distinguishing attributes and provides students with two training paths that address the current needs of the job market.
UDD Design curriculum includes a Common Plan for all first-year students. After completing this plan, students must choose a specialisation from one of four options: Graphic Design, Digital Interaction Design, Design of Spaces and Objects, or Fashion Design and Management.
The new academic program offers students two options to customise their educational pathway. The first option allows students to choose a major, as is currently the case and introduces a minor for those who select this route. This minor complements the major by providing knowledge in areas outside their primary degree, such as Biodesign, Design and Heritage, UX/UI, or Service Design. Flexibility enables students to tailor their curriculum, acquire additional skills, and embrace a multidisciplinary approach, resulting in a broader and more diverse education.
The new curriculum offers a second option that allows students to study two specialisations simultaneously, which adds an extra semester to their degree program. This opportunity enables students who meet the requirements to graduate with two equivalent professional degrees, making them more competitive in the job market with a diverse and versatile skill set. A report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that, on average, individuals with a double degree or multiple majors have an employability rate up to 15% higher than those with a single degree. This highlights the significant advantage of pursuing this alternative in today’s labour market.
This increase is due to the ability of graduates with multiple degrees to adapt to different roles and sectors and the perception that they have a broader and more diversified skill set, which is highly valued in today’s labour market.
The dean of the Design School, Alejandra Amenábar, explained the motivation behind the renovation: «Design is a discipline that is constantly evolving, and our students must be prepared to face diverse challenges. With this new curriculum, we not only enhance their training in their areas of specialisation but also provide them with opportunities to explore other fields. This approach encourages a more comprehensive learning experience tailored to their interests and the market’s evolving needs.»
Once again, UDD Design opts for an excellent education that adapts to the changing environment and demonstrates its commitment to permanent innovation.
