DAE is unique in its educational philosophy which emphasizes the importance of both the conceptual and practical aspects of design. The academy encourages its students to explore their personal interests and societal issues through design projects. This approach allows students to develop unique, personal styles and visions that often challenge conventional design norms.
The academy offers both Bachelor's and Master's programs in various fields of design such as:
Each program encourages students to explore design in a way that crosses traditional boundaries and to consider the broader cultural, social, and economic contexts in which design operates.
Design Academy Eindhoven has an extensive network of alumni who have significantly impacted various fields of design. Alumni often go on to establish successful careers in industrial design, fine arts, fashion, and more. The school's influence is evident in the widespread recognition and respect it commands in the design world.
The Bachelor of Design program is a four-year, full-time course that is divided into eight semesters. It begins with a foundational first year called the "Propaedeutic year," which introduces students to various design disciplines and methodologies. From the second year onwards, students specialize in one of the following majors:
1. Public Private - Focuses on designing for both public and private spaces, considering the changing dynamics of how these environments are used.
2. Activity - Centers on the design of objects and experiences, emphasizing user interaction and engagement.
3. Identity - Deals with visual communication, branding, and the narratives that connect people to products and services.
4. Food Non Food - Explores the role of design in food production, consumption, and the cultural aspects of food.
5. Information Design - Focuses on the visualization of information and data, creating clear and communicative design solutions.
The Master of Design program is a two-year course offering advanced studies in specific areas of design. The program is highly research-oriented, encouraging students to develop their own projects and areas of focus. Master’s students can specialize in one of several areas:
1. Social Design - This program explores the social impact of design and how it can address and solve societal challenges.
2. Information Design - Focused on the complexities of data and how it can be designed to inform and engage effectively.
3. Cultural and Contextual Design - This area looks at design within various cultural contexts, understanding and leveraging cultural differences in design.
4. Ecological Futures - Concentrates on sustainability and the role of design in creating ecological solutions for the future.
5. Geo-Design - This specialization examines the intersection of geopolitical issues and design, addressing global concerns through a design perspective.