
Design Studies Minor
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Design Studies Minor
Study Design Studies at Azusa Pacific University
Develop visual communication skills, including practical principles of design using various design software. Complement your studies in marketing, communication management, or computer science. You’ll learn techniques for solving unusual visual challenges.
Program at a Glance
The School of Visual and Performing Arts develops students’ talents through rich artistic experiences and comprehensive training in their chosen artistic discipline.

Gain Hands-on Experience
- Find creative solutions to communication problems using technology and conventional media.
- Reimagine how people can better engage with a website, software, or application.
- Explore the conceptual process necessary for enduring design.
- Research and create diverse visual solutions within deadline-oriented environments.
By the Numbers
Program Details
How to Apply
- Complete your APU Undergraduate Application
- Select Design Studies as your major
- When prompted, complete your Design Scholarship Application via Get Acceptd
Priority Deadlines
Fall 2024 Applicants
February 15, 2024, is the priority deadline for the Fall 2024 Design Scholarship Application. Students must complete their APU Undergraduate Application and their Get Acceptd application by the deadline to ensure consideration.
Spring 2024 Applicants
December 1, 2023, is the priority deadline for the Spring 2024 Design Scholarship Application. Students must complete their APU Undergraduate Application and their Get Acceptd application by the deadline to ensure consideration.
Plan a Visit
Applicants are encouraged to visit a class or meet with one of our professors. Just fill out a COTA Visitation Form to visit us virtually! We look forward to meeting you.
General Undergraduate Admission Requirements
Select an option below:
College of the Arts Design Scholarship
The College of the Arts Design Scholarship is a talent-based scholarship available to select incoming undergraduate students enrolled in the:
This talent-based scholarship is renewable up to eight semesters and can be awarded in addition to any other academic merit scholarships and need-based aid.
Although a private college education may seem out of reach for many, recent research from Kiplinger reveals that the actual value of some private universities may prove this assumption wrong. In 2010, Kiplinger selected Azusa Pacific University for its Top 100 Best Values in Private Colleges rankings. Read more about APU’s ranking in Kiplinger’s Best Values in Private Colleges.
APU students may take advantage of three types of financial aid: scholarships and grants, education loans, and student employment.
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are considered “gift aid” and do not require repayment. They can come from federal, state, or private sources. Scholarships are typically merit-based, meaning they are awarded depending on demonstrated academic ability or other specific talents.
Scholarships are often available from sources outside of APU. You can search for these scholarships through websites such as finaid.org or fastweb.com. The Student Services Center is sometimes notified of scholarships available through APU departments or local organizations, and can provide information about any available scholarships on request.
Education Loans
Education loans are usually repaid after graduation, may be deferred until after graduate school, and often have very low interest rates.
Military Benefits
Military members—and in some cases their spouses and dependents—qualify for financial assistance covering tuition, housing, and books. Azusa Pacific is a Yellow Ribbon University and Military Friendly School, so you can be confident that you’ll receive the benefits and flexibility you need to complete your education.
Student Employment
On-campus student employment is available for students needing additional income to pay for education-related expenses. APU students also find work off campus in the surrounding community.
Net Price Calculator
We’re committed to helping families understand early in the college search process the value of the APU experience, and options for affordable financing of a top-tier Christian university education.
Now that you’re familiar with the financial aid opportunities available to APU students, it’s time to estimate what your true cost may be to attend Azusa Pacific. Remember, estimations are only as accurate as the information you provide. Click on the Net Price Calculator button below to begin.
Net Price Calculator
To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:
Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Career Outlooks and Outcomes

College of the Arts Hosts Industry Spotlight at Warner Bros. Studios
APU’s College of the Arts (COTA) hosted the 2023 Industry Spotlight on May 4 at the legendary Warner Bros. Studios, giving students a chance to showcase their work in front of industry talent representatives and casting directors.