Bachelor in Design
Bachelor in Design
A UNIQUE BACHELOR IN DESIGN
The Bachelor in Design at IE University offers a forward-looking, multidisciplinary education. By combining creative exploration, strategic thinking and hands-on practice, the program prepares students to design meaningful solutions across products, spaces and services.
The study plan provides a strong foundation in design principles, methodologies and technical skills while encouraging students to think critically, collaborate across disciplines and respond creatively to complex challenges. From research and strategy to prototyping and communication, students develop the tools to navigate every stage of the design process.
Learning is project-based from day one. Working on real-world briefs, industry collaborations and practical design challenges, students continuously apply what they learn in the classroom to authentic contexts, strengthening both their creative confidence and professional readiness.
This combination of breadth, practical experience and interdisciplinary thinking enables graduates to adapt to emerging opportunities, lead innovation across industries and create meaningful impact through design.
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Learn more about our BACHELOR IN DESIGN
FIRST YEAR
During your first year, you will have a broad introduction to the world of design and you will begin to develop the necessary skills to work and succeed as a designer. You’ll take a first look into the multidisciplinary aspects of the profession and you’ll benefit from our design studio methodology, defined by its practical approach and its combination of individual and collaborative work.
SECOND YEAR
In your second year of study you will learn about the creative methodologies currently being used in professional practices, and you’ll develop a critical approach to your designs. The assignments will become more complex as you build up your skills; you will be expected to integrate information, concepts, and techniques from related disciplines.
THIRD YEAR
During the first half of your third year, you will continue developing your designer skills in five areas: design culture, techniques, applied sciences, business and project-centered design. You will build a theoretical framework and learn about materials and their different uses. You will take several elective courses, which will allow you to personalize your career path an experience more types of design. During this year, you will also be able to study abroad.
FOURTH YEAR
The fourth year is all about consolidating knowledge. You will learn about the latest developments in creative technology and you will use them as tools for your design practice. You will learn about the latest trends in digital fabrication and study creative coding and programming from a designer’s perspective. During this year we will also address the main issues regarding the dissemination of your work, reaching out to important stakeholders, working on your portfolio, and the storytelling of your projects.
BACHELOR IN DESIGN OPTIONAL DIPLOMAS STUDY PLAN
BACHELOR IN DESIGN OPTIONAL DIPLOMAS STUDY PLAN
Students who wish to develop advanced expertise in a specific design discipline can complement their Bachelor in Design with an optional diploma. Building on the program’s multidisciplinary foundation, each diploma offers a focused academic pathway that strengthens specialized knowledge, technical skills and professional practice.Â
Students can choose from four diploma options: Visual Communication, Product Design, Interior Design and Experience Design. These diplomas are also open to students from other programs within the IE School of Architecture & Design.Â
INTERIOR DESIGN
Learn to design spaces that shape the way people live, work and connect. Through the exploration of spatial design, materiality lighting and emerging technologies, this diploma develops the creative and technical skills to create meaningful interior environments across residential, commercial and public contexts.
VISUAL COMMUNICATION
Develop the ability to communicate ideas through compelling visual experiences. From branding and illustration to digital interfaces, motion and environmental graphics, this diploma combines creative expression with strategic thinking to prepare designers for an evolving visual landscape.
Product Design
Learn to design physical and digital products that blend aesthetics, usability, and innovation—turning ideas into tangible, user-centered solutions.
EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Learn to design services, organizations and systems that create positive social, environmental and economic impact. Combining strategic design, systems thinking and futures thinking, this diploma prepares students to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful change across industries, brands and institutions.Â
Design Diplomas
The Design Diplomas allow students to develop advanced expertise in design that best aligns with their interests and career ambitions. Each diploma offers a focused academic pathway that builds specialized knowledge, advanced skills and a stronger professional profile within a chosen field.Â
By combining the multidisciplinary foundation of the Bachelor in Design with in-depth study in a specific discipline, students graduate with both the versatility to work across an evolving design landscape and the expertise to pursue more specialized career opportunities.Â
Strategic Partnerships
MEET OUR FACULTY
Meet the professors teaching on your programme and explore their academic backgrounds, areas of expertise and professional experience.
Faculty Stories
Our 500-strong faculty guides students to unleash their potential day in, day out. Their influence across all five Schools can’t be overstated, inspiring young, energetic minds as they define their personal and professional trajectories.Â
But what kind of person does it take to create such impact? The individuals that make up the IE University faculty are special. Coming from diverse, global backgrounds, they each bring distinct perspectives and innovative ideas that embody what makes IE University stand out. Their stories are personal and unique—but don’t take our word for it. Read their stories to see for yourself.
Read our blog
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long is the Bachelor in Design program?
The Bachelor in Design is a four-year, 240-ECTS degree taught in English, with the first two years in Segovia and the final two in Madrid.
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How can the Bachelor in Design help with a career in branded environments?
The Bachelor in Design develops skills in spatial design, branding, visual communication and user experience, providing a foundation for careers focused on creating physical and experiential environments that communicate a brand's identity.
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What do you study in the Bachelor of Design?
The curriculum combines core design principles with technology, materials, applied sciences, business, social sciences, and design methodology. Students apply their knowledge through practical projects, developing skills in research, ideation, prototyping, and presentation while addressing real-world design challenges. Electives and optional diplomas also allow students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.
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Is design a stressful career or academic track?
Design can involve tight deadlines, feedback and changing project requirements, but the level of stress varies by specialization and work environment. Developing organizational, communication and problem-solving skills can help designers manage these demands effectively.
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What software tools are covered in the design study plan?
The program uses digital tools to develop skills in digital modeling, visualization, interactive design and creative technology, alongside physical prototyping and fabrication.
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Can I specialize in a specific field of design?
Yes. The degree allows students to shape their academic path according to their interests. In addition to electives, students can pursue optional diplomas in Product Design, Visual Communication, Interior Design or Experience Design allowing them to develop deeper expertise in a particular area.
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