WSU set to offer a new doctorate in design studies

Washington State University and Harvard University now have something in common – they are the only U.S. institutions to offer doctoral degrees in design.

On Tuesday, the Higher Education Coordinating Board approved a doctorate in design at Washington State University Spokane’s Interdisciplinary Design Institute.

The institute currently offers degrees in architecture, construction management, interior design and landscape architecture.

The doctorate degree targets skilled design professionals who will become versed in design education, practice and research.

WSU Spokane said in its proposal that accommodating the program will require the addition of two faculty, three part-time support staff and a library collection.

By the fifth year, the program is expected to enroll up to 16 full-time students.