Career in Design Computing

Also referred to as Computational Design, Design Computing is a relatively new field of Architecture that encompasses the elements of both technology and architectural/design concepts. The basic idea behind Design Computing courses is to equip the students with fundamental programming knowledge, CAD skills, geometrical modelling as well as numerical methods and techniques in order to solve complex engineering issues. This opens the door to innumerable career opportunities in the Education, Health & Safety, Business, and Scientific sectors. You can find these programs either individually, as a specialisation field in Bachelor of Design [BDes] or M Arch degree course. To bring in more clarity, here is a blog that will shed light on various facets of starting a career in Design Computing!

General Overview

Design Computing is a subfield of Architecture which deals with the technical knowledge of the field. Based on the level of education, the duration of the Design Computing courses vary. While at the undergraduate level the duration is generally 3 years, at the postgraduate level, it can run for a period of 1-2 years. Interaction Design, Physical Computing, Graphic Design, Landscape Architecture, Human-Computer Experience, etc are some of the major subjects you will come across during the course journey. 

Design Computing Subjects

On the journey of your design computing program, you will be made familiar with certain concepts which will together thrive to create a sound knowledge of the basic fundamentals of the field. Though not restricted, tabulated below are some of the other major subjects which you will study throughout the journey of the course. It is important to note that the curriculum and stricture can vary from one university to another. 

Algorithm Design	Data Processing
Database Systems	Linear Algebra
Calculus	Web Technologies
Graphics	CAD

Popular Universities

Being a relatively new field, a handful of academic institutions offer a Design Computing course either at the bachelor’s or at the masters level thus, it is important to thoroughly research regarding the institution before starting with the application process for the same. Tabulated below are the names and rankings of such universities.

University	QS 2021 Rankings
The University of Sydney	40
The University of Melbourne	41
University of Washington	=72
University of Alberta	119
Simon Fraser University	=323

Note: Out of these, some offer exact courses and others in the form of one of the majors of Bachelor of Design or MArch course. 

Eligibility Criteria

When it comes to pursuing a Design Computing course, the prerequisites can vary based on one university/country to another. In general, you need to have studied Mathematics, preferably in the Science stream at the 10+2 level. Along with this, it is mandatory to prove your efficiency in the English language by qualifying the exams like IELTS, TOEFL, etc. Letter of recommendation [LORs], statement of purspoec[SOP], transcripts, resume, marksheets, etc constitute other essential documents of the application package. Furthermore, some universities may also require you to submit a portfolio to gauge your competencies in depth. 

Research Prospects

[optin-monster-shortcode id=”xf2mlnjiouddzrshykdb”]

Not just restricted to bachelor’s or master’s degrees, one can find numerous opportunities to explore the field of Design Computing at postgraduate levels. Academic Institutions like MIT, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Delft University of Technology, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Stuttgart, etc conduct extensive research work on various facets of this field. Enlisted are some of the topics on which R&D has gained momentum: 

• Artificial Intelligence
• Spatial Modelling
• Automated Design Systems
• Visual Modelling
• Extended Reality

What can you do with a Degree in Design Computing?

As discussed, Design Computing courses enhance the analytical reasoning of the students apart from equipping them with field-related knowledge. And due to the increasing demand for such professionals, the employment opportunities are immense. Enlisted are some of the major job profiles you can work in with a Design Computing degree: 

• Project Manager
• Creative Director
• UX Designer
• Multimedia Designer & Strategist
• Communication Advisor
• Technologist

Though a new field, pursuing a career in Design Computing can sharpen your architectural skills and increase career opportunities. If you desire to kickstart your career abroad in this area but are stuck with the admission process then reach out to the experts at Leverage Edu who will not only prepare you for the visa interview but will also help you write an impressive SOP!