The College of Design’s research, extension and engagement activities connect the mission and goals of the College to the needs of society and design profession. The College sees the development and success of these activities to be related to its educational mission and strives to create an environment where these activities engage scholars, students and the public.
Within the context of an American land-grant and research extensive university, the College of Design carries considerable responsibility as a center of influence through DESIGN INQUIRY. It addresses the most pressing issues of society through scholarship – research, public engagement, and teaching - that prepare the next generations of researchers, practitioners and educators.
The majority of research, extension and engagement efforts at the College of Design are conducted through its initiatives. Each initiative focuses on a specific topic important to communities.
These initiatives are geared to creating design solutions for social issues ranging from affordable housing (Architecture in the Public Interest Initiative) to childhood obesity (Natural Learning Initiative) to safety in the workplace (Universal Design Initiative). Our initiatives help rural towns boost their economies and quality of life (Community Design Initiative) and aid entrepreneurs in developing and patenting their inventions (Innovation Design Initiative). Healthy and sustainable urban living is a major goal of the Downtown Design Studio.
As part of NC State University - a land-grant institution with a wide network of extension agents in all 100 North Carolina counties - the College of Design is well-poised to research and develop design solutions that improve life for all.
