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Chicago College Launches Sustainable Design MFAs

The programs are open to students without previous architecture or design experience.

Mairi Beautyman -- Interior Design, 8/7/2007 12:00:00 AM

In Fall 2007, Columbia College in Chicago will offer sustainable design studies as part of its Masters of Fine Arts programs--joining an emerging trend in colleges across the U.S. Offered in its architectural studies and interior architecture programs, the curriculum is intended to prep students intellectually and technically with knowledge and skills for sustainable practice in multiple areas of design.

The two, three-year graduate programs are conceived in collaboration with the City of Chicago's Department of Environment. Students will be able to tap resources such as the Chicago Center for Green Technology, a green-designed center housing organizations and businesses committed to the environment, and Access Living, a Chicago-area nonprofit with a new, state-of-the-art green building.

Concentrations include sustainable design, museum design, adaptive reuse and exhibit/furniture/product design. Students without previous architecture and related design experience will be able to take classes to fulfill pre-entry requirements.

"While many architecture programs in the United States are integrating sustainable design into already existing programs, they are not fully embracing what will be a design mandate in the not-too-distant future," says Sabina Ott, chair of Columbia´s art and design department.

"Chicago is proud to be home to three platinum rated LEED projects and this program will further that progress," adds Sadhu Johnston, commissioner of the Chicago Department of Environment. "Engaging our future building designers in sustainable practices can help ensure that green buildings may one day become the norm instead of the exception."