About Our Programs
The Department offers a wide range of majors and minors in Animation & Illustration, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Interaction Design, and Interior Design. All of our programs are focused on giving students real-life, practical, design experiences that will help them find their place in the broader design community and in turn, the world.
Animation &
Illustration
San Jose State University's animation program boasts a dynamic curriculum tailored to industry standards, fostering creativity and technical prowess among its students. With state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty guidance, SJSU's animation program equips graduates with the skills to thrive in the competitive world of animation and digital media.
"The thing I will miss the most from this year’s graduating class is the opportunity to be continually educated with the latest lingo. This group has cooked very hard and have been giving to me throughout their studies here. I would definitely rate them as being certified slay! 💅 💅"
David Chai
"It’s the dream of most professors to see their students graduate with the skills, attitude, and social network needed to begin a lifelong career in their particular field of study. I’m very grateful that this graduating class is making my dreams come true!"
David Chai
Graphic
Design
At San Jose State University, the graphic design program cultivates innovative thinkers and visual communicators through hands-on projects and interdisciplinary collaborations, preparing students to excel in diverse design environments with a blend of traditional and cutting-edge techniques.
"Each of you has brought something different, enriching our program's creative, collaborative environment. It has been inspiring to watch your ideas grow and evolve."
Connie Hwang
"Your commitment to your work and passion for design have resulted in remarkable projects that reflect your talents and unique perspectives on the world. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors."
Connie Hwang
Industrial
Design
San Jose State University's competitive industrial design program offers a comprehensive education grounded in design thinking and technical expertise. We empower our students to create impactful solutions for real-world challenges across product and user experience design realms. Through a fusion of studio work, prototyping, and industry partnerships, SJSU cultivates forward-thinking designers equipped to shape the future of consumer products and environments.
"I love how you all come together to support each other, how you work together as a team, how you accept each other's quirks and celebrate your differences. If you had disagreements, you left them at the door and brought your best, energetic and punchy selves to our class to uplift us and keep us laughing together all semester long."
Mara Skov
"We won't have to miss you at all because we will now be colleagues which is even better that student/faculty. Now go out and make us proud and especially MAKE EVERY MOMENT MATTER!"
Mara Skov
Interior
Design
At San José State University, our professional, accredited, and nationally-ranked BFA Interior Design program merges creativity with functionality: students reimagine spaces through a blend of aesthetic and innovative vision, with practical and technical design principles. With our focus on sustainability, social equity, emerging technology, and digital fabrication with real materials, SJSU's interior architects and designers are equipped to shape future environments that inspire, engage, and enhance human experience.
"As you step into the next chapter of your careers, remember that design is more than aesthetics—it's about storytelling, problem-solving, and improving the way people live. The world needs your ideas, your innovation, and your heart."
Kyu Kim
"The students’ creative energy and enthusiasm about their projects brought the program together and inspired comradeship."
Ming Cheng
Master
Program
The Master of Design Experience Design Specialization emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, design practice, emerging technologies, and research to expand the boundaries of design for experience. Our goal is to cultivate the next generation of creative leaders who can tackle complex challenges in design and beyond.
"This year’s graduating class has shown remarkable craftsmanship by diving into uncharted territory, getting scrappy with experimentation, and designing with a fiercely human-centered spark."
Josh Nelson
"As the first Master of Design class, this crew brought thoughtful energy and a collaborative spirit—true pioneers who looked out for each other and shaped the culture from the ground up."
Josh Nelson
