Department of Design
Letter from the Department Chair
Welcome to the Department of Design
When I was young, I always considered myself a hands-on creator rather than a traditional student. I struggled in most college classes, as I just sat at a desk, listened, watched and—ultimately—felt bored. It took me a long time to figure out what worked for me and where I belonged.
Despite my struggle as a student, I found my place as an educator at Thomas Jefferson University within our Department of Design, because the educational environment and approach to teaching reflect what I was looking for as a student.
In the Department of Design, our programs are driven by practice. A classroom can serve as an incubator for a tech startup or a space that functions like a leading brand agency. Students take on the roles of real professionals, regardless of their skill level or academic year.
Our faculty are accomplished designers with deep industry experience who don't simply teach students. They work alongside them as mentors, offering dedication to the student's ideas and guidance on the design principles and technical skills to help them realize their vision.
The education we deliver is active and rigorous, but it's also fun and fulfilling. Our students have the opportunity to craft compelling brands, products and media, while solving real-world problems, leveraging their creativity and diverse skill sets.
A design education at Jefferson not only prepares students to work in the industry, but to thrive in it. Students become confident and capable professionals who have access to a range of career opportunities, whether that’s a job at an internationally recognized company or pursuing their own startup.
By joining us, I promise that boredom will have no place in your education, and you will become the designer you aspire to be.
Neil Harner, MBA
Director, MS in User Experience & Interaction Design
Chair, Department of Design
Associate Professor