A Qualitative Study of the Curriculum of Visual Communication Design Majors at University A: Based on NASAD, a Design Certification System in the U.S.

Background Considering the characteristics of the design field which smartly reflects the change of the reality, various studies and constant innovations in design education at universities are needed. This study aimed to analyze the undergraduate curriculum of university A(Korean domestic university) based on the standards of NASAD, an accrediting organization of colleges, schools and universities in the United States, and to obtain quantitative and qualitative data capable of serving as design education indicators. Methods This study involved a literature review and a field research that includes a questionnaire. First, curricula and syllabuses uesd by visual communication design majors at University A were compared with ability indicators in the NASAD handbook, including essential competencies, opportunities, and experiences. Second, after conducting a question investigation and interviews with lecturers, these outcomes were compared and analyzed to obtain insight into design education. Results As a result of the survey, the curriculum design of University A and the actual lecture progress of the instructors showed differences in the distribution, suggesting that the instructors found and judged various major essential competencies according to the trends of the times and student needs. In addition, not only the distribution, but also the instructor's class contents and lecture methods became apparent through a subjective questionnaire focusing on each instructor's class progress. Conclusions Through the above results, it can be emphasized that the importance of communication between universities, instructors and students is important to enhance the quality of education. In addition, it can be expected that the results of this study will be used as educational materials to facilitate communication between lecturers and their universities.