Design Studies in Design for Human Health

Overview

Students in the Design Studies in Design for Human Health program offered by Boston Architectural College gain specialized knowledge and skills in the growing field of designing for human health and wellness. The unique curriculum teaches students to assess and propose design improvements in private and public spaces that respond to human needs, with the goal of complementing and enhancing physical activity, cognitive performance, and psychological health and well-being.

Courses examine universal design, environmental psychology, sociology, anthropology, and neurobiology as related to health and theories of well-being, exploring the ways these concepts intersect with design theory. Students confront real world problems, brainstorming solutions, and developing prototypes of their own designs. The program culminates in a practical thesis project that investigates a specific subject of interest. 

Program Outcomes

• Assess private, public, and community environments based on the human dimensions of physical activity, cognitive performance, and personal wellbeing.

• Identify relevant information from design evidence (for instance. physiology, psychology, ethnography) intended to enhance human health and wellbeing via optimal designs.

• Develop aesthetically pleasing and functional designs for a specific health concern.

• Identify finish materials known to promote or detract from optimal physical, emotional and cognitive health.

• Propose design interventions to improve physical, emotional or cognitive health conditions impacted by the built environment.