Experiential Learning at the College of Design

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Students engage in hands‑on learning experiences that connect theory to practice through real sites, communities, and global contexts.

• Bruton Design Intensive Full‑scale, design‑build experiences that bridge concept, craft, and construction.
• Sustainable City Year Program (SCYP) Year‑long partnerships that connect students and courses with Oregon communities to address real sustainability and livability challenges through applied learning.
• Study Abroad & Field Schools Place‑based learning that deepens academic inquiry through cultural and environmental immersion.

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Our studio ecosystem brings teaching, making, critique, and production into shared spaces that support experimentation, collaboration, and professional practice.

• Studio Education Project‑driven, collaborative learning that integrates process, feedback, and iteration.
• School of Architecture & Environment Studios Studio classrooms that support hands‑on, iterative design learning through making, critique, and collaboration.
• School of Art + Design Studios Flexible studios for visual exploration, material research, and creative development.

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Students gain practical skills and technical confidence through access to tools, materials, and living systems.

• Woodshops Traditional and contemporary woodworking spaces supporting craft and construction.
• Urban Farm Experiential learning through food systems, sustainability, and land‑based practice.
• Portland Fabrication Lab Prototyping, digital fabrication, and advanced making technologies.

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Experiential learning is strengthened through belonging, shared purpose, and leadership opportunities outside the classroom.

• Academic Residential Communities (ARCs) Live‑learn environments centered on shared academic interests.
• First‑Year Interest Groups (FIGs) Small cohorts that build connection and confidence in the first year.
• Student Groups Spaces for leadership, creativity, advocacy, and collaboration