Nearly 30 students have already applied to the new Integrated Design applied bachelor’s degree offered for the first time at Highline College this fall.

The new degree will offer flexible courses in visual design, technology and leadership with an emphasis in accessibility and universal design.

Tamara Hilton, who helped develop the curriculum for the new program, said in May that the new degree will offer a holistic approach to design through the lens of <equity as well.

Currently, three in four designers in King County are white, according to 2017 data from Emsi, a subscription service that provides employment data for colleges and universities.

With more than 70 percent students of color, Highline ranks as the most diverse higher education institution in the state, reflecting the diversity of South King County, where more than 130 languages are spoken.

The composition of Highline’s student body gives the college a unique opportunity to diversify the design workforce to reflect the ethnic diversity of South King County.
Julliannea Plummer, a student who was accepted to the program, said she decided to pursue the Integrated Design bachelor’s degree because she enjoys creating designs that integrates what companies envision.

“This graphic designing is a challenge,” she said. “With a degree in Integrated Design, I will be able to help clients reach their targeted audience.”

Plummer will receive her associate degree in visual communications at the end of summer quarter 2019 before starting the Integrated Design degree in fall 2019.
Those who hold an associate degree in any applied science subject area are eligible to apply for enrollment in the applied bachelor’s degree program in Integrated Design.
“We knew demand would be there when we began developing the curriculum,” Hilton said. “Students want the four-year degree and there simply aren’t education options in South King County.”

But the demand goes both ways. Most employers want graduates of these programs to have a bachelor’s degree. By offering this degree, she feels students are more marketable.
Interested in applying?

Learn more about Highline’s applied bachelor’s degree in Integrated Design.