Designhögskolor

Designhögskolor is a term used in Swedish-speaking contexts to describe higher education institutions that specialize in design. These schools can be standalone colleges or part of larger universities and offer professional and academic training across design disciplines. Programs typically cover graphic design, industrial design, fashion and textile design, interior design, product design, interaction and user experience design, exhibition design, and related fields. The focus is usually on combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on studio work.

Curriculum in designhögskolor typically combines studio-based projects, critiques, workshops, and collaborations with industry partners. Students develop portfolios and prototypes, often working in interdisciplinary teams. Many programs award bachelor’s and master’s degrees, with study plans structured around European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits. Institutions also engage in research and innovation projects, sometimes in collaboration with the business sector or cultural institutions. Internships and international exchanges are common components of study.

In Sweden, designhögskolor include Konstfack in Stockholm, Beckmans College of Design, and Berghs School of Communication, among others. These institutions emphasize professional preparation for design practice and entrepreneurship, while also supporting academic inquiry in design theory and history. Globally, design schools operate within universities, art schools, and private colleges, reflecting a diverse ecosystem that ranges from traditional craft to digital design, sustainable design, and design thinking approaches.