Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Design
A degree that combines creativity, systems thinking, and sustainability to solve real-world challenges.
→ Follow a Unique, Interdisciplinary Path
→ Gain Skills for Real Impact
→ Shape a More Sustainable Future
What is the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Design?
The Sustainable Design Program incorporates design, architecture, landscape architecture, and urban and regional planning to address the places, things, systems, and policies needed to help solve problems in a sustainable society. Students follow an innovative, interdisciplinary, and unique course of study that prepares them for jobs in the public or private sector, or to continue their education in a variety of graduate programs.
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News & Events
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A big thank you to ISEE for bringing the campus sustainability community together at the first Sustainability Open House.
It was a pleasure to share what is happening in the Sustainable Design Program and to learn from others working toward a more sustainable future. We`re honored that Director Karin Hodgin Jones was invited to participate in the Research & Education panel, highlighting the many pathways for students to engage in sustainability at Illinois.
Within this event, BSSD shared flyers highlighting collaborative work with SSC on campus to expand opportunities and build connections as well as sharing information on the Waste Transfer Station Mural and the Solar Mill project with Root to Roof.
@sustainillinois
@ssc_illinois
@uofifs
@zerowasteatillinois
@involvedillini
@illinoisnres
@uiuc_eses
Let`s welcome Catalina Alzate Mora to the Sustainable Design Program!
Catalina will be teaching the Spring 27, FAA 431: Sustainable Design Capstone Studio. We’re thrilled to have her as part of the program and can’t wait to see the fresh perspectives, ideas, and knowledge she’ll bring to our BSSD students!
What is your profession? Can you tell us more about it?
I studied design as an undergraduate in Colombia, and hold an MFA in Arts, Technology and Emerging Communication. As an undergrad, I was trained to approach design as a way of understanding systems, facilitating collaboration, and using visual tools to think through complex problems collectively. I currently direct the Critical Anatomies Lab, conducting design research on health equity, community well-being and emerging technologies.
How is sustainable design integrated into your career?
I think of sustainability as creating the conditions for the continuity of the systems we affect or bring into being. One way in which I integrate sustainability in my projects is by analyzing root causes, so projects can produce lasting change. I also work with participatory mindsets and pedagogies because I believe people should be involved in making decisions that affect them. Sustainability is also about nurturing and sustaining relationships, so design interventions are cared for and hence sustainable over time.
How did you get to where you are now? (education path, internship`s, prior experiences, etc.)
I have worked professionally in design studios, start-up incubators, research hubs, and as a consultant in design, technology and social justice. Before joining U of I, I was a Faculty at Srishti Institute of Art Design and Technology in Bangalore, India, and at the School of Design and Creative Technologies at UT Austin. I’ve been involved in projects related to Participatory Design + Community Health for the past 9 years.
The Event will be Rescheduled!
Field Trip to Sustainable Hardwood Forest and Timberworks!
Join us: Date and time to be updated
All day field trip to Galesburg, IL
Learn about the life cycle of sustainably managed timber and the durability of timber frame structures.
What’s been happening in FAA 430: Sustainability Design Capstone?
Last week, BSSD students researched and presented case studies in under 7 minutes! This assignment introduced students to the PechaKucha presentation style while helping them explore case studies that could inspire their own capstone projects.
We’re excited to see how students build on these ideas and bring their sustainability-focused capstone projects to life!
Presentations consisted of:
- Wood From Food Waste
- Sidewalk Redesign
- Urban Heat Island Control
- Bioplastic Furniture
- Building Repurpose
- Land Restoration
- Clothing Reuse
- Stream Restoration
@symmetry_wood
@gabetavas
#BSSDalumni
Yes, Gabe, Pyrus is now a precedent study for current Sustainable Design student research.
Location changed for Info Session!
Are you Interested in participating in ARCH 499: Community-Based Sustainable Design in Puerto Rico Course?
Dr. Yazmín M Crespo-Claudio will host an information session to share the rich history of this course and the community of Casa Pueblo in Adjuntas, Pr.
Join the next cohort and become part of this growing community!
Sustainable Design Students are encouraged to apply!
@archatillinois
@sustainabledesignil
@casapuebloorg
@y_crespo
BSSD opportunity scholarships for fall 2026 applications are now open!
This scholarship is designed to provide financial support to students within the Sustainable Design program to pursue academic and professional opportunities that would not be attainable without additional funding.
Apply now--> https://go.illinois.edu/BSSDOpportunityScholarship
Deadline: October 26, 11:59 PM
Awards are $300 or $500. Winners will be notified by October 30.
Signed acceptance letters from winners will be due to BSSD by November 4.
Images contain examples of Past BSSD Opportunity Scholarship Recipient Projects. You can view all past BSSD Opportunity Scholarship Projects at www.instagram.com/sustainabledesignil
Did you know FAA offers faculty-led, short-term study abroad opportunities?
With so many programs to choose from, there’s an opportunity for every student to experience new cultures, participate in hands-on workshops, and learn beyond the classroom!
For general study abroad advising, please schedule with Andy Hinnant. For course planning your study abroad, please meet with BSSD Coordinator Ashley Smart.
Intrested? Scroll to read more!
FAA Faculty-Led: London: Urban Design & Sustainability
Spring break 2027
Prof. Ben LeRoy, Academic Advisor & Instructor, Department of Urban and Regional Planning
Course: UP 494, 3 credit hours
Deadline to apply: November 1st
FAA Faculty-Led: Basque Design Center in Spain
May 27 - June 6, 2027
Prof. Savio Mukachirayil, Assistant Professor, Industrial Design, School of Art & Design
Course: FAA 313, 3 credit hours
Deadline to apply: December 7th
FAA Faculty-Led: Community-Based Sustainable Design at Casa Pueblo in Puerto Rico
Spring break 2027
Prof. Yazmin Crespo Claudio, Assistant Professor, School of Architecture
Course: ARCH 499, 4 credit hours
Deadline to apply: TBD
Information Session Monday October 19, 12:00PM in the Cafe in Temple Buell Hall.
FAA Faculty-Led: Urban Sustainability in Copenhagen
May 18-28, 2027
Prof. Dustin Allred
Course: UP 494, 3 credit hours’
Deadline to apply: December 1st
Come learn about the 4+1 programs open for juniors in BAUSP and BSSD!
The Department of Urban and Regional Planning invites Juniors in the BAUSP and BSSD programs to join us for an information session about the 4+1 program.
The 4+1 program allows highly qualified BAUSP and BSSD students with senior standing to complete their undergraduate degree and Master of Urban Planning (MUP) degree in a total of 5 years.
Students apply in their Junior year, and if admitted in the 4+1 program, begin taking graduate courses in their senior year. Join us for an information session on the 4+1 program and how to apply.
This event is organized by the department of Urban and Regional Planning.
Friday, October 16, 2026
Noon- 1:00 pm
TBH 227
We hope to see you there!
