Higher Education in Design

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The founder of the Academy of Graphic Design and the Higher Academic School of Graphic Design (VASHGD), as well as a professor at the School of Design of the Institute of Social Sciences of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, holds the position of head of the department "Design." His contributions to the development of graphic design and educational programs in this field make him an authority in the professional community.

Design is a sought-after and popular profession, combining creativity and financial opportunity. Many aspire to master this specialty, but the question arises: is it necessary to study design for four years? What is the importance of higher education in this field? What role does a diploma play in employment, and how important is it for employers?

Higher education in design can provide the necessary skills and knowledge, but is not always a prerequisite for a successful career. Practical experience and a portfolio that demonstrates skill and originality are more important. Employers often value creativity and problem-solving skills, not just a diploma.

Modern technology and online courses provide numerous opportunities for self-education and professional growth in design. Most successful designers continue to learn and develop throughout their careers, which allows them to remain competitive in the market. Ultimately, the keys to success in the design profession are talent, perseverance, and a desire to constantly improve.

We discussed all these issues with Sergey Serov, one of the leading experts in the field of design and educational design in Russia.

In this interview, you will learn about:

• Can a poet and a choreographer teach design?
• What is creative pedagogy?
• Who is replacing old teachers?
• Should a designer be able to draw?

The subject principle assumes the need we encounter in the work process. The question of whether a designer should be able to draw remains relevant. Drawing skills can be useful, but they are not required for a successful designer. It is important to understand that modern design includes many aspects, such as working with color, form, composition, and user experience. Therefore, a designer can use a variety of tools and technologies that allow ideas to be realized without traditional drawing skills. Ultimately, the key aspects are creativity and the ability to find effective solutions to visual problems.

There are many opinions regarding the best way to enter the world of design. Many argue that the foundation for a successful design career is knowledge of academic drawing. However, there are many alternative paths. For example, creative experience in photography or other artistic practices can also provide a strong foundation for development in design. It is important to understand that a variety of approaches to learning and practicing design opens up a wealth of opportunities for creativity and self-expression.

Milton Glaser, creator of the famous "I Love New York" logo, emphasized the importance of learning to draw. He argued that drawing develops perseverance, focus, and concentration in students. These skills are crucial in design, enabling the creation of high-quality and thoughtful work. Learning to draw not only helps develop artistic abilities but also fosters critical thinking, which is essential for a successful career in design.

Drawing ability is not always a prerequisite for participation in our courses. We experiment with different teaching approaches. We have a traditional unit taught by experienced teachers and a contemporary course led by Sasha Golinsky, a contemporary artist. Both tracks cover the disciplines of "Academic Drawing" and "Academic Painting." Nevertheless, Sasha Golinsky offers students the opportunity to implement contemporary artistic projects, which allows them to expand the boundaries of traditional art and develop creativity.

Distance education has the potential to become an effective learning tool. On the one hand, access to online resources and platforms allows students to study materials at a time convenient for them and in a comfortable environment. On the other hand, the lack of personal interaction with teachers and classmates can negatively affect motivation and the level of information assimilation. However, modern technologies such as video conferencing and interactive assignments can create a dynamic learning environment. It's also important to consider individual student needs and adapt distance learning programs to maximize their effectiveness. Experiments are needed to understand how distance learning can impact the educational process. We are just beginning to explore this format. The experience of the All-Russian Academy of Art Education and Design (VASHGD) confirms that freedom in learning is truly effective. We have the opportunity to study remotely and then analyze the results of our graduates. Our school is launching an online bachelor's degree for the first time, which could be an important step in the development of design education.

This year, the RANEPA School of Design turns ten years old. This is a significant anniversary that allows us to take stock of the school's work. Over the past decade, the School has established itself as a leading educational center in the field of design, having trained many qualified specialists. The success of graduates, their achievements in the job market, and their participation in major projects demonstrate the high level of teaching and the relevance of the curricula. The RANEPA School of Design continues to develop, introducing innovative teaching methods and updating its courses in line with contemporary design trends.

The School's history is divided into two periods: the first five years, when it followed traditional design teaching methods, and the second period, when it began its transformation into the future-oriented "HASHGD 2.0." This year, we expect the first graduating class in the new format, so it is premature to draw conclusions.

The second five-year period did not begin from scratch, but rather built on the existing foundation formed through the experience of HASHGD and the continuity of the first five years. The School's distinctive feature lies in its unique combination of "real" and "unreal" design. The exhibition of the RANEPA Institute of Social Sciences School of Design, held at the Winzavod last summer, was dedicated to this concept and was titled "(Un)Real." This underscores the school's commitment to innovation and experimentation in design.

Currently, my students and I are working on a book dedicated to the entire decade. Ten years is a significant milestone, symbolizing not only the end of one cycle but also the beginning of a new one. We strive to make this project engaging and informative, reflecting on the key events and changes that have occurred during this time. This research will form the basis for a discussion of the prospects and challenges that await us in the future.