As one of the courses offered in the online Digital Design Literacy Certificate, Professor Mike McKay’s DES385 class introduces non-majors to digital design and making techniques. Changes with digital software and the available market for affordable personal maker machines (desktop 3D printers, laser cutters, etc.) have made accessible a world of making that was previously not available to the general public. Whether making craft projects for your family or prototyping products to sell in the marketplace, accessibility to the necessary technologies is easier than ever.

The course covers a wide range of software and output machines as well as a brief understanding of design techniques and best practices. Over the course of the semester, students will design and fabricate two projects: a small vase form (seen here) and a large hanging lamp.