Bachelor of ArtsDesign, Arts and Technology

DAT Students at Majors and Minors Fair

Enhance your major with a secondary degree in Design, Arts and Technology.

Program Overview

The Design, Arts and Technology (DAT) program is a secondary major that integrates the fine and applied arts with digital technology. Students must complete the required courses for the DAT major along with the requirements of a complementary major: Art, Business, Communication, English, Psychology, or Theatre. Students must also complete a three-hour internship, ideally in their complementary major.

The DAT program fosters creativity in digital media design and allows students to develop skills in a variety of areas, including:

  • Website Development and Design
  • Film and Video Production
  • Sound Editing and Audio Production
  • Multimedia Art 
  • Graphic Design
  • 2D Animation
  • Communications Technology

Program Highlights

Combined with the depth of a primary major, the breadth of the Design, Arts and Technology major prepares students for the challenges of the multimedia field and makes them more marketable for careers that incorporate digital technology. Throughout the program, students will gain expertise in Adobe Creative Cloud, website content management software, and digital audio workstations, producing work that can be used for a professional portfolio. The program's curriculum is interdisciplinary and is taught by faculty who specialize in digital photography, technical communication, graphic design, digital media, music technology, film, and entrepreneurship. DAT students’ complementary major must be in Art, Business, Communication, English or Psychology.

Shae Goodlett ‘17

“As a commercial illustrator, my background in the Design, Arts and Technology program at Bellarmine informs my work every day. In a very competitive field, learning the ins and outs of various design software has given me a leg up on becoming a more marketable/versatile artist. The skill-set you will acquire through the DAT program will make a lasting impact on your professional career. But, more importantly, your overall experience at Bellarmine, the friends you make, and the people you meet, will make a lasting impact on your life.”

Shae Goodlett ‘17

Frequently Asked Questions

Are personal computers or laptops required?

No. The university computer labs contain the hardware and software needed to complete all coursework. However, many students choose to purchase a laptop loaded with Adobe Photoshop and other programs frequently used in class.

Is any other equipment required?

All Design, Arts and Technology majors must complete a video course. Some courses require students to have access to a video camera that is not provided by the program. Check for details in the Schedule of Classes when you register for courses. Elective courses, such as digital photography or digital illustration, may require students to use their own equipment.

Do I need to have any specific technology skills before I enter the program?

No. Students at all levels of technological literacy are welcome in the Design, Arts and Technology program.

Do I need to have any design experience before I enter the program?

No. Students at all skill levels in design are welcome in the Design, Arts and Technology program.

Do I need to have artistic talent to complete this major, or can I focus on design and technology?

Artistic skills are developed as part of the coursework for the major. They are not required prior to entering the program. Students will work with a variety of faculty who have backgrounds in Communication, Art, Music Technology, and other fields during the course of study.

What kinds of capstone projects do students typically undertake?

Capstone projects are designed to allow students to focus on a creative, technology-driven project of their choosing. Past seniors have worked in web design, print design, illustration, audio, video, animation, and digital photography. Students are encouraged to be creative and to design projects that highlight their personal interests and skill sets.

Am I required to complete an internship in both DAT and my other major?

No. DAT majors are required to complete one internship; however, many complete more than one to gain additional work experience. The DAT internship requirement is automatically fulfilled by completing any required internships in your second major.

Accreditation

Bellarmine University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees.

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Contact Information

  • Zackary Ross, Ph.D.
  • Fine Arts & Communication Division Chair
  • Phone: 502.272.8431
  • Email: zross@bellarmine.edu