- ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE (A.A.S.) IN EXHIBITION & RETAIL DESIGN
Designing Experiences that Engage and Inspire
The Associate of Applied Science in Exhibition & Retail Design at Design University equips students to create immersive environments that tell stories, showcase ideas, and connect brands with audiences. In just two years, this fully online program blends spatial design, visual communication, and brand strategy to prepare learners to design dynamic spaces that inform, entertain, and influence behavior.
The curriculum covers exhibition planning, retail space design, lighting strategies, visitor flow, storytelling, and brand identity integration. Students learn to combine design aesthetics with functional strategies to shape experiences in museums, galleries, trade shows, retail stores, and cultural events. Special attention is given to interactive technologies, sustainable materials, and multi-sensory engagement, preparing graduates to design environments that are both innovative and responsible.
Global, Future-Ready Perspective
Exhibitions and retail spaces are cultural touchpoints that transcend geography. Our program emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity, inclusivity, and sustainability in shaping spaces for diverse audiences. Learners gain exposure to emerging trends in experiential marketing, AR/VR-enhanced exhibitions, and hybrid physical-digital retail environments, ensuring their skills remain competitive in today’s global creative economy.
Experiential Learning in a Digital Studio
Students engage in project-based simulations and collaborative critiques that replicate the real-world challenges of designing for clients, brands, and institutions. Guided by faculty and industry mentors, learners develop concepts, prototypes, and visual presentations that demonstrate both creative vision and strategic thinking. By graduation, students present a portfolio of exhibition and retail projects that reflect their ability to blend storytelling, branding, and design innovation.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in both cultural and commercial sectors, with opportunities ranging from independent practice to roles in design firms, cultural institutions, and global retail brands. Career opportunities include:
- Exhibition Designer
- Retail Space Designer
- Museum/Gallery Experience Designer
- Experiential Marketing Specialist
- Visual Merchandising Strategist
- Brand Environment Consultant
Entry Requirements: High school diploma (or equivalent).
Quick Program Overview
- Length: 2 Years (Online)
- Degree Awarded: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Exhibition & Retail Design
- Focus Areas: Exhibition planning • Retail design • Lighting • Visitor flow • Storytelling • Interactive & hybrid spaces
- Learning Style: Online interactive instructional videos & readings • Studio briefs • Prototypes • Client presentations with AI-enabled support
- Graduate Outcomes: Portfolio of exhibitions & retail spaces • Brand integration skills • Storytelling-driven design
- Why Choose This Program? Flexible • Affordable • Globally relevant • Cross-sector career paths
