Want to Learn More About a Career in Design?

Kansas City Design Discovery is a two-day program for high school and college students interested in studying Architecture, and would also like to learn about the contributing fields to architecture such as Urban Planning + Design, Landscape Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Industrial Design.

If you are considering studies in Architecture, or the related fields, this is your opportunity to find out more about what going to design school at UMKC and your eventual career might be like, as well as to learn the fundamentals and history of design. We’ll also cover how to prepare for college, what to look for in a collegiate design program and more about the design program at UMKC.

Design Discovery 2025 - Coming Soon!

Information starts getting sent out for the program in late February/early March. If you would like to receive emails regarding Design Discovery, please email sse@umkc.edu. If you are interested in participating in Design Discovery for 2025 or just have questions, email Prof. Dominic Musso. For information like 'what is it?', 'where is it?', or 'who should enroll?' and more, please see below.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Who can sign up?

• Students who have completed at least one year of high school
• Current, returning or new college students who are considering design as a career
• Students planning to attend or attending a different university may sign up for the course, but we encourage them to check out what programs their school has to offer before signing up here

Students already accepted into UMKC's design program will take the similar course, Survey of Design Professions, in the Fall so we encourage those students to save the spaces in Design Discovery for students still considering their options.

We can accommodate high school freshmen if space permits; however, open spots are rare. Email Dominic Musso with the student’s name and contact information to be placed on a waitlist.

Where is it held?

• Design Discovery is held on UMKC’s Volker Campus at Katz Hall but for parts of the day, we will venture out on tours around the building, campus, and the area.

When is it held?

• Design Discovery is normally held in the first or second week of June.

How much does it cost?

• The cost of the program is $150 per student, this includes lunch and parking.

• Questions about any accommodation(s) must be submited 2 weeks prior to the camp dates to insure we can provide a smooth experience for all students.

Are there scholarships?

• Scholarships have been established for the program. Applications for scholarships may be requested after enrollment opens for the program.

• For information regarding scholarships, please contact Prof. Dominic Musso at mussod@umkc.edu.

Is there a lot of walking involved?

• We take walking tours of the building, campus, and surrounding area. This usually amounts to walks being anywhere from 10 minutes up to an hour.  Our outdoor tour of the surrounding area takes around an hour round trip of walking.

What should I bring?

• We will provide you with any materials needed for the activities.

• The most important thing to bring is an open mind, and engaging spirit, and plenty of questions.

Enrollment Dates

Enrollmeny typically begins early March through late May.

Questions?

Contact Prof. Dominic Musso at mussod@umkc.edu.