This summer, Thomas Jefferson University launched the College of Architecture, Design & Engineering, the College of Fashion & Textiles, and the College of Business, creating new opportunities to elevate disciplines that have helped define the University's identity for decades. The change reflects the strength of a vibrant design culture that has long connected creativity, innovation, and human impact.

Collaboration is central to the Jefferson experience because meaningful solutions emerge when diverse perspectives come together. Students and faculty tackle challenges and generate ideas that do not fit neatly into a single area of study – topics like sustainable materials, advanced manufacturing, wearable technologies, and human-centered design.

For students, the collaborative, hands-on environment translates into meaningful outcomes. Data from the class of 2025 shows that 92% of graduates were employed or continuing their education within a year of graduation. Strong industry partnerships, experiential learning opportunities and a curriculum closely connected to professional practice drives this outcome. Career fairs, design expos, internships, and employer engagement help students move confidently from classroom to career.

The reorganization marks a pivotal step in the College of Business’ evolution and a moment of renewed purpose. The new structure strengthens Jefferson’s voice in a highly competitive educational landscape and positions the University to build even stronger relationships with employers, alumni, and collaborators. The College of Business will continue to be grounded in interdisciplinary thinking, collaboration, creative problem-solving, and a willingness to challenge convention. 

The College of Architecture, Design & Engineering brings together architecture, interior design, industrial design, engineering, construction management, landscape architecture and sustainable environments, creating a dynamic place where students learn not only from faculty and industry experts in their chosen discipline, but also from peers approaching problems through different lenses. Whether designing products, planning public spaces or developing new technologies, students are encouraged to think beyond traditional boundaries.

The College of Fashion & Textiles is rooted in its distinction as the first textile school in the nation and strengthened by globally recognized fashion programs. Students in textile design, textile technology, fashion design, and fashion merchandising and management learn from faculty who are innovators grounded in heritage, makers guided by purpose, and leaders prepared for impact. The college is home to the Fashion & Textiles Futures Center which immerses students in experiences that mirror industry, including research opportunities, industry-sponsored projects.

Through initiatives such as the Center for Immersive Arts for Health, the Institute for Smart and Healthy Cities, and the Synesthetic Research & Design Lab, students and faculty work together to address issues such as climate resilience, the impact of immersive art, and neurodiversity and the built environment.

Faculty members are not only practitioners and educators but also contributors to conversations shaping the future of design disciplines. Architecture faculty member Eric Bellin's recent research explores how the concept of "detail" has shaped architectural thinking and building practice over centuries, demonstrating the intellectual curiosity that informs teaching and design exploration across the University.

Jefferson is proud to be part of Philadelphia’s vibrant design community.