July 8-August 16, 2013

This summer, make stuff that makes sense.

The Hampshire College Design and Innovation for Social Change Summer Program (HC-DISC) blends critical social inquiry and applied design; appropriate technology; alternative energy and transportation; social entrepreneurship; and art and technology.

Through experiential means, this six-week summer program will expose students to the concepts, methods, and practices through which design-based change happens. We will work in teams to bring innovative class project ideas to life though the design/build prototype process.

This year’s theme is Sustainable Towns and Cities.
Examples of potential project areas include:

• Food and urbanism
• Renewable energy
• Transportation
• Energy production
• Water resources/access

Students will:

• Think globally, design locally: Taking a global look at environmental, economic, and energy sustainability as a framework for designing local responses to world challenges
• Use fabrication facilities to explore design solutions
• Explore principles and practices of social entrepreneurship to think through bringing solutions to market and building a social enterprise

Application Deadline
Applications are available online.

Tuition and Fees
Due to the rigorous nature of the program, residence on campus is strongly recommended. Required costs to the student include:

6 Week, 8 Credit Equivalent
Tuition: $3,100
Room: $1,050 (for residential students)
Meals: $1,289

If you are a Hampshire student interested in seeking financial aid, you should indicate your intent on the application. The financial aid office will be notified directly and will determine if you have any remaining 2012-2013 eligibility for federal grant and loan funds. Students from other colleges should check with their home institutions regarding available financial aid.

Health Insurance
Please note that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires all students to carry health insurance. Upon acceptance to the program, you will be asked to provide proof of insurance or required to purchase temporary coverage that could increase the overall program cost.