An Introduction to Biomimicry: A Sustainable Design Methodology (Online) | Minneapolis College of Art and Design

An Introduction to Biomimicry: A Sustainable Design Methodology (Online)

Nature offers boundless inspiration for sustainable design, but how does one access the wealth of biological information available and apply it effectively to design?

Course description

Each week of this course is composed of three lessons that follow these main themes: Biomimicry Basics, Observing Nature, and Biomimic's Design Studio. A typical lesson includes an introduction to the topic, readings, and an ungraded assignment. Course activities include getting outside to explore nature and learning a key biomimicry design concept, and applying that concept to develop a novel biomimetic design. This introductory course is primarily self-directed, with peer-to-peer feedback and engagement. An instructor is present to facilitate and provide guidance, but individual feedback is limited.

Open to students ages 18 and above. Review complete policies, including class cancellation policies, before completing your registration.

Class meeting details

This online course is asynchronous. There are no set class meeting times. Instead, the course is project-based, with 2 to 3 deadlines per week, and students can choose a time and place that works best for them to complete the work. Course activities may include readings, video demonstrations and tutorials, online discussions, projects, and critiques.

Prerequisites

None

Required materials

Hardware
A computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access, and a way to upload work.

Textbooks
See canvas.mcad.edu/books for a list of required textbooks.

Class resources

This class uses Canvas, MCAD’s learning management system. Please see the link for more information.

Class savings

Register on or before January 19 and save $25.
Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).
Additional savings. Are you eligible?

Questions

Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765.

Register

Title
Non-credit Tuition
$50.00
Not Yet Open for Registration

Registration opens January 5.

  • Date:
    -
  • Time:
    Asynchronous
  • Day(s) of the week:
    Asynchronous
  • Ages:
    Open to students ages 18 and above.
  • Term:
    Spring 2026
  • Instructor: Stefanie Koehler
  • Location:
    Online
  • SKU:
    CSSD 5601 20 SP26

Prerequisites:

None