CAA research and outreach
Innovation in art, architecture, design and technology
Push the boundaries of art and design through exceptional student research opportunities that make a real impact — and begin on your first day, which is something few colleges in art, design or architecture offer.
In University of Idaho’s College of Art and Architecture (CAA), you’ll collaborate with faculty on art and design, architecture and virtual technology research that solves environmental, social and cultural challenges in Idaho and across the globe. Together, you’ll transform ideas into solutions that strengthen communities and contribute to a better, more sustainable future.
Research at CAA is hands-on from the start and is what differentiates our programs. You could develop virtual reality applications in entertainment, education and science through the Virtual Reality Lab or use data-driven climate modeling in landscape architecture to support agricultural planning. These experiences build your professional skills and expand your creative perspective. Explore the people, places and projects that make research and outreach at CAA an essential part of every student’s education.
Find your path in art and architecture
Student research opportunities in the classroom and beyond
At CAA, research is built into every aspect of how you learn. Faculty who are internationally recognized for their knowledge bring their expertise directly into the studio and classroom. guiding you as you test ideas, solve problems and create new possibilities. You’ll have opportunities to apply coursework and participate in research addressing some of the most pressing issues facing communities today, often through an immersive studio experience.
Through this unique work, you’ll build a portfolio that sets you apart, develop problem-solving skills and discover how to turn ideas into results across research areas such as:
- Architecture: Design resilient, net-zero buildings.
- Art and design: Explore social impact through research in graphic design and digital and traditional media.
- Interior architecture and design: Reimagine human-centered interiors that inspire connection.
- Environmental design and landscape architecture: Model data-driven landscapes that balance ecology and community.
- Virtual technology: Build immersive simulations for science, education and entertainment.
Stories of discovery and impact
Explore how students and faculty in the College of Art and Architecture are putting research into action. From collaborative design projects to local partnerships, these stories highlight projects that solve real problems and advance the future of virtual technology, art, design and architecture.
Filters
Fiddlesticks, no results.
Please try another search.
Art and architecture studios and labs that spark creativity
Hands-on learning happens every day in CAA’s world-class studios and labs. These spaces encourage experimentation, support student research and provide access to the modern tools professionals use in the field. What will you design or discover here?
Research centers
The College of Art and Architecture houses two leading research centers: the Center for Resilient Communities and the Integrated Design Lab. Within these unique outreach initiatives, faculty, students and partners collaborate across disciplines to conduct research that supports Idaho’s communities, helps local industries grow and advances sustainable solutions for the region. Few institutions give students the chance to contribute to research centers whose work shapes real outcomes.
Center for Resilient Communities
The Center for Resilient Communities (CRC) brings researchers, students and community partners together so Idaho and the broader Western region can prepare for and adapt to social, economic and environmental change. Established in 2014, the CRC studies how communities respond to challenges such as food security and disaster recovery and turns findings into practical strategies that strengthen local resilience. Its collaborations with the United States Department of Homeland Security and other national organizations extend CAA’s impact well beyond campus.
Discover how the Center for Resilient Communities strengthens Idaho’s future
Integrated Design Lab
Based in Boise, the Integrated Design Lab (IDL) leads research in energy-efficient and human-centered building design across the Intermountain West. The lab partners with architects, engineers and policymakers to advance Boise’s goal of carbon-neutral development by 2030. Through IDL, you gain firsthand experience working on real projects in sustainable architecture.
Learn more about the Integrated Design Lab's impact in Boise
Shape the future of art, design, virtual technology and architecture
At University of Idaho’s College of Art and Architecture, your research can change how people live, work and experience the world. Join a community where you’ll have real opportunities to apply your research and collaborate with faculty and community partners to make a measurable difference through outreach. Request more information or apply now!