Accreditation & Membership

Academic Division (Curaçao)

Design Studies Institute's Academic Division is committed to upholding the highest standards of academic excellence through rigorous accreditation of our programs and maintaining affiliations with respected industry organizations.

Accreditation

Accreditation Agency Curacao seal of accreditation.

Design Studies Institute has obtained accreditation from the Accreditation Agency Curaçao (AAC). The AAC accreditation represents a formal evaluation and quality assurance of our Doctor of Design, Master of Design, and Professional Certificate in Design Studies programs.

The Accreditation Agency Curaçao was established in 2017 and is an independent and professional organization responsible for accrediting higher education institutions in Curaçao. The agency is recognized by the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sport of Curaçao.

Visit the AAC's website for more information.

Research Division (New York, New York, USA)

The Design Studies Institute' Research Division advances non-partisan research, education, and public engagement initiatives to elevate awareness of design research and foster the career growth of emerging and established designers.

Public Charity Registration

The Design Studies Institute is a registered non-profit corporation in the State of New York, operating under Section 102(a)(5) of the New York Not-for-Profit Corporation Law. The Research Division is dedicated exclusively to charitable, educational, and scientific purposes.

Tax-Exempt Status

The Design Studies Institute is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, officially recognized by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Internal Revenue Service under EIN 92-1382312.

Not-FOR-Profit Transparency

The Design Studies Institute is proud to hold the Candid Bronze Transparency Seal, demonstrating our foundational commitment to accountability and openness. This recognition signifies our efforts to share essential information about our mission, governance, and finances.

Visit our Candid profile page for more information.