Graphic Design Track: MFA, MS, & PhD
About the Program
As a graduate student pursuing the graphic design track, you will focus on design theory, process, and methods related to design practice and research. You will collaborate with faculty members to develop designed objects and information resources that will enhance people’s lives. The program integrates theory with practice in the application of emergent and established technologies to digital design solutions. To obtain your master's degree, you must complete a creative thesis based on your explorations; for a PhD, you will need to complete a research-based dissertation. Your degree-related research will help specialize your practice and give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Potential areas of specialization include:
- Multicultural communication
- Visual representation of information
- Human interaction with designed objects
- Social and cultural implications of design
- Color systems and perception
- Design history
- Design education
Master of Science Degree Option
Students pursuing a Master of Science have two separate degree plans to choose from. Plan A is more thesis-focused and is considered preparatory for pursuing a PhD. Plan B is project-based and aimed at career advancement.
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The credit amounts shown above are the foundation level required; additional coursework may be required.
Master of Fine Arts Degree Option
The MFA degree path in the graphic design track of the design graduate program is intended for students interested in more intensive master-level study. This degree requires a rigorous capstone project.
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Doctor of Philosophy Degree Option
Doctoral study in the apparel studies track of the design graduate program is intended for students interested in academic research and scholarship who seek to become professors.
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Our faculty have a wealth of experience in both traditional and innovative ways of making and researching from exploring user experience design and creativity to screenprinting, etching, and typography. No matter their background, our faculty work to improve the quality of life for people through both processes and the design of physical objects.
