| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MFA in Design Studies fosters creative thinking, exploration, and innovation in design execution. The program emphasizes core theories and practices, offering specialized studio work in Textile and Fashion Design or Interior Architecture. Students develop interdisciplinary skills and culminate their studies with a thesis project that showcases their creative and intellectual abilities, preparing them for diverse careers in the design industry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Fine Arts degree (MFA) in Design Studies aims to foster strong, creative conceptual thinking, exploration, interpretation, innovation, and overall excellence in design execution. The program places an emphasis on creative performance and provides students with a foundation in theories, creative practices, and seminars relevant to studio-based inquiry.
Outline:
The curriculum of the MFA in Design Studies comprises both core courses and specialized studio work, encompassing a minimum of 60 credits. Students are encouraged to enroll in core courses within their first two years to establish a body of knowledge in theories and creative practices. Core courses include: Theories and Perspectives in Human Ecology: Explores theoretical frameworks in human ecology and design. Methods and Theory in Design and Culture: Focuses on methodologies and theories in design research and creative practice. Seminar in Design Studies: Provides opportunities for students to engage in advanced topics and research in design. Seminar Course in Art or Design Studies: Allows students to delve into specialized areas within art or design, typically involving historical, critical, or theoretical perspectives. In addition to core courses, the program offers two general areas of focus for studio work: Textile and Fashion Design (TFD): Emphasizes conceptual, technical, and aesthetic exploration in textiles and clothing. Interior Architecture (IA): Concentrates on innovative applications of design strategies within interior environments. Students are required to complete a substantial studio work component and may take courses from other departments to develop an interdisciplinary framework for their work. The program culminates in a final thesis project that includes a studio component, a written component, and an oral defense. The thesis is supervised by the student's major advisor and must receive approval from their thesis committee.
Assessment:
Students in the MFA Design Studies program are evaluated based on their performance in coursework, studio work, and the final thesis project. Coursework assignments may include design projects, essays, and presentations. Studio work is assessed through regular critiques and feedback from faculty and peers. The final thesis project undergoes a comprehensive evaluation by the student's thesis committee, considering both the creative and intellectual merits of the work.
Teaching:
Instruction in the MFA Design Studies program is provided by experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in design research and creative practice. Teaching methods vary depending on the specific course or studio, but may include lectures, discussions, workshops, guest speakers, and field trips. Students benefit from individualized attention and mentorship from their faculty advisors, who guide them throughout their academic journey.
Careers:
The MFA in Design Studies prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in design fields, including: Textile and Fashion Designer: Develop and create original textile and clothing designs for various purposes. Interior Designer: Plan and design interior spaces, considering functionality, aesthetics, and human needs. Industrial Designer: Design functional and aesthetically pleasing products and experiences for consumers. Graphic Designer: Create visual content for various platforms, including branding, advertising, and user interfaces. Design Researcher: Conduct research and develop insights to inform design decisions and improve user experiences. Educator: Teach design courses at universities or design schools, inspiring future generations of designers.
