During their time in the program, students become familiar with a variety of research methods reflected in the diversity of our faculty. Students develop their research and creative practice with an understanding of key design issues within history, theory, research and methodologies. Through a series of core courses, students progress alongside the members of their cohort, while they simultaneously advance their individual theses through upper-division courses, and graduate-level independent and group studies. The MFA core courses include the following:

• Theory and Issues in Design
• Research Methods and Critical Writing for Design
• Professional Practice and Ethics in Design
• Studio Practice in Design
• Studio Practice and Critique
• Exhibition Design

The MFA program culminates in a written thesis, as well as a thesis project and exhibition.