A project-oriented program, requiring research into design methods and technologies. Industry collaboratives provide an experiential dimension.

The MFA industrial design program is project-oriented, requiring research into design methods and technologies. Industry collaboration provides an experiential dimension. The first year of study includes major emphasis in equipment design, consumer product design and furniture design, and computer-aided design using Alias software. The second year, students develop a thesis project which includes an exhibition and written thesis report.

The master of fine arts degree program is available for students pursuing specialized study in industrial design at the graduate level for the purpose of career enhancement or redirection. The educational experience is project oriented, requiring research into design methods and technologies. Industry collaboratives provide an experiential dimension.

The first year of study includes seminar courses in design history, issues, research, theory and methods, which are common to all graduate students in the School of Design. In addition, there are studio courses that involve extensive design work with respect to environmental issues, the meaning of artifacts, and critical analysis. Extensive work using 3D software for product modeling and animation fills out the program.

In the second year, students conduct research and develop a thesis project, which is presented in a graduate thesis exhibition or presentation and is documented in a written thesis report.