The MFA, or master's of fine arts, degree in graphic design at Rhode Island School of Design can be completed in two or three years. The two-year track is designed for students who hold undergraduate degrees in graphic design and the three-year track is suitable for students with degrees in non-design fields. Students in the three-year program take one year of preparatory courses in order to gain a solid grounding in color, theory and design skills. All students participate in graphic design studios and seminars that help them investigate possible topics to be explored in the master's thesis. The school maintains a design center with computers, printers, digital cameras and a darkroom to facilitate production of art projects. Applicants submit a portfolio of up to 40 images for review by an admission committee, along with undergraduate transcripts and three recommendation letters.
Rhode Island School of Design
Graphic Design Department
Two College Street
Providence, RI 02903
401-427-6956
gd.risd.edu
The master's degree program in graphic design at North Carolina State University can be completed in two years of full-time study. Students who do not have an undergraduate design degree can apply to a three-year program. Part-time study is not an option. The curriculum is comprised of design studio projects, seminars in which students write papers on selected topics such as global design and electives in design theory and typography. Students submit undergraduate transcripts, recommendation letters and up to 16 images for the application portfolio. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for admission to the master's degree program. Graduates of North Carolina State's master's degree program are prepared for careers as practicing designer, design researcher or teachers.
North Carolina State University
College of Design
Brooks Hall, Pullen Road
Raleigh, NC 27695-7701
919-515-8317
ncsu.edu
The two-year MFA program in graphic design at Maryland Institute College of Art provides students with the opportunity to study the history and uses of various forms of visual communication. The program curriculum includes design studios, seminars and electives in digital media and video. A thesis project is required and is worked in a core studio course that is taken each semester. The thesis can take on many forms, including print, animation, or video. Graduate applicants submit a resume, personal statement, transcripts, and portfolio of up to 20 images.
Maryland Institute College of Art
1300 West Mount Royal Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21217
410-669-9200
mica.edu