Degree Requirements

The first-year experience is grounded in project-based work—both through semester-long courses and shorter studio intensives—complemented by provocative speakers and inspiring field trips. The second year focuses on business structures, environmental stewardship, design metrics, strategy, entrepreneurship and delight. The yearlong thesis project generates change-making, multidisciplinary work around a chosen field of inquiry, resulting in a comprehensive set, documentation, robust fluencies and a powerful professional network of advisors ready to help in the move toward professional practice.


The program ends with a public celebration around the power of design.


General Requirements 

  • Successful completion of 60 credits, including all required courses, the thesis project and paper. Documentation of all thesis projects must be on file with the MFA Products of Design Department to be eligible for degree conferral. 
  • A matriculation of two academic years is required. Students must complete their degree within four years, unless given an official extension by the provost. 
  • Products of Design grades on a pass/fail system. Students are required to remain in good academic standing. 


Note: Departmental requirements are subject to change by the department chair if the chair deems that such change is warranted.