Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree - Industrial Design

Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

MFA Thesis Project

Present an original thesis concept worthy of the MFA degree
Demonstrate the feasibility of their thesis project
Explain the relevance of their project to their professional goals
Complete an approved body of work which represents an advanced level of achievement in their area of focus
Research & Analysis

Clearly define the problem/opportunity, hypothesis, main objectives, and product requirements in their project brief
Conduct adequate research and communicate findings using appropriate supporting materials
Visual Communication

Produce work that demonstrates proficiency in branding, graphics, drawing, rendering, 3D modeling, and model making
Design Process

Explore materials, color, form, manufacturing, ergonomics/human factors, and sustainability
Incorporate understanding of costs, bill of materials, and specifications into design planning process
Use innovative processes and design methodologies to develop conceptually strong projects (including brainstorming, mapping, sketches, and synthesis/testing of many ideas)
Explore secondary designs: packaging, engineering, user interface, and/or user experience
Presentation Skills

Give clear and concise professional presentations (verbal and visual)
Accurately present their ideas in writing
Professional Readiness

Produce a professional portfolio of work demonstrating their skills to a potential employer
Organize a final, stand-alone gallery exhibit of their completed thesis project

MFA Industrial Design Degree Requirements

Successful completion of Final Thesis Project
Minimum grade of C in all required 63 units
Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and the following Academic Study requirements:
1 Art Historical Awareness & Aesthetic course
1 Cross Cultural Understanding course