Product Design (MA)
Product Design (MA)
The MA program provides professional study within focused fields of product design, emphasizing both foundational skills and innovative practices. In addition to classroom and collaborative coursework, students are encouraged to incorporate artificial intelligence as a tool in the creative process, expanding their ability to generate, refine, and visualize design concepts. Each student develops a professional portfolio that will be used to launch a career in Product Design, with opportunities to focus their portfolios in areas such as Color, Materials, and Finishes (CMF), Design Research, Experience Design, or AI-enhanced design methods.
Master of Arts (MA) Degree
Available Online & On Campus
Major Classes
Unit Requirements
| Major Coursework | Units |
|---|---|
| Major Coursework | 33 |
| Graduate Liberal Arts | 3 |
| Total | 36 |
Degree Requirements
MA INDUSTRIAL DESIGN DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
- Successful completion of Final Thesis Project.
- Minimum grade of C in all required 36 units.
- Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and the following Academic Study requirements:
1 Cross Cultural Understanding course
Additional Information
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:
Visual Communication
- Produce work that demonstrates proficiency in branding, graphics, drawing, rendering, 3D modeling, and/or model making
- Communicate product forms, scales, dimensions, proportions, functions, component layout, and user interactions
Design Process
- Communicate findings from research and supporting materials
- Clearly define the problem/opportunity, hypothesis, main objectives, and design criteria deduced from research findings
- Use innovative processes and design methodologies to develop conceptually strong projects (including brainstorming, mapping, sketches, and synthesis/testing of many ideas)
- Produce variety of original design ideas that address set design criteria and evaluate them to determine the most appropriate design directions
- Explore and determine materials, color, form, manufacturing, ergonomics/human factors, and sustainability appropriate for the project(s)
Professional Readiness
- Produce a cohesive portfolio tailored to reflect career goals
- Communicate design story in clear and concise manner through portfolio pieces
- Exhibit graphic sensitivity in portfolio design
Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:
- Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
- Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
- Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skillsrelevant to their field.
- Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
- Use professional terminology to evaluate their work and work in the field.
- Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
- Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design
- Engage with a variety of communities beyond the classroom through internship opportunities, study abroad programs, athletics, student interest clubs, and participation in collaborative, civic, and pro bono projects.
*Semester plans are subject to change at any time. Semester breakdowns displayed are suggested and additional options are available to help customize your educational experience. Speak to an admissions or student services representative for more information. Please see our catalog for more details at: https://catalog.academyart.edu
