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San Francisco State University

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California

United States

The MA in Design program at San Francisco State University offers a comprehensive educational journey for students aspiring to excel in the dynamic fields of design and applied arts. As a public university renowned for its innovative teaching methods and commitment to student success, SFSU provides an engaging curriculum that emphasizes both theory and practice. This program is specifically tailored for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of design principles, explore creative expression, and develop practical skills that are essential in today’s competitive job market.

The curriculum for the MA in Design is thoughtfully curated to encompass a wide range of topics within the design spectrum. Core courses include Design Theory, Visual Communication, and Design Research Methods, which lay the foundation for advanced studies. In addition to these core subjects, students have the opportunity to choose from various electives that cover areas such as Digital Design, Product Development, and Sustainable Design Practices. This blend of required and elective courses ensures that students can tailor their education to align with their personal interests and career aspirations.

One of the significant strengths of the MA in Design program is its faculty. The teaching staff comprises accomplished professionals and experienced academics who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom. Faculty members are not only passionate about teaching but also actively engage in research projects that contribute to the field of design. This dual focus enables students to learn from their professors while also potentially participating in groundbreaking research initiatives. The faculty’s commitment to fostering a collaborative learning environment ensures that students receive personalized attention and mentorship throughout their academic journey.

Research opportunities at San Francisco State University are abundant, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. The university houses high-end labs equipped with the latest technologies, enabling students to experiment and push the boundaries of design. Additionally, students have the chance to collaborate with local industry partners on real-world projects, which not only enhances their academic experience but also provides invaluable networking opportunities. These collaborations often lead to internships, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and build professional connections that are crucial in the competitive job market.

Career pathways for graduates of the MA in Design program are diverse and promising. Alumni have successfully secured positions in various sectors, including graphic design, product design, UX/UI design, and branding. The program’s strong emphasis on practical skills and industry connections equips students with the tools necessary to thrive in their chosen professions. Furthermore, the university’s robust career services offer comprehensive support, including resume workshops, job placement assistance, and access to exclusive job fairs, enhancing the prospects for graduates seeking employment in their field.

The success stories of alumni from the MA in Design program speak volumes about the program's effectiveness. Many graduates have launched successful careers in top design firms or have made significant contributions to the industry as independent designers. Their testimonials highlight not only the quality of education received but also the supportive community and enriching experiences that SFSU offers. Alumni often return to share their insights and experiences with current students, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the program.

In addition to its impressive curriculum and faculty, the MA in Design program at San Francisco State University stands out for its unique features. The program fosters a diverse and inclusive environment where students from various cultural backgrounds come together to share ideas and perspectives. This diversity enriches the learning experience and encourages creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Additionally, the location of the university in the vibrant city of San Francisco provides students with access to a thriving arts and design community, further enhancing their educational experience.

For prospective students, the MA in Design program at San Francisco State University has certain prerequisites and requirements. Applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field, along with a strong portfolio showcasing their design work. Furthermore, proficiency in English is essential for non-native speakers, with standardized test scores from IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL required to demonstrate language competency.

The application process includes a non-refundable application fee of $70. While specific admission deadlines may vary, students are encouraged to apply early to secure their place in this competitive program. The university promotes a holistic review process, considering both academic qualifications and creative potential.

Why Study Design at San Francisco State University

  • A popular choice for international students with a diverse community, fostering a rich cultural exchange and collaboration.
  • Learn from the best faculty members who are leaders in their fields and become their research assistants, gaining invaluable mentorship.
  • Access high-end labs and facilities that facilitate innovative research work and hands-on project experiences.
  • Excellent placement programs post-graduation, ensuring students are well-equipped to enter the workforce.
  • Engagement with industry leaders and opportunities for internships that enhance job readiness and real-world application of skills.

In conclusion, the MA in Design program at San Francisco State University is an exceptional choice for students seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in the realm of design. With its robust curriculum, expert faculty, extensive research opportunities, and strong industry connections, students are well-prepared to make a significant impact in their careers. Embrace the opportunity to be part of this innovative program and unlock your potential in the ever-evolving field of design.

intake

Duration

24 Months

Ranking

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#234

US World and News Report

Class Profile

Diversity

United States:

35%

International:

10%

Others:

25%

California:

40%

Eligibility Criteria

English Proficiency Tests

  • IELTS

    6.5

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  • PTE

    59

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  • TOEFL

    80

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Application Requirements

Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

intake

Application Fee: 70

      Application Deadlines

      Fees and Funding

      intake

      Tuition Fees

      $16,275 / year

      FAQs

      • To apply for the MA in Design program at San Francisco State University, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

        • Hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
        • Submit a strong portfolio showcasing their design work.
        • For non-native English speakers, demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized test scores from IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.

        Additionally, there is a non-refundable application fee of $70. It is recommended that students apply early to secure their place in this competitive program.

      • The MA in Design program features a thoughtfully curated curriculum that includes a mix of core and elective courses. Core courses include:

        • Design Theory
        • Visual Communication
        • Design Research Methods

        In addition to these foundational subjects, students can choose from various electives that cover specific areas such as:

        • Digital Design
        • Product Development
        • Sustainable Design Practices

        This structure allows students to tailor their education according to their personal interests and career aspirations.

      • The MA in Design program at San Francisco State University employs innovative teaching methods that emphasize both theory and practice. Faculty members, who are accomplished professionals and experienced academics, engage students through:

        • Hands-on projects that enhance practical skills.
        • Collaborative learning environments that encourage mentorship and personalized attention.
        • Research opportunities that allow students to participate in groundbreaking initiatives.

        This combination of methods ensures that students receive a well-rounded education and are prepared for real-world challenges in the design field.

      • Graduates of the MA in Design program have diverse and promising career pathways. Alumni have successfully secured positions in various sectors, including:

        • Graphic Design
        • Product Design
        • UX/UI Design
        • Branding

        The program’s emphasis on practical skills and industry connections equips students to thrive in their chosen professions. Furthermore, the university offers robust career services, including resume workshops, job placement assistance, and exclusive job fairs, to enhance graduates' employment prospects.

      • The MA in Design program at San Francisco State University stands out due to several unique features:

        • A diverse and inclusive environment that fosters cultural exchange and collaboration among students from various backgrounds.
        • Access to high-end labs and facilities that facilitate innovative research and hands-on project experiences.
        • Engagement with industry leaders through collaborations on real-world projects, which enhance job readiness and provide networking opportunities.
        • Robust alumni network that supports current students and shares insights from their professional journeys.

        These features create a rich educational experience and prepare students to make a significant impact in the design field.

      • The MA in Design program offers abundant research opportunities by providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Key aspects of the program include:

        • High-end labs equipped with the latest technologies for experimentation and innovation.
        • Collaboration with local industry partners on real-world projects that enhance academic experience.
        • Potential for students to participate in groundbreaking research initiatives alongside faculty members.

        These opportunities not only enrich students' learning but also help them build professional connections essential for their careers.

      • San Francisco State University offers comprehensive support for career development through its robust career services. Students can benefit from:

        • Resume workshops to help craft professional applications.
        • Job placement assistance that connects students with potential employers.
        • Access to exclusive job fairs, enhancing opportunities to network with industry leaders.

        This support system is designed to equip students with the tools they need to successfully enter the workforce after graduation.

      • Students in the MA in Design program have numerous opportunities to engage with faculty members who are leaders in their fields. These opportunities include:

        • Participation in research projects where students can become research assistants.
        • Access to personalized mentorship that fosters academic growth.
        • Collaborative learning experiences that encourage interaction and idea-sharing.

        This engagement enhances students' educational experience and helps them develop valuable skills and insights from experienced professionals.

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