Master of Fine Arts in Industrial Design Rochester Institute of Technology

In this industrial design master's degree, you'll explore design theory, design history, and human-centered design as you create a range of dynamic, exciting consumer products.

Form, function, and experience tell a story of considered design and the best possible outcome. The industrial design master's will enhance your career success by further developing your knowledge in design process and technology. This project-based program allows you to explore design theory, design history, and human-centered design. You will conduct unique research on various topics of interest, which will further your understanding of the industry and society. As you conclude your studies, you will obtain hands-on experience on technical competence, analytical thought, sustainability, and transdisciplinary collaboration, all key to fueling your career.

The MFA in industrial design is for career enhancement or redirection. The educational experience is project-oriented, requiring research into design methods and technologies. Cross-disciplinary collaboratives provide an experiential dimension.

The first year of study includes seminar courses in design history and research, which are common to all graduate students in the School of Design. In addition, studio courses involve extensive design work with respect to sustainability, design process, the meaning of artifacts, and critical analysis. Additional course work using three-dimensional software for modeling and fabrication fills out the program.

In the second year students conduct research and develop a thesis project, which is presented in a graduate thesis exhibition or presentation, and is documented in a written thesis report.