The MID degree is a six-semester, 60-credit program for all students, regardless of previous background, to promote collegiality and cohesion in each incoming group of graduate students. This cohesion is essential to a pro­gram that creates a learning environment where “learning from one another” and teamwork happen, and where the richness of the program is enhanced by a strong sense of community.

While our MID program is a generalist, humanist scheme designed to support the varying skills and interests of the students, we recognize that professors and students alike need to be able to share and articulate the structure and content of the program. Therefore, we have clearly designated three years of study as: first year “Core” (design thinking, ideation, process, skills), second year “Research” (methodology, topics, sources, electives, pre-thesis), and third year “Thesis” (major individual project). Students can take specialized studios that respond to their individual interests and pursuits. The entire curriculum is designed to offer all students the professional knowledge and skills in historical, societal, and global contexts that are necessary for becoming successful design professionals.

The thesis provides the greatest possible freedom and opportunity for pursuit of a selected topic and is done under the direction of the faculty. Candidates are expected to demonstrate the full range of design skills and methodology in their thesis projects. Subjects range from consumer products and packaging to furniture and experiential design to the impact of emerging philosophies, materials, and technologies. Students register for 6 credits of thesis over one year, which culminates in a formal presentation to invited jurors followed by a presentation of the work at the annual design show, a public event attended by industry leaders and potential employers.