Design
The Design Master of Arts program at Cornell University offers a comprehensive academic environment for students who want to explore creative practice, visual communication, and design thinking through an interdisciplinary lens. The curriculum integrates conceptual development with technical skill building, allowing learners to work across diverse design fields while strengthening their ability to create meaningful and visually engaging solutions. With a strong emphasis on creative methodology, the program encourages students to investigate how design influences human experience, shapes cultural communication, and responds to contemporary social and technological challenges. Studio based learning, research engagement, and critical analysis provide a foundation that prepares learners for advanced design practice.
Throughout this two year program, students work closely with faculty who specialize in design research, visual innovation, material experimentation, and user centered approaches. The learning experience supports the development of both conceptual depth and practical capability, enabling students to refine their personal design identity while engaging with collaborative projects that simulate real world design environments. With opportunities to explore topics such as immersive media, sustainable design, information visualization, and material exploration, students gain strong proficiency in design systems, creative strategy, and analytical thinking. This combination of research, experimentation, and applied design helps graduates build a portfolio that reflects both technical skill and forward thinking creativity.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Design
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2025
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Design
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Foundations of Design Theory
• Visual Communication and Representation
• Creative Methods and Studio Practice
• Elective in Design or Media Studies
Semester 2
• Design Research Practices
• Interaction and Experience Design
• Materials, Form, and Spatial Exploration
• Studio Project in Applied Design
Semester 3
• Advanced Design Studio
• Critical Perspectives in Design
• Digital Fabrication and Emerging Technologies
• Elective in Innovation or Visual Studies
Semester 4
• Thesis Development Seminar
• Final Design Studio
• Professional Practice in Creative Industries
• Elective in Advanced Design Strategies
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program build careers in a wide range of creative and professional environments, often working within design studios, creative agencies, digital media companies, and innovation focused organizations. The program’s strong integration of conceptual development and technical skill prepares them for roles in communication design, interactive design, branding, experience design, visual strategy, and creative research. Equipped with advanced design thinking abilities, students contribute to complex creative projects, develop visual solutions aligned with user needs, and collaborate across interdisciplinary teams. This preparation provides a pathway to leadership roles in design driven industries where critical thinking and aesthetic understanding are essential.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking an academically rich and creatively stimulating design education, offering opportunities to develop advanced design capability and strong conceptual thinking supported by Cornell’s research oriented environment. Through studio based learning, collaborative projects, and exploration of emerging design technologies, students gain the ability to approach design challenges with depth, originality, and analytical awareness. The program’s structure encourages experimentation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional readiness, making it a strong choice for individuals who want to shape contemporary design practice and build a meaningful presence in creative industries.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
