mfa graphic design thesis topics

Thesis Helpers

Find the best tips and advice to improve your writing. Or, have a top expert write your paper.

110 Fantastic Graphic Design Thesis Ideas To Succeed

Graphic Design is an art where professionals plan and practice creating visual and textual content to deliver messages. In today’s world, it’s the most innovative and most effective way for businesses to connect with their consumers.

Graphic design has many forms, from a simple business logo to a complex page layout on a website. The magazine covers, posters, logos, business cards, websites, and mobile apps are only a few examples of what graphic design businesses can deliver as their concept to their clients and audience. A good graphic designer should know how to attract people by displaying innovative and appealing content. Hence, it’s crucial to master the ways to express ideas creatively.

Why Is Graphic Design Thesis Important for Students?

Creating an excellent thesis using some unique and intricate graphic design research topics is essential to have a successful career in this field. Also, it’s crucial to do graphic design research to wow potential employers for good prospects. The thesis paper is the gist of what you have learned for your bachelor’s degree in university life; therefore, it’s vital to showcase creative thinking and impressive skills. There are tons of thesis ideas for graphic design that allow the students to be creative and show their full potential. To help you ace your graphic design research paper, we will be discussing every step of creating the thesis in detail.

Creating A Winning Thesis Proposal for Graphic Design

For the best graphic designing thesis project, students should have strong writing skills and complete knowledge of visual design principles. Moreover, students should know the advanced application of the skills they have learned. Furthermore, choosing the topic according to your grade in school, college or university is essential. Senior students can choose a thesis topic from the several graphic design senior thesis topics available online. Sometimes people attend workshops to learn the art of creating an impressive graphic design research paper. We have simplified the thesis writing process for students who are not keen to participate in workshops. People who have some knowledge may also benefit from the blog as it provides simple tips that you can follow to get started. Here are some things to keep in mind when preparing and writing you graphic design dissertation:

• Have a catchy introduction. A perfect intro will create a good impression and would encourage the reader to read on. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a passionate topic as anything written with heart can easily catch the reader’s attention. Unleash your artistic side to express yourself eloquently. It’s better to start with a short introduction. Keep it brief so that you can capture the reader’s attention.
• Create a strong problem Statement. Knowing the background of the problem or the topic you are dealing with allows you to create a convincing problem statement. In this part of the thesis, you will highlight your research question around the cause of your research. You should write a page-long description of evaluating various options and choose the most suitable one. This part of the graphic design research doesn’t have to be elaborate.
• Include an Aim and Objectives of the Study section. Use this part of the thesis to provide reasons why the chosen topic is significant. Let the reader know about your intent behind the research. These are the outcomes that you hope to achieve from your project. Also, use this part of the graphic design writing to display the objectives behind your research. The reader should have all the answers to why you want to address the highlighted graphic design issues.
• Describe the method you use. In this section of your thesis, describe the methodology you will use to attain your goal. You should highlight all the methods available, compare them and select the most viable option. You can add details about the software, print media, or any other media platform you have used to complete your graphic design writing.
• Prepare a literature review. Creating a literature review is an integral part of the project as it contains details of the type of research you carried out and how you conducted them. Also, it provides a theoretical framework for your dissertation, giving the reader an insight into where you started, the ideas you chose, and where the concepts have brought you.
• Highlight the key ideas, scope, and limitations of the study. Coming towards the end of your research, you should specify the critical objectives attained from the project. Also, the project’s scope should identify the advanced uses and the limitation of the concept discussed in the thesis. Keep your content original and take as much thesis help you need from the sources available for an outstanding dissertation.

Graphic Design Thesis Topics

According to your interest, there are many topics you can look for on the internet for your graphic design thesis topic. We have researched to compile the 110 most interesting graphic design research paper topics; you are sure to find the best one for your thesis. From environment enthusiast to an art school student, our diverse topics will help you find the best topic for your thesis.

Best Graphic Design Thesis Topics

• Uses Of Graphic Design To Create Environmental Awareness
• Current And Future Trends In The Commonly Used Software For Graphic Designs
• Design And Culture Expectations
• Enhancing Understanding Through Visual Imaging
• The New Graphic And Media Designs
• The Fall Of Desktop Publishing
• Development Of Web Animation.How The Internet Shaped Animation Content
• The Evolution Of Newspaper Ads In The Technological Era
• Role Of Personality In Arts
• Set Creation In The Film Industry Using Graphic Design
• Theme Design For Restaurants
• Elements Of Persuasion And Graphic Design
• Commercial Design: Dealing With The Clients To Facilitate Feedback
• Organisationational Branding And Websites.
• Role Of Visual Hierarchy To Create Customer Perception Of E-Commerce Stores
• Art Directors: Transformational Heads
• How Graphic Designs Are Used In The Making Of Directories
• Role Of Graphic Design In The Evolution Of Modern Cinema
• Creating A Colorful Classroom
• Typeset: Principles And Techniques
• How Color Theory Effects Graphic Design
• How To Smartly Use Space In Design Esthetics
• Effect Of Organizational Branding And Logos On Sales
• Use Of Graphic Design For Social Commentary And Street Art
• Use Of Graphic Design For Movie Festival Promotion
• Newspaper Ads And Graphic Design. How They Mold Consumer Buying Behavior
• Graphic Designing Tools And How The Industry They Have Impacted The Industry
• How Does Color Psychology Trigger Emotions? A Case Study On Baker-Miller Pink

Top Graphic Design Thesis Ideas

• A Case Study On Renowned Graphic Designers Of The Time
• Influence Of Tv On Graphic Design
• Role Of Computers In The Evolution Of Graphic Design
• How Graphic Design Is Used In Game Interfaces To Attract Consumers
• Importance Of Balance In Creating Impressive Visuals. A Graphic Design Basic
• Conventional Designing Software Vs. Online Graphic Designing Tools. Which Is More Convenient?
• How Does Visual Heuristics Help In Segmenting The Viewer’s Attention?
• Use Of Graphic Design For Political Satire
• How Brands Use Negative Spacing To Affect The Subconscious Minds Of Consumers
• Role Of Web Graphics In Creating Visitor’s Trust
• Defining Consumer Perceptions To Web Designs
• Theories Of Graphic Design. Application And Importance In The Design Industry
• Human Psychological Connections And Color Selection
• How Online Gaming Trends Have Changed
• Impact Of Theory Of Repetition On Consumer Buying Behavior
• Multimedia Design And How It Has Changed The World Around Us
• Importance Of Graphic Design To Generate Sales For Online Service Providers
• Evolution Of Digital Art Over The Years
• Graphic Design In The 20th Century
• Advertisement And The Subliminal Messages
• Use Of Powerpoint Presentations To Create Amazing Designs
• Graphic Design Trends In The 21st Century

Excellent Thesis Ideas for Graphic Design

• Propaganda Posters: Political Messages
• How Email Marketing Has Changed
• Development Of Career Paths In Graphic Design
• Essentials Of Business Branding
• How Graphic Design Revolutionized Product Packaging
• Redesigning A Book Cover
• Growth Of Graphic Design Over The Years
• Evolution Of Vehicle Wraps Using Graphic Design
• Cost-Benefit Analysis Of Investing In A Graphic Designer
• Analyzing The Role Of Colors In Graphic Design
• Trade Show Displays And Signage To Create Attention
• Analyzing Various Techniques Used By Graphic Designers
• Use Of Graphic Design To Create Infographics
• Exploring How Service Design Impacts Visual Information
• Studying The Application Of Graphic Design In Advanced Technology
• How Does The Use Of Warm Colors Help Viewers Connect With Your Facebook Posts
• A Case Study On Consumer Psychology-Difference Between Warm And Cool Colors
• Use Of Graphic Design To Create Images For Blogs
• Use Of Artificial Intelligence In Graphic Design
• Photo Collages And Their Importance For Youngsters
• Evaluating The Value Of The Visual Design Structure

Interesting Graphic Design Research Topics

• Impact Of Artistic Sensibility In Graphic Design
• How Banners To Aid In Conveying Messages
• Analyzing Average Budget For Graphic Design Projects
• Importance Of Graphic Design Education Across Borders
• Impact Of Appealing Products On Consumer Choices
• Retargeting Ads To Reach Out To The Target Market More Efficiently
• Perspectives Of People On Visual Communication Design Education
• Learning How To Apply The Theory To The Graphic Design Course
• Analyzing The Trends In Graphic Design During The Past Decade
• Graphic Novel-A Literature Review
• Business Cards. An Essential For Businesses
• Relationship Between Pop Culture And Graphic Design
• Recognizing The Qualities Of A Professional Graphic Designer
• Using Secondary Research To Explore The Various Features Of Web Design
• Creative Coloring Books For Kids
• Outcomes And Impact Of Graphic Design On The Consumer Market For The Top Brands Of The Country
• Reinterpretation Of A Classic Book Cover
• How Does The Design Language Trigger Brand Retention In The Minds Of Customers
• Use Of Animation To Create Beautiful Postcards
• 10-Minute Projects That Will Amaze You

Graphic Design Senior Thesis Topics

• Use Of Graphic Design To Create A Plant Identifying App
• Flat Logo Designs V/S Gradient Logo Designs. A Case Study On The Automobile Industry
• Use Of Computer Graphics And Advertisement To Change Consumer Behavior
• Effect Of Contrast Colors To Drive Consumer Buying Behavior
• Passion Project: Following Your Dream
• How Businesses Use Brochures To Attract Sales
• Use Of Print Media And Advertisements To Change Consumer Buying Behavior
• Logos. Essential For A Business Image
• How Clothing Brands Use Graphic Design To Create Designs
• 20th Century Evolution Of Computer Graphics
• A Case Study On Computer Graphic Designers
• Impact Of Using Filters In Videos To Gain Customer Attention And Sales
• Use Of Psychological Triggers In Graphic Design To Create Customer Loyalty
• Effect Of Limited Financial Plan On Graphics
• Commercial Distinctiveness And Graphic Design
• A Case Study On The Top Marketing Agencies Of The Country
• A Case Study On Apple. How It Molds Consumer Buying Behavior
• How Does The Consumer Remember Your Brand? A Case Study On Louis Vuitton
• Impact Of Design To Create Sales For E-Commerce Stores

Is Your Graphic Design Thesis Due Soon?

When you start your thesis, you may encounter various graphic design issues, but keep your eyes on the master’s degree and keep working hard. You can also hire low-cost native writers for your project plan by googling “Do my research for graphic design thesis.” These professionals will provide complete research for your thesis topic, as well as high-quality content, and will also proofread your thesis when you are done. Moreover, writing professionals offer reliable services, so you don’t have to worry that your thesis idea will get stolen or hacked.

Make PhD experience your own

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

DigitalCommons@RISD

Home > Graphic Design > Graphic Design Masters Theses

Graphic Design Masters Theses

RISD’s graduate program in Graphic Design prepares students for professional practice by emphasizing the roles of social context, media and aesthetics in the production of visible language systems. As a reflection of the discipline itself, the program encourages a nimble and intelligent response to constant change and burgeoning technology, while building a strong foundation of formal, aesthetic and analytical knowledge.

Individual thesis investigation is central to the final year of MFA study and culminates in the comprehensive presentation of work representing an original voice for visual and verbal expression of design thinking. The thesis should be equal parts exploration, explanation, provocation and contribution. Guest critics participate throughout the year and in the year-end thesis review, which offers a forum for critical dialogue focused on each student’s contribution to the field of graphic design. All MFA candidates also submit a written thesis and as a group participate in the RISD Graduate Thesis Exhibition , a large-scale public show held annually.

These works are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License .

Theses from 2023 2023

Making Then Meaning , Ben Denzer

Form Follows Feeling Follows Form , Harshal Duddalwar

Making time: Gentle invitations for radical slowness , Lian Fumerton-Liu

Superbland , Dougal Henken

Crossover Logics , Serena Ho

Connective Movements , Ian Keliher

Invisible Systems , Mina Kim

Press Play , Karan Kumar

Searching for New Landscapes , Halim Lee

Moving at the Speed of Trust , Sun Ho Lee

Access in Ambiguity , Moritz Lónyay

Infinitely Incredible Configurations , Jenni Oughton

Virtual Fantasy , Joey Petrillo

Surfacing: a (loose) manual on unlayering / stuff-making and hypervisibility , Zoë Pulley

OtherWorldly Gestures , Sadia Quddus

Input / Output , Zach Scheinfeld

Particular Proceedings , Ingrid Schmaedecke

Writ In Water , Jack Tufts

Theses from 2022 2022

Ports of entry , Forough Abadian

Capture, control, circulate : can we queer regulatory power in Graphic Design? , Adie Fein

Alien Encyclopedia , Zengqi Guo

Re-order the order of thing , Yingxi Sabrina Ji

Openness , Qiwen Ju

! , Nick Larson

Oral History Interview with Preston McClanahan, November 8, 2022 , Preston McClanahan, Holly Gaboriault, and RISD Archives

Connect: translating complexity through visual simplification , Ilhee Park

Other realms , Louis Rakovich

Slow ruptures; slow formations , Asta Thrastardottir

Theses from 2021 2021

Open articulations , Matthew Bejtlich

Paperwork , Romik Bose Mitra

Community, harana & karaoke: towards a theatrical design , Ryan Diaz

Personal positioning system , Laura Diez de Baldeon

Parentheses asterisk ellipses , Everett Epstein

Refiguring relations , Daphne Hsu

CTRL SHIFT , Kit Son Lee

Jettisoning the frame: strategies for designing at the threshold , Will Mianecki

Future as medium , Georgie Nolan

Elsewhere: impressions of sense & nonsense , Madeline Woods

The relativity of value , Lai Xu

Theses from 2020 2020

My millennial Asian fetishized American fantasy , Seyong Ahn

Temporal collisions , Lizzie Baur

Strata : lessons in latency , Mukul Chakravarthi

Re: Ornament , Aleks Dawson

A very large array , Hilary duPont

Oh wait, is this a loop? , Carl-Gustaf Ewerbring

Counter formation , Fabian Fohrer

Binge [Fantasy reality] , Elena Foraker

How to do things with things , Emily Guez

Skew-morphic dream , Yoonsu Kim

Ancient hyper present , Sophie Loloi

EthnoGraphemes , Vaishnavi Mahendran

U+16E99 , Bobby Joe Smith III

Something to see here , Weixi Zeng

Theses from 2019 2019

Record : from signal to atmosphere, and the spaces between silence and noise , Amy Auman

Plenty : wanting, choosing,, overwhelming unloading , Christopher Cote

Among : a series of enactments , Joel F. Kern

Let's meet over there / Eury Kim. , Eury Kim

Lateral movements : in multifaceted time and space , Jieun Kim

Making common , Elaine Lopez

Standards, rules, setting , Robert McConnell

Abjad orientations , Mohammed Nassem

Softweave , Annaka Olsen

Groundwork , Marcus Peabody

Body of work , Oliva de Salve Villedieu

Cosmosis , Angela Torchio

Re-creation : a package design for daily life , Wei-Hao Wang

Interface philosophy , June Yoon

Theses from 2018 2018

This is public work , Nick Adam

Haunt : casual surrealism , Cara Buzzell

Placefulness , Ellen Christensen

Anachropomorphism! , Carson Evans

Lingua Franca , Tatiana Gomez Gaggero

Field guide : collected studies of a symbiont , Jennifer Livermore

Tiny Diasporas , Angela Lorenzo

Reading rooms , Jinhwa Oh

Space, Junk , Brandon Olsen

Hyperlink : connecting space, time, language, and technology , Marie Otsuka

Constellations , Maria Rull Bescós

Squishy Play , Lauren Traugott-Campbell

Monument for feeling : Notes from the Archivist , Melissa Weiss

Theses from 2017 2017

Otra vez : hierarchy as designer , Jordyn Alvidrez

Double takes : secular magic & empathic vision , Lake Buckley

Playgrounds , Cem Eskinazi

Content-aware : investigating tools, character & user behavior , Llewellyn Hensley

Space as a practiced place , Elizabeth Leeper

Frame-work , Drew Litowitz

Scripting allographs , June Shin

Our measured world : a poetic translation , Minryung Son

Identity production , Boyang Xia

Design syncopations , Mary Yang

Theses from 2016 2016

Hyphen nation: a reconciliation , Lynn Amhaz

Rapid response , James Chae

Continuum of significance , Diane Lee

Live edges: all possible adjacencies , Rebecca Leffell Koren

Practice makes practice , Gabriel Melcher

Dimensional flatland: Beamer, drone, flash drive , Scarlett Xin Meng

Traversing languagescapes , Desmond Pang

Theses from 2015 2015

Multiple influences: from witnessing language to performing it , Viviane Jalil

Speculative politics -fictionalized spectacle , Prin Limphongpand

Theses from 2014 2014

Speculative archives : an index , Sameer Farooq

• All Collections
• Departments
• Online Exhibitions
• Masters Theses
• Disciplines

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS

Contributor Info

• Contributor FAQ
• RISD Graphic Design MFA

Permissions

• Terms of Use

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

• Skip To Main Content
• Report an Accessibility Barrier
• Accessibility

The MFA Thesis Year

Important deadlines.

The last day to submit a thesis should be 10 business days prior to the last day of final exams. The thesis uploaded to Vireo must be the final version approved by your thesis/dissertation student advisory committee. These are the Thesis Submission Deadlines:

Summer 2023: July 14, 2023 Fall 2023: November 21, 2023 Spring 2024: April 12, 2024

The Graduate School’s Guide for Theses and Dissertations  

MFA Thesis Exhibition

The MFA thesis exhibition is a demonstration of your professional competency in visual arts and design. It serves as proof of artistic or design mastery through the creation of a body of work that builds on, contributes to, or extends knowledge in your concentration area. During your thesis exhibition, you will present your body of work through a final defense with your committee to demonstrate your mastery of art and design knowledge.

MFA Thesis Document

The MFA degree requires the completion of a written thesis in support of your thesis exhibition. The written thesis must comply with SoAD and Graduate School requirements . The Manual of Basic Requirements for Theses and Dissertations is available on the Graduate School’s Web site to guide your work. The written thesis supports, and cannot supplant, the thesis exhibition.

The thesis is a written document that logically presents your thesis exhibition and artwork, frames your work within historical and contemporary contexts, cites relevant historical and contemporary influences on your work, and explains how your thesis exhibition work adds to or improves knowledge in your discipline. Your writing will discuss appropriate aspects of your work such as stylistic, conceptual, technical, ideological, etc.

Your written thesis must document the history (conceptual, technical, ideological, etc.) of your concentration area relevant to your thesis topic and/or work. You must thoroughly document the background and context of your topic, including specific historical and contemporary examples of artists or designers and specific pieces that relate to or inform your work.

Your writing must discuss the contextual relevance of your thesis exhibition and how it builds on the standards, philosophies, techniques, professional practices, and knowledge of your discipline. You will explore this within a historical framework related to your work.

In addition to sources cited throughout your thesis document, your bibliography should include references to historical and contemporary sources related to your work. These sources should provide a thorough resource for anyone interested in understanding and investigating your topic.

Consult with your Thesis Director to determine an appropriate writing style should. MLA is the most common style used for the MFA thesis but is not required.  

Thesis Forms

There are three forms to be completed via DocuSign PowerForms for the Thesis process. Click on the buttons below to initiate the PowerForm process.

• Master’s Pre-Thesis Research Approval Form Instructions Required signatures: Initiator (student), Thesis Committee Chairperson, Members, Graduate Programs Coordinator (Seo Eo)
• ECU Non-Exclusive Distribution License Instructions Required signatures: Initiator (student), Thesis Committee Chairperson
• Thesis Signature Page Instructions Required signatures: Initiator (student), Thesis Committee Chairperson, Members, and Unit/Dept Chair (SoAD Director Kate Bukoski)

Intent to Exhibit Form

You must complete the Intent to Exhibit form two semesters before your exhibition. Click on the below button appropriate for your venue to initiate the PowerForm process.

• Wellington B. Gray Gallery – adheres to the SoAD schedule for MFA per ECU Graduate Thesis calendar Required signatures: Initiator (student), Area Coordinator, Thesis Committee Chairperson, SoAD Director (Kate Bukoski), Gallery Representative (Maria Modlin, Curatorial Technician), Graduate Programs Coordinator (Seo Eo)
• Burroughs Wellcome Senior Gallery – adheres to the ECU Graduate Thesis calendar Required signatures: Initiator (student), Area Coordinator, Thesis Committee Chairperson, SoAD Director (Kate Bukoski), Gallery Representative (Mary Elliott, Administrative Support Specialist), Graduate Programs Coordinator (Seo Eo)
• Non-SoAD Venue – adheres to the ECU Graduate Thesis calendar Required signatures: Initiator (student), Area Coordinator, Thesis Committee Chairperson, SoAD Director (Kate Bukoski), Venue Representative, Graduate Programs Coordinator (Seo Eo)

MFA Thesis Procedures

To progress toward your thesis, you must pass your Second Year Review and receive approval from your area faculty.

Select Your Thesis Director Once approved, you will select your Thesis Committee Chairperson (Thesis Director) who will direct your thesis process. Your thesis topic must be within your Director’s area of expertise. Your Thesis Director must have graduate faculty status and be in your concentration area.

To change your Thesis Director, you must discuss this with the Graduate Programs Director, who will discuss the issue with you and your current Thesis Director. If not resolved then, the matter will be brought before the School of Art and Design Graduate Committee.

Select Your Thesis Committee You will select a thesis committee in consultation with your Thesis Director. The thesis committee is composed of your Thesis Director (from your concentration area),  two other graduate faculty from the School of Art and Design, and one faculty member who may be from outside the School. All committee members, except members outside the School, must hold either Graduate or Associate Graduate faculty status. Any changes in your thesis committee must be approved by you and your Thesis Director.

Write Your Thesis Prospectus After you select a thesis topic and it has been approved by your Director, you will write a thesis prospectus. The prospectus contains at least three parts:

• A statement of the purpose of your work, the methods you intend to use, and the scope of your topic
• An outline showing the organization of your written thesis
• A preliminary bibliography about your topic

You submit the thesis prospectus to your committee and then schedule a meeting to discuss your thesis topic and your prospectus. Ensure that you allow your committee adequate time to read your prospectus before your meeting.

• If your thesis prospectus involves research with human participants must submit, you must include a description how the manner in which human participants will be engaged in the research. Depending on the scope of your thesis research, you may need to submit your research to ECU’s University and Medical Center Institutional Review Board (UMCIRB) for approval. Learn more about the UMCIRB .

Finalize Your Thesis Title After completing your prospectus, you will work with your committee to determine a thesis title. Your Thesis Director will approve your final title.

Submit your Thesis Research Approval Form The student will submit a Thesis Research Approval Form (Word) signed by your thesis committee members to the Graduate Programs Director, Seo Eo. The Graduate Programs Director will then create a section of ART 7000 Thesis for you.

Schedule Committee Meetings It is your responsibility to schedule thesis committee meetings in consultation with your Thesis Director. Only your Thesis Director can endorse a thesis committee meeting. Remember that faculty have busy schedules, and you should plan your meetings early to facilitate the scheduling process. You must prepare and deliver writing at least one week prior to the meeting to allow your committee adequate time to read, review, and provide feedback on your writing.

We recommend that you work on your thesis exhibition and thesis document in tandem, developing the two works side-by-side. This alleviates the pressure to write intensively after you have installed your thesis exhibition.

Plan your Thesis Exhibition & Schedule the Oral Defense of your Thesis Exhibition In collaboration with your Thesis Director and Committee, you will plan your thesis exhibition. The Wellington B. Gray Gallery is available for MFA thesis exhibitions during both the fall and spring semesters. You will receive instructions and information regarding scheduling installations, the limitations of the space, the reception date, PR materials, and more from the Graduate Programs Director.

As you plan your exhibition, you will consult with your Thesis Director and Committee to schedule the oral defense of your Thesis Exhibition. When scheduling the defense, keep in mind that faculty schedules are busy. After your date is scheduled, you must notify the Director of the Graduate Programs of the date, time, and location for your thesis exhibition oral defense.

Install Your Thesis Exhibition After you complete your thesis document, you must schedule an oral defense date in consultation with your Thesis Director and Committee. When scheduling the defense, keep in mind that faculty schedules are busy, and if you are completing your thesis during the summer many faculty travels or are out of town. After your date is scheduled, you must notify the Director of the Graduate Programs of the date, time, and location for your oral defense.

Defend Your Thesis Exhibition During your thesis exhibition defense, your Director and Committee will evaluate your thesis body of work, understanding of your discipline, and your thesis exhibition. The defense is intended to provide you with feedback about your work as well as assess your knowledge.

STEP ELEVEN

Finalize Your Thesis Document Working with your Director and Committee, you will finish writing and finalize your written document. Remember that the Writing Center provides excellent support for writing and can help you with the writing style (e.g. bibliography and citations), editing, and more.

STEP TWELVE

Schedule and Complete the Oral Defense of Your Thesis Document After you complete your thesis document, you must schedule an oral defense date in consultation with your Thesis Director and Committee. When scheduling the defense, keep in mind that faculty schedules are busy, and if you are completing your thesis during the summer many faculty travels or are out of town. After your date is scheduled, you must notify the Director of the Graduate Programs of the date, time, and location for your oral defense.

After you successfully defend your written thesis, your Thesis Director notifies the Director of Graduate Programs that you have passed this milestone and completes the Oral Defense Form.

STEP THIRTEEN

Submit Your Finished Thesis Document to the Director The Director of the School of Art and Design must sign your thesis form. Please give the Director a minimum of one week to read and review your document before signing.

Review ECU’s Guidelines for Preparing Thesis Documents and Electronic Documents

STEP FOURTEEN

Get Signatures for Your Written Thesis Your Director, Committee Members, and the Director of the School of Art and Design must all sign your thesis form. Ensure that you have enough time to get all signatures before the deadline.

STEP FIFTEEN

Upload Your Final Thesis Your final step is to upload your final thesis document, including the signature page, to ECU’s VIREO.

Thesis Upload Instructions

Finally, graduate!

Get all the details on graduation .

• Take a Tour
• Open Search
• Bachelor of Fine Arts
• Combined Degree (BFA + BA/BS)
• Areas of Study
• Undergraduate Courses
• Creative Futures: Career Stories
• Undergraduate Student Work
• Master of Fine Arts
• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Studio Art
• Master of Arts in Teaching
• Graduate Courses
• Graduate Student Work
• Individual Courses and Workshops
• Certificate in Graphic Design
• Certificate in Illustration
• Certificate in Virtual Reality
• Pre-College Graphic Design Bootcamp
• Pre-College Intensive in Studio Art
• First-year Students
• Graduate Students
• Transfer Students
• International Students
• Portfolio Reviews & Submission Requirements
• Aid & Tuition
• Visit & Connect
• Studio Resources
• Mentorship & Advising
• Career Center
• Exhibition Opportunities
• Artist Talks and Visits
• Residencies, Fellowships, Awards & Grants
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice
• Sustainability
• Housing & Dining
• Health & Wellness
• Getting Around
• Activities & Organizations
• Tufts University Art Galleries
• Commencement
• Mission, Vision, and Values
• Our History
• Our Location
• Dean & Leadership Team
• Student Announcements
• News & Stories
• Community Programming

MFA Thesis & Exhibition

The MFA graduate program culminates with an MFA thesis exhibition from each student. This is an opportunity to apply theory and method in a project, formulating a question and developing a potential answer. You'll explore the broader implications of your practice through aesthetic, social, political, economic, and scientific considerations. At SMFA, a thesis is never a definite conclusion, but a moment within the student's artistic development that demonstrates the ability to continue work outside the confines of the institution.

In addition to the exhibition itself, the thesis contains a written component and a final defense with a three-member thesis committee, which includes faculty and a visiting juror. The student's 1000-word thesis statement serves as a clear and coherent textual narrative of their process, research, and intention within their artistic practice. The thesis statement is intended to be developed and revised throughout the course of the thesis year.

The Thesis Committee is comprised of two graduate faculty advisors (the student's primary graduate studio advisor and a second graduate studio advisor) and is established in the fall semester of the student's second year. Of critical importance is the third member of the committee, who must be an arts or field-specific professional from outside SMFA at Tufts.

Past committee external reviewers: Makeda Best, Harvard Art Museums, 2019 Ellen Tani, Institute of Contemporary Art, 2019 Daisy Nam, Carpenter Center for Visual Arts, Harvard University, 2019 Sam Toabe, University of Massachusetts, Boston Art Galleries, 2019

The final thesis review with the student's committee takes place during the final Thesis Exhibition. Graduate Advisors serving on the student's Thesis Committee have the responsibility of extending or withholding credit for the exhibition. They award a grade of Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory, and each committee member provides a written evaluation.

The final exhibition propels graduates into the contemporary art community and launches their professional career as artists. Credit for the exhibition is awarded by the SMFA at Tufts Thesis Committee, which is comprised of the student's academic advisor, a member of the graduate studio faculty, and an external advisor. Please note that participation in the final MFA exhibition can only take place once an MFA candidate has met all graduation requirements.

Past MFA Thesis Exhibitions

2022 mfa thesis exhibition: forever in ten days.

Forever in Ten Days features the work of 13 graduating master of fine arts students from the School of The Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts.

Learn More about the 2022 exhibition

2022 MFA Thesis Exhibition: You're on Mute

You're on Mute features the work of 12 graduating master of fine arts students from the School of The Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts.

2021 MFA Thesis Exhibition:  Waiting Room

Waiting Room features the work of eight MFA students.

Learn more about the 2021 exhibition

2020 MFA Thesis Exhibition: As Above, So Below

As Above So Below presents the work of 17 MFA candidates who completed their thesis work in the midst of the COVID-19 2020 global pandemic.

Learn More about the 2020 exhibition

2019 MFA Thesis Exhibition:  no time for laundry

The phrase “no time for laundry” humorously sums up the singular focus of an MFA Thesis student’s life. School, art and political engagement swallow up daily life leaving little time for much else.

Learn more about the 2019 exhibition

2018 MFA Thesis Exhibition:  (T)HERE

(T)HERE  represents the collapse of “here” and “there” into one unified paradigm. The artists see our globalized world as both “here” and “there”; that problems of the past are the problems of today. It acknowledges that the contemporary moment synthesizes the mainstream and the periphery, theory and experience, history and future.

Learn more about the 2018 exhibition

• Library Guides
• Art, Graphic Design & Art History
• MFA thesis examples

Art, Graphic Design & Art History: MFA thesis examples

Finding mfa theses, to find mfa theses from other universities, start in proquest dissertations:.

• In the first search box, type MFA OR M.F.A .
• Then select Degree from the dropdown menu on the right.
• In the next row, type graphic design .
• Toward the bottom in the Manuscript type box, check Master's theses.
• Finally, click the Search button on the right.
• Please note: some authors have chosen to exclude images from Proquest.

Another place to search is WorldCat:

The link above will take you to the advanced search. Follow the steps below or take a look at the screenshot:

• In Subtype limits, Any Content , select Thesis/dissertation .
• Click on the title of the item you want.
• Then click External Resources: Borrow from another library
• The first time you log in, you will need to register.
• Hint: Worldcat will fill in the request form for you. See a blank request form? Go back to Worldcat and click Borrow from another library again. The form should refresh with the required info in it.
• Need more help? Watch this video, or ask a librarian:

• Interlibrary Services

MFA Graphic Design theses online

• Iowa State University
• Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
• Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

• Last Updated: Mar 8, 2024 1:31 PM
• URL: https://info.library.okstate.edu/art-graphic-design-and-art-history

• Staff Directory
• Library Policies
• Hours & Location
• Borrowing Privileges
• Suggest New Materials
• Browse Collections
• Course Reserves
• Online Resources
• Digital Images
• Master's Thesis Projects
• Ask A Librarian
• Research Tutorials
• Research Guides
• MLA Citation Guide
• Information Literacy Session Request
• Materials Library Tour Request
• Digital Image Workshop
• Document Digitization Form
• LUNA Information
• New Materials Request
• New Magazine Request
• Course Reserve Request
• Online Education Request
• Textbooks for Instructors
• Basic Search
• Advanced Search
• Annual Collections
• New Materials
• Special Collections

Online Thesis Projects

AAU began digitizing all master's thesis projects in 2012. The Graduate School also has a selection of thesis projects available online.

You must have a current AAU username and password in order to view these projects.

• Advertising
• Animation 2D
• Animation 3D
• Animation Visual Effects
• Architecture
• Art Education
• Art History
• Fashion Art Direction
• Fashion Design
• Fashion Journalism
• Fashion Knitwear
• Fashion Merchandising
• Fashion Textiles
• Fine Art: Painting
• Fine Art: Printmaking
• Fine Art: Sculpture
• Game Development
• Graphic Design
• Illustration
• Industrial Design
• Interior Architecture and Design
• Jewelry and Metal Arts
• Landscape Architecture
• Motion Pictures and Television
• Communications & Media Technologies (Formerly Multimedia Communications)
• Music for Visual Media
• Photography
• Visual Development
• Web Design and New Media

BFA Senior Thesis Capstone, Student Projects

Creative Fields

Graphic Design

Attribution, Non-commercial, No Derivatives

MICA Graduate Theses Collection

• Getting Started
• Art Education
• Community Arts
• Critical Studies
• Digital Art
• Curatorial Practice
• Fine Art Post-Baccalaureate
• Graphic Design
• Illustration Practice
• Mount Royal
• Photography
• Social Design
• Studio Art (Low-Residency MFA)
• Other Programs

How To Submit Your Thesis Documentation

Decker Library is the official repository for graduate theses created by students of MICA's graduate and post-baccalaureate programs.

If you're a student ready to submit your PDF/A, please visit Decker Library's Graduate Theses page for everything you need to complete the process.

• Creating a PDF/A File
• Archive-Friendly Files
• Thesis Submission Requirements by Program
• Personal Digital Archiving: How to Create a Digital Archive for Your Work, Thesis, & Career

MFA in Graphic Design Theses Collection

The Decker Library is a repository for documentation of Masters Theses from MICA's graduate and post-baccalaureate programs (1956-2014). Here is an inventory of the theses that we have from the areas of  ADVERTISING DESIGN AND GRAPHIC DESIGN . Included are theses from the MFA IN GRAPHIC DESIGN program (2003-2014).

A complete listing of theses in the Library collection, organized by program, is found here.  One can also search for theses in the Library catalog , using the Special Collections limiter in the search parameters.

Thesis documentation for 1956-2014 can be viewed by appointment within the Decker Library. Contact [email protected] or telephone 410-225-2714 to arrange.

MICA Digital Library Complete graduate theses from 2015 to present are available for viewing online in the MICA Digital Library . Theses that are "unrestricted" are available to view from any location. Those that are "restricted" can only be viewed from the MICA campus.

- See all online theses from the MFA in Graphic Design program , the Post-Baccalaureate Graphic Design program, and the MA in Graphic Design program .

ADVERTISING DESIGN

1961 Brink, Harrison Steck

GRAPHIC DESIGN

1971 Feldman, Penney | Volpitta, Francis M.

MFA IN GRAPHIC DESIGN

2004 Cheng, Judy | Kebaili, Nadra S. | Mussano, Dina | Plikaitis, Kara Beth 2005 Brooks, Michelle Helen | Jackson, Christopher Wesley | Malinow, Joshua Benjamin | Moore, George | Rodriguez, Jessica Pilar | Rogic, Zvezdana | Spilman, Kristen | Weikert, Michael 2006 Bost, Kimberly D. | Diepold, Katherine Cornelius | Faden, Alissa Rose | Froehlich, Nancy | Harrison, Allen E. | Holman, James S. | Palmer, Adam R. | Semeco-Rojas, Veronica | Woldemichael, Ida 2007 Ahn, Yeohyun | Botts, Jeremy | Gladhill, William Ryan | Lewis, Robert | Jordahl, Sarah Joy | Lee, Yongseuk | Menon, Visakh M. | Okutake, Jason 2008 Bentley, Kimberly Ann | Cordova, Viviana Carla | Corrigan, John Page | Lim, Hyun Soo | May, Gregory Robert | McIntyre, Kelley Lynn | Osmanof, April | Tuo, Yue 2009 Armstrong, Helen | Bjornard, Kristian | Clifford, Ryan | Danielle, Davis | Galbreath, Joe | Ha, Joo | Lewis-Archibald, Giselle | Muir, Lindsey M. | Venne, Anthony 2010 Hawthorne, Molly | Kropp, Justin | Sasser, Virginia | Shea, Andrew | Walser, Aaron | White-Torres, Jennifer 2011 Adams, Lauren | Clark, Chris | Herrmann, Elizabeth | Liu, Ann | McCampbell, Chris | Shelley, Ryan | Taylor, Elizabeth | Xenakis, Krissi

2012 Mortensen, Eric | Rotberg, Michal | Seltzer, Aura | Toppins, Aggie | Zotter, Cameron

2013 Alesina, Inna | Compton, YoungSun | Dlugash, Nicki | Gottlieb, Jason | Lopez, Javier | Ludwig, Luiz | Pelsoh, Brian | Qian, Li | Robertson, Sarah | Sayo, Julie | Towell, Kelcey

2014 Blake, Richard | Carusi, Jamie | Chemelski, Benjamin | Facet, Yingxi Zhou | Hernandez, Gabriela | Lam, David | Littman, Jackie | Matherne, Kirby | McConnell, Rob | Sherwood-Forbes, Emma | Tabet, Nour | Walton, Amy Lee | Wei, Hong

• Taylor, Elizabeth - Thesis Book - .pdf file
• Taylor, Elizabeth - Thesis Video - .mov file
• << Previous: Fine Art Post-Baccalaureate
• Next: Hoffberger >>
• Last Updated: Jun 8, 2023 5:30 PM
• URL: https://libguides.mica.edu/Theses

Decker Library at the Maryland Institute College of Art | Location: 1401 W. Mount Royal Ave., Baltimore, MD 21217 | Mailing: 1300 W. Mount Royal Ave., Baltimore, MD 21217

Research Help: 410-225-2273 / [email protected] | General Questions: 410-225-2272 / [email protected]

2023 MFA Thesis Exhibition and Publication

Page through our 'MFA 2023 Thesis Exhibition Publication' online! In these pages, each MFA 2023 graduate describes their overall artistic concerns and practice. [See our series of posts about the Thesis Exhibition - one post per student on the homepage - as well!]

The Master of Fine Arts 2023 graduates at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design invite you to our Thesis Exhibition. This is the culminating exhibition by our 2023 MFA candidates who have spent the past year on their research.

MFA Candidates include:

• Lauren Nicole Alfaro Núñez
• Eric Butler
• Nick Chatfield-Taylor
• Shilun Chen
• Rosario Parker Gordon
• Kara Faye Gregory
• Lokho Kotile
• Yuanrong (Joy) Li
• Amanda Rose
• Alexis Schramel
• Abe Shriner
• emmy e smith
• Angela St. Vrain
• Ivonne Yáñez

This year, our candidates explore a vast array of ideas through a multitude of media including installation, video, illustration, interactive media, comics, photography, graphic design, social practice, sculpture, drawing, painting, scent, audio, printmaking, bookmaking, bioart, and more.

There are three locations for the thesis show this year – the MFA Gallery, and on the main MCAD campus, in Morrison Hall and in Gallery 148 in the Main building.

View thesis work from the class of 2023 starting May 6. We hope to see you soon in the galleries and for the reception on May 12!

Public visiting hours:

May 6-7, 12-4pm May 13-14, 12-4pm

Public Reception:

May 12, 6-9pm

© 2024 MCAD All Rights Reserved.

• Policies & Consumer Information

Course List

Take a look at titles and descriptions for the graphic design department's courses offered., gd 5010 graphic design ma studio 1.

In this course students investigate conceptual and process-driven visual problem solving and research methodologies. Intensive projects serve to build each designer's skills and vocabulary while gaining an understanding of how typography, images, composition, form and media enhance communication. Discussion of contemporary design issues and design history supplement the work.

GD 5020 Graphic Design MA Studio 2

In this course students research, create and exhibit a self-directed thesis project focused on a specific subject. The project supports the student’s personal and professional goals and builds a body of work consisting of multiple visual explorations. Students develop content, concept and design the project in consultation with their peers, faculty and guest critics, as well as prepare a written summary of their research, process and methodology.

GD 5025 Graphic Design MA Workshop

This course builds the student’s professional portfolio. Emphasis is placed on cultivating the student’s personal interests and abilities, increasing the range and quality of portfolio projects, and crafting a comprehensive self-presentation package that will serve as a graceful extension of the work. Readings and discussion topics will include tailoring a portfolio to specific goals (freelance, niche market, MFA programs, etc.), professional documents, pricing, ethics, and other considerations of professional practice.

GD 5035 Expanded Design

This hands on course introduces students to a variety of topics related to interactive design, rapid prototyping, and physical computing through tutorials, guided studio time, and self-directed experimentation. This course is an exploration of computer-aided modes of fabrication and their integration into contemporary art and design. A strong emphasis is on technical training on the laser cutters, 3D printers, and CNC routers. Students also spend a considerable amount of time working in CAD and CAM software, with emphasis on Rhinoceros; and introduced to algorithmic design techniques and physical computing.

GD 5037 GD/IL Collaborative Studio

This multi-disciplinary, team-based studio course engages graduate students in visual communication projects with and for non-profit and community partners. Students take on roles as designer, illustrator, art director and project manager at different points throughout a project cycle, broadening their skills in ideation, typography, traditional and digital media, as well as creating for specific audiences. Lectures on professional practice topics including licensing, contracts and intellectual property complement the studio work.

GD 5202 Visual Identity Systems

The best brands seamlessly reflect the essence and ethos of what and who they stand for. This project-driven course equips students to strategize, create, and deploy the visual and verbal language needed to mobilize a visual identity across media. In-depth projects explore research strategies, design thinking, storytelling, dynamic identity and typographic systems within the practice of building brand languages. Design process, critical analysis and refinement are emphasized.

GD 5325 Typography Intensive

This course is an intensive study of typography from basic vocabulary, anatomy and history to understanding how to choose and combine typefaces for specific media. Students develop fluency in digital typesetting and composition and apply hierarchy in both practical and expressive contexts. Best practices for developing grid systems, style sheets and detailed typography are taught via exercises and projects in a variety of media.

GD 5350 Graphic Design for the Web

This front-end-focused web design course will explore the tools, foundational principles, and conceptual frameworks required for designing contemporary websites. Through a practical lens, students will approach web design from an innovative, design-driven perspective. Most web design courses have a strong focus on coding with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This is not that course. Instead, methods for conceptualizing, designing, and collaborating on larger scale projects will be emphasized. Students will gain a clear understanding of how to design for the internet and the mediums required to be actionable in the design field. Web design will be framed as an important and integral part of a holistic communication design ecosystem.

GD 5355 3D | AR | VR

This graduate course extends graphic design principles into 3D space. Building on the foundational skills introduced in Graduate Tech Pack, students gain greater facility in the arena of dimensional design, lifting their design language to a new level. Projects incorporate emerging technology (AR&VR) and explore the boundaries of leading-edge graphic design. Hands-on demos provide a deeper dive into modeling, material, lighting, physics, and animation. Focusing projects around thesis work or other self-determined endeavors is encouraged.

GD 5360 Graduate Screenprint Studio

Graduate students will learn the techniques of screenprinting and how to apply the methods, materials, and aesthetic character of this medium to their own creative work. Students from all disciplines are encouraged to apply screenprinting techniques to work they are doing in their graduate program and/or to develop a new body of work specific to this course. Class time will be used for hands-on demonstrations, discussions of techniques, printing in the lab, and troubleshooting, as well as discussion of student work-in-progress where appropriate.

GD 5365 Graduate Tech Pack

This course is designed for those new to Motion and 3D design. Graduate students will explore critical industry software (After Effects, Cinema 4D, and Processing) and gain a wide-ranging technical foundation to support their work. Throughout the course, hands-on demos enable students to experiment with diverse tools and techniques, and build confidence to design across media.

GD 5450 Interactive Media & Pub. II

Interactive designs have multiple dimensions, such as culture, interaction, motion, and time, all of which can be pushed to create memorable and useful user experiences. This graduate-level studio course is a continuation of Interactive Media I. The course continues to explore best-practice modern online and on-screen design, production, and publishing practices including HTML, CSS, CMS, blogging and other social media. Students will have the flexibility to connect the technology and coursework to their graduate theses, core studio, and/or personal work as appropriate. The class will meet in smaller groups to accommodate the different levels of experience among students.

GD 5500 Design Studio I

Participants in this hands-on studio confront specific design problems, working both individually and in teams, that explore a variety of forms, techniques, media, and methods. Group discussions and critiques are balanced with individual meetings with faculty and visits with guest artists.

GD 5505 Visiting Designers I

Supports work taking place in GD MFA Studio I with weekend workshops with prominent designers. Two three-day workshops take place each semester. Workshops focus on design process and serve to launch projects that continue in depth in GD MFA Studio I.

GD 5512 Advanced Publication Design

In this portfolio-oriented course, graduate students will work on publication design projects involving complex typographic systems, hierarchies, formats, and sequences. The course will encourage students to expand and demonstrate their typographic vocabularies.

GD 5530 Transmedia Type Lab

Investigating typography across media, students work with historic, contemporary and evolving type technologies in 2D, 3D and 4D. Projects rooted in print, screen, space and time will build on student’s knowledge of fundamental concepts of design and typography: hierarchy, syntax, grids, information systems, and using/creating typefaces. Experiments, prototypes and projects investigate typography as an expression of language and narrative, interface and interactivity, and collaboration with an emphasis on presenting complex content in a specific context. Lectures and readings will provide a cultural, historical and technical framework for process-based projects.

GD 5535 Graduate Typeface Design

Focuses on type design through a series of workshops, assignments and lectures. The course exposes students to professional working methods, lettering techniques, typeface design principles, and typography.

GD 5538 Coding for Interaction

Focuses on interaction-based design elements as they relate to graphic communication. Students learn principles of interaction design and game design theory and gain a solid foundation in programming in Processing and p5. The course is grounded in iterative play-testing that informs the production of potent interactive moments for installation and the web. Projects include a personalized toolkit for generating visuals, a dynamic interactive space, and an independent creative project. Hands-on demos allow students to experiment with various plug-and-play sensors and other tools and techniques. Students are encouraged to focus projects around their thesis work or other self-determined endeavors. A laptop is required for this course.

GD 5546 Design Portfolio

An opportunity to assess your body of work, review your career goals, and present your creative output as a compelling professional story that reflects your design approach. Each student creates two new works to fill in portfolio gaps or meet personal goals. Students refine and edit existing works, build a digital portfolio presence, create a physical portfolio if appropriate, and clearly annotate projects. The course also addresses professional practice protocols, such as freelance contracts, resume crafting, and job-seeking strategies.

GD 5550 Design Studio II

Participants in this hands-on studio confront specific design problems, working both individually and in teams, that explore a variety of forms, techniques, media, and methods. Group discussions and critiques are balanced with individual meetings with faculty and visits with guest artists. Students begin defining a thesis project at the close of the semester.

GD 5555 Visiting Designers II

This graduate design course supports work taking place in GD MFA Studio II with weekend workshops with prominent designers. Two three-day workshops take place each semester. Workshops focus on design process and serve to launch projects that continue in depth in GD MFA Studio II.

GD 5562 Design Language Studio

A laboratory to explore how processes and materials can both form and inform design. The synthesis of old and new, analog and digital, and hand- and computer-based methods provides students with an opportunity to work beyond the constraints of the computer and take advantage of the aesthetic effects that actual materials bring to visual communication. Students will complete a series of experiments investigating different approaches to synthesizing analog and digital methods into graphic design artifacts.

GD 5568 Graduate Typography

This course serves as a deep immersion into advanced typographic practice. Typographic syntax and refinement will underscore more complex investigations of information hierarchy, grid systems, typographic voice, compositional strategy, and typography across media. Through a structured series of short exercises and sustained projects, students will increase their facility and confidence as typographers.

GD 5569 Graduate Motion Graphics

This course focuses on time-based design elements of space, pacing, and motion as they relate to graphic communication. Students gain a solid skill set in After Effects and the principles of motion design. Course projects incorporate storytelling, interactive applications, and branding. Students will learn to create storyboards, animatics, and style frames, and develop a professional workflow. Orienting projects around thesis work or other self-determined endeavors is encouraged.

GD 5570 User Experience & Interface I

This class will prepare students to design interfaces that work and generate positive experiences. UX & Interface Design I examines the space where computers, people and design intersect, with an emphasis on supporting effective communication between designers and their audience. Fundamental principles and practices of human-computer interaction, including human capabilities, interface technology, design methods, and evaluation techniques will be covered. Students will complete projects that allow them to gain hands-on experience in all phases of interface design and evaluation.

GD 5571 User Experience & Interface II

Building on the UX/ID principles acquired in UX & Interface Design I, students will be challenged with advanced and real-world UX and Interface Design conundrums. And since students will learn how to design, administer and analyze user research studies, students will design solutions informed by user behavior, motivation and affinity. Finally, this studio class will cover a number of UX models, design tools, and documentation techniques for mobile, tablet and desktop UX/ID design.

GD 5575 Graduate Game Lab

This course is an experimental laboratory that uses game design methodology to inspire new modes of design thinking and ideation. Students will complete one large self-initiated project following a number of shorter exercises and charrettes that explore the potential of new media and games as tools for creative thinking and making. The contemporary phenomenon of gamification will be examined as a model for making graphic design more inviting and engaging. Specific emphasis will be given to developing formal skills across a variety of analog and digital media. Thesis students are encouraged to apply the course prompts and project to their thesis work.

GD 5580 Film Branding Workshop

Filmmakers will work with graphic designers to brand films being developed in MICA's MFA in Filmmaking program. Multidisciplinary teams (one designer/one filmmaker) will develop strategies, materials, and campaigns to enable filmmakers to build an audience, find funding, and launch their films. Participants in this practical workshop course will actively engage contemporary media and crowdfunding platforms to achieve real-world results and master principles of contemporary entrepreneurship that can be applied not only to film but to numerous independent creative endeavors.

GD 5677 Graduate Letterpress

This course covers the craft of letterpress as it relates to the art of poster-making, discusses the history of Globe, best-known for its eye-popping, content-rich design of music posters, and the style and form that made Globe posters so distinctive. In 2011, MICA acquired many of Globe's assets — extensive wood type, photo and illustration cuts, hand-carved lettering, and sketches and posters. Using these materials, students will learn the craft of letterpress printing, from setting type to locking up forms to printing on the Vandercook proof presses in the studio.

GD 5817 Publishing Workshop

This course puts into practice the idea of "designer as author," engaging students in hands-on work creating content for real-world publications as well as speculative personal projects and prototypes. This course combines intellectual study with down-and-dirty production. All students are expected to have a make-it-happen attitude; be prepared to use all your skills, including writing, photography, design, and production.

GD 6500 Design Studio III

Second-year students begin intensive development on their thesis projects, working to define an area of study, articulate personal and professional goals, generate formal work, and create realistic plans for following through on the complete project. A thesis project is an original body of work that employs the language and techniques of graphic design to a subject, medium, or methodology. The final thesis consists of the following components: exhibition, publication, written essay, and web site. Throughout the semester, students meet individually and in small groups with faculty and visiting artists. With guidance from faculty, each student takes individual responsibility for defining a project that is personally satisfying and professionally valid.

GD 6505 Visiting Designers III

Supports work taking place in GD MFA Studio III (thesis) with weekend workshops with prominent designers. Two three-day workshops take place each semester, in addition to two visits with visiting critics. Workshops focus on design process and serve to provide each designer with new insights and challenges to shape their thesis process.

GD 6511 Thesis Reading

Participants will build an intellectual, research-based foundation for their creative thesis work. Designers will develop a research plan that includes a list of texts and explicit methods for capturing insights from texts. In addition to finding texts to support their own work, designers will identify one or more readings to share with a larger group, creating a community of ideas. Readings may come from theory, history, philosophy, science, cultural criticism, creative non-fiction, design discourses, and other areas. Course deliverables will include an annotated bibliography, classroom presentations, and short essays.

GD 6512 Thesis Publication Design

In this spring course, students will explore publication design in relation to their thesis work. Early in the semester, each student will create a short-form publication drawing from their evolving thesis work. In this first project, students will create iterative solutions and build fundamental skills in typographic hierarchy, sequencing, typeface choice, microcopy, grids, and layout. Students will apply these skills in the culminating project of the semester: an ambitious publication documenting their entire thesis process.

GD 6550 Design Studio IV

Second-year students bring their thesis project to completion in the spring semester. The final thesis consists of the following components: exhibition, publication, written essay, and web site. Students explore creative methods for presenting and interpreting their work to the public as well as documenting their work for their portfolios and for other future uses.

GD 6555 Visiting Thesis Critics

Supports work taking place in GD MFA Studio IV (thesis) with critical feedback from outside designers. The course consists of two meetings about work in progress and a final presentation with an outside critic. Designers receive additional feedback throughout the semester from their primary thesis advisor and other faculty.

Search for anything and everything at MICA:

2021 MFA Graphic Design Thesis Exhibition

This article was first published in BU Today on March 30, 2021. By Sam Drysdale (COM’21). Photos by Cydney Scott

A vibrant kaleidoscope of multi-platform design has taken up residence inside the College of Fine Arts Faye G., Jo, and James Stone Gallery. As you step inside, you’re treated to an explosion of color, texture, and movement. Welcome to the   2021 MFA Graphic Design Thesis Exhibition .

Black text mounted on the gallery’s floor-to-ceiling columns announces the title of this year’s show,   The Printer Is Broken,   and the names of the 17 talented artists whose work is represented. The title refers to a question the artists considered while putting the exhibition together: how do you adapt when things don’t go your way?

Michael Rosenberg (CFA’21) says the notion of the “broken printer” was something that professors sometimes list in their syllabus. The failure of a tool, he says, is not an excuse to not finish a piece—you have to find a way around it.

“That’s kind of   the overall metaphor that we were going with for this show, thinking about how we overcome our challenges and our tools and our systems.” Rosenberg says. “How do we adapt and change as artists and designers in our everyday lives? Our show reflects that, as we reclaim any errors that the printer has made.”

The show considers not just the versatility of the tools and methods of graphic design, but also the question, what happens when an artist’s relationship to those tools becomes problematic? What happens when the technology creates an unexpected or erratic result? What serendipitous discoveries and surprise errors occur?

Ari Epstein (CFA’21) experimented with color in one of her designs, purposely choosing inaccurate printer settings so her posters would look completely different once printed than they had on her computer screen. Instead of cyan, magenta, and yellow, the posters are turquoise, lime, and purple. Other artists played with form. One of Rosenberg’s 10 plus pieces in the show is a “poster” that is an accordion book stretching to 14 feet.

Walking through the gallery, the viewer sees the various ways the assembled artists play with the idea of embracing error. One gallery wall, dubbed the “Glitch Wall,” displays works by each artist that have been purposely distorted. Another section, the “CMYK Wall,” explores what happens when graphic artists must confront limitations. Here, all of the work has been created using only standard ink colors for a printer—cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. There’s also a “Scale Wall,” which presents a wonderful sort of optical illusion.

The exhibition includes several works by each artist and part of the show’s fun and what makes it so impressive is discovering their versatility. Works take the form of projections, animations, posters, and books, underscoring how technological advances have pushed graphic design well past a print-based medium.

The show was organized by the students. Some handled the overall planning, with subcommittees working on different sections: a title wall team (including the columns), a print team, and a projection team. The exhibition has been overseen by   Christopher Sleboda , a CFA associate professor of art and of graphic design, who arrived at BU this past fall.

He says the students wanted to push themselves to not only create art, but also to find new and creative ways to display it. “Most exhibitions have a title wall that has some introductory information on a flat surface,” Sleboda says, “but the students were interested in how the entire space could be the title wall. So they used the architecture of the gallery.”

What makes this year’s MFA Graphic Design Thesis Show so exciting, Sleboda says, is the way it showcases the individual voices and deeply personal approaches to design of each of the 17 artists, while saying something collectively about the erratic nature of equipment in creating art.

“It’s a group of students coming together to say something with a unified voice, while putting together individual practices and work,” he says.

Read the full article

The   MFA Graphic Design Thesis Exhibition ,   The Printer Is Broken,   is at the Faye G., Jo, and James Stone Gallery, 855 Commonwealth Ave., through Tuesday, April 6; hours: Monday to Friday, 11 am to 5 pm. Because of the pandemic, exhibitions are limited to on-campus BU students, faculty, and staff. A virtual tour will be available soon for other visitors.

• Share this story

Share this:

• Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)

M.F.A. Communication Design

Build your future with an mfa in communication design.

Positioned within the School of Art and Design, the MFA in Communication Design at Texas State University offers the advantages of a public research institution, including a diverse and active faculty, opportunities for interdisciplinary study, and affordability. A robust design lecture series and an on-campus residency each semester promote the exchange of ideas and perspectives across a wide range of specialties.

Why MFA/CD?

• Request Information

Emphasis in Conceptual Thinking, Experimentation and Investigation The degree will require a minimum of 60 credit hours: 18 credit hours of the core curriculum, 30 credit hours of prescribed communication design studio electives, six credit hours of free electives, and six credit hours of thesis. The formal thesis will represent students’ research, design, and documentation of an original hypothesis in communication design.

Online Availability The majority of this program is offered online with a multi-day, on-campus residency each semester. The residency is packed with workshops, critiques, and visiting designer lectures. International students, please visit the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) regarding additional considerations in taking online courses.

Graduate Assistantships The MFA/CD program offers a limited number of assistantships to graduate students to help fund their graduate education. Most of the assistantships in the School of Art & Design allow selected students to gain experience teaching in the undergraduate communication design program. Graduate Assistants are paid a stipend for 20 hours per week of work. In addition, students who would normally be charged out-of-state tuition rates are lowered to in-state rates.

Diverse Faculty and Visiting Designers MFA/CD faculty demonstrate sustained activity in peer-reviewed forums, including commissions, invited talks, lectures, presentations, and internal and external grant awards. Recognition and publication of faculty design work are evident in published books. Faculty research topics include social practice, publication as collaborative form, alphabetic systems, concepts of interconnectedness, and the dynamic of complementing opposites, human-centered design, screen-based interactive storytelling, rapid prototyping techniques for virtual reality, designing environments to help veterans cope with PTSD, experimental publishing, racist motifs in design. Meet our Faculty

Career Options Students have a wide variety of potential career paths such as graphic designer, UI/UX designer, design researcher, typographer, and educator. Furthermore, the program equips students to move their careers beyond a traditional 9-5 job and use design to engage their communities. For students seeking a career as an educator in higher education, the program provides mentorship and the appropriate academic credential and the terminal degree in the discipline of visual communication design: the MFA degree.

• Program Overview
• Browse our Courses

Each semester, we program a lecture series featuring a diverse spectrum of contemporary designers and a multi-day residency — scheduled like a design conference — with visiting designers leading lectures and workshops.

• SEE WHAT'S HAPPENING

Ready to Learn More?

• MFA/CD Viewbook

Application Deadlines

*A flexible deadline means applications received after the standard deadline may be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis with no guarantees for admission consideration.

Event Spotlight

  MFA Fall 2022 Residency: December 2nd & December 3rd

Connect With Us

Call us: 512.245.7450 Email us: [email protected]

Ohio State nav bar

Ohio state navigation bar.

• BuckeyeLink
• Search Ohio State

Mila Gajic, MFA Thesis Defense

Save the Date: Mila Gajic 's MFA Oral Defense is set for April 1, 2024!  Mila joined the Department of Design in 2021 in the Digital Animation and Interactive Media track. She has served as a Graduate Research Associate at the Advanced Computing Center for the Arts and Design (ACCAD), where she focuses on crafting 3D assets for virtual reality projects.

Committee Members:  Matthew Lewis, Advisor Scott Swearingen Shadrick Addy  Thesis Title:   Affordances of Immersive Virtual Spaces as a Medium for Representing an Inquiry Process Project Description:  

Mila Gajic is interested in how organizing conceptual inquiries into “navigable spatial diagrams” through experiential media can foster new perspectives and insights through interactive engagement.  Using a research-through-design approach and the mediums of virtual and augmented reality, she explores how 3D virtual worlds can uncover additional formats for presenting creative research and sharing it with others. Mila's project consists of immersive virtual spaces whose structures depict the core ideas and connections within her research interests over the past two years. To translate mostly abstract concepts into a spatial layout, Mila coded specific virtual elements with symbolic meanings linked to her practice. These spatial metaphors facilitate an interpretative space that balances authorial control and user agency in immersive media. Mila also explored ways of offering insights into her design process within this virtual environment through spatial annotations that users can unveil gradually.  Rooted in Reflective Practice, this project merges methodologies of Human-Centered Design and Storytelling Design for VR, emphasizing user experience within immersive nonlinear narratives. It also employs Arts-Based Research practices in translating inquiries from non-spatial to spatial forms, while promoting transparency and aesthetic response in the research process. Beyond uncovering additional avenues for presenting inquiries, this project addresses current gaps in the field of mixed reality, including text positioning in 3D spaces and intensifying the sense of presence in virtual worlds.

Events Filters: