School of Graphic Design

MFA Program Learning Outcomes

The MFA graduate degree program in Graphic Design emphasizes mastery of the profession — including narrative abilities, presentation skills, strategic thinking, problem solving and the ability to develop innovative conceptual solutions. Areas of specialized training include typography, visual literacy, identity, and print publication. Students acquire the finely tuned design skills, self-discipline and professional expertise necessary to become advanced practitioners.

The graduate student's final thesis project must integrate concept and content with technical prowess to make an original contribution to the field of graphic design. The thesis project is critically reviewed and approved by the graduate final review committee, then professionally exhibited to the industry and public.

MFA graduates of the School of Graphic Design will meet the following student performance criteria:

• MFA Thesis Project

  • Propose a graduate project that has the potential for successful development
  • Produce a graduate thesis project that makes a significant contribution to the world of design

• Conceptual Skills

  • Conceive and express ideas that solve problems, recognizing design's larger role
  • Conceive and execute ideas that are likely to engage an intended audience
  • Create unique, audience-appropriate content for the thesis project

• Formal Skills

  • Effectively synthesize form and content to communicate complex ideas
  • Produce work demonstrating mature design skills and aesthetics
  • Make effective typographic choices for the project
  • Demonstrate command of media, materials and technique
  • Demonstrate attention to detail

• Critical Thinking

  • Conduct necessary research to solve problems
  • Utilize appropriate creative development techniques to successfully complete the thesis project
  • Demonstrate the resourcefulness necessary to execute the thesis project

• Professional Readiness

  • Demonstrate sound organizational and project management skills
  • Effectively present and communicate ideas to the review committee
  • Demonstrate the skills necessary for their chosen professional path through coordination and completion of a comprehensive portfolio, personal website, and final thesis project

Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

1. Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
2. Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
3. Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
4. Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
5. Evaluate work in their field, including their own work, using professional terminology.
6. Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
7. Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.

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