M.F.A. in Visual Communication and Design

Entry Requirements for postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement for postgraduate admission is typically a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 60% or above.

English Language Proficiency Requirements: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0  is required with no individual band score below 6.5.

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): The minimum overall score required is 94.  

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Kent State University accepts the DET, with a minimum score of 120.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum overall score of 65 is required.

Kent State University offers a range of scholarships to international students to help them manage the cost of tuition and make their education more affordable. 

1. Global Scholarship: The Global Scholarship is a merit-based award for undergraduate international students. It ranges from $2,000 to $7,500 per year and is renewable based on academic performance. Applicants are automatically considered for this scholarship upon admission.

2. International Freshman Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for first-time, incoming international undergraduate students. It provides awards ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 per year. Students are automatically considered when they apply for admission.

3. International Transfer Student Scholarship: Transfer students from international institutions are eligible for this scholarship, which offers awards from $4,000 to $9,500 per year. The scholarship is based on academic merit, and applicants are considered upon admission.

4. Kent State University Honors College Scholarship: Exceptional international undergraduate students may apply for the Honors College Scholarship. It covers in-state tuition and offers additional funding for research and study abroad opportunities.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Kent State University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships provide a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable professional experience.

6. Graduate Dean's Award for Excellence: This award is for outstanding international graduate students and covers partial tuition costs. Eligibility and application details vary by department and program.

7. Global Diversity Scholarship: Kent State recognizes the value of diversity on campus. This scholarship, awarded to incoming undergraduate international students, provides $4,000 per year for up to four years.

8. Other Scholarships: Kent State University also offers various department-specific scholarships and awards. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so students should check with their academic departments.

9. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundation scholarships, and international organizations' funding programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Visual Communication and Design program at Kent State University equips students with advanced skills in visual communication, design thinking, and creativity, preparing them for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the dynamic field of visual arts and design. Graduates of this program find themselves well-positioned for a variety of career paths.

1. Graphic Designers: Graduates with an M.F.A. in Visual Communication and Design often pursue careers as graphic designers. They create visual content for print and digital media, working with organizations to convey messages, brand identities, and information through compelling visuals. They may work in advertising agencies, design studios, or as freelancers.

2. Art Directors: Many M.F.A. graduates go on to become art directors, leading creative teams in developing visual concepts and designs for various projects, such as advertising campaigns, magazines, or films. Art directors are responsible for ensuring that the visual elements align with the overall message and goals of the project.

3. User Experience (UX) Designers: With the increasing importance of user-centered design, some graduates choose careers as UX designers. They focus on enhancing the usability and user satisfaction of digital products by creating intuitive and aesthetically pleasing interfaces. UX designers often work in tech companies, startups, or design agencies.

4. Web Designers and Developers: The M.F.A. program equips students with skills in web design and development, making them valuable assets in the digital landscape. They create visually engaging and responsive websites, ensuring a seamless user experience. Web designers and developers may work in-house or as freelancers.

5. Packaging Designers: Graduates can pursue careers as packaging designers, working with consumer goods companies to create eye-catching and functional packaging for products. Effective packaging design plays a crucial role in attracting customers and conveying product information.

6. Educators and Professors: Some M.F.A. graduates choose to share their expertise by becoming educators and professors in higher education institutions. They teach design principles, mentor emerging designers, and contribute to the academic field through research and publications.

7. Brand Strategists: Graduates may opt for roles as brand strategists, helping organizations define their brand identities and develop strategies for building and maintaining brand equity. This involves in-depth market research, creative thinking, and visual storytelling.

8. Multimedia Artists and Animators: Those interested in animation and multimedia arts can pursue careers as multimedia artists and animators. They create visual effects, animations, and interactive media for industries such as entertainment, gaming, and advertising.

9. Freelancers and Entrepreneurs: The skills acquired in the program empower graduates to work as freelancers or start their own design businesses. They can take on various projects, from logo design to marketing collateral, and build a portfolio of clients.

10. Visual Content Creators: In the age of social media and content marketing, visual content creators are in high demand. Graduates can specialize in creating engaging visuals for social media platforms, blogs, and online publications.