M.F.A. in Industrial Design

Entry requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 500

1. Academic Qualifications:

• For Postgraduate Programs, international students are required to have a bachelor's degree from a recognized institution. The academic qualifications must be equivalent to U.S. standards.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7 with no individual band score less than 6.5.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 82.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum DET score of 110 is required.

3. WES evaluation required.

The Academy of Art University offers a range of scholarships to international students, helping to make art and design education more accessible. Scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate programs, and they can significantly ease the financial burden of tuition. 

1. International Student Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically designed for international students who are applying for undergraduate programs. The award amount varies, and eligibility criteria may include a strong academic background, portfolio quality, and a passion for art and design.

2. The Spring Show Scholarship: The Spring Show is an annual event showcasing the best works from the Academy's students. This scholarship recognizes students who have participated in this event and demonstrated exceptional talent. It can be a substantial financial aid package.

3. Athletic Scholarship: International students with exceptional athletic skills may be eligible for athletic scholarships. The availability and amount of these scholarships depend on the student's performance and contribution to the university's sports teams.

4. Academic Scholarships: The Academy of Art University offers various academic scholarships based on a student's academic performance. Students who have achieved excellence in their previous studies may qualify for these scholarships.

5. Portfolio Scholarships: Many scholarships are awarded based on the quality of a student's portfolio. These scholarships often require students to submit a portfolio that demonstrates their artistic skills and creativity.

6. Alumni Scholarships: The Academy values its alumni and offers scholarships to relatives of alumni. This scholarship may be open to international students who have family members who attended the university.

7. Graduate Scholarships: International students pursuing graduate programs can also access scholarships based on their academic achievements and career goals. These scholarships can help offset the costs of a master's or doctoral degree.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and criteria may change over time.

Pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Industrial Design at the Academy of Art University can lead to a myriad of exciting and lucrative career opportunities. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to take on various roles in the dynamic field of industrial design.  

1. Product Designer: As product designers, M.F.A. graduates can create and develop a wide range of consumer products. These may include electronic gadgets, furniture, household items, medical devices, and more. They are responsible for ensuring that the form, function, and aesthetics of the product meet user needs and market demands.

2. Automotive Designer: Automotive design is a specialized field within industrial design. Graduates can work with automobile manufacturers to design vehicles that are both aesthetically appealing and functional. This role involves creating sketches, 3D models, and prototypes of cars and understanding the complexities of automotive engineering.

3. Furniture Designer: Furniture designers use their creative talents to design functional and stylish furniture. They work with various materials and manufacturing techniques to create pieces that are not only visually appealing but also comfortable and ergonomic.

4. Consumer Electronics Designer: In an era of rapidly evolving technology, there's a high demand for industrial designers in the consumer electronics sector. These designers work on the aesthetics and functionality of devices such as smartphones, tablets, wearables, and more.

5. Sustainable Design Specialist: With a growing focus on sustainability and eco-consciousness, industrial designers can specialize in sustainable design. They work on creating products with minimal environmental impact and optimal resource efficiency.

6. Medical Device Designer: The healthcare industry relies on industrial designers to create medical devices, equipment, and healthcare products. Graduates may contribute to the design of items like prosthetics, diagnostic devices, and healthcare furniture.

7. Toy and Entertainment Designer: This unique specialization allows industrial designers to work on toys, games, and entertainment products. They aim to create engaging and safe products for children and adults alike.

8. Design Entrepreneur: Some M.F.A. graduates opt to start their own design firms or become design entrepreneurs. They can develop their line of products or offer design consulting services to clients in various industries.

9. Design Researcher or Educator: For those inclined toward academia, pursuing a career as a design researcher or educator is an option. They can teach industrial design at educational institutions or engage in research to advance the field's knowledge and practices.

10. Trend Analyst: Trend analysts or trend forecasters work to identify emerging design trends and consumer preferences. They are instrumental in helping companies stay ahead of the competition by creating products that resonate with current market trends.

11. UX (User Experience) Designer: Graduates with a strong understanding of user-centered design can work as UX designers, focusing on creating intuitive and user-friendly digital interfaces for websites, apps, and software.

12. Exhibition and Display Designer: These designers work on creating captivating and immersive exhibition and display spaces. This could include trade show booths, museum exhibits, or retail displays.