Kent State University

What you'll study

This programme combines studio practice, critical theory and applied research to develop outcomes across communication, product and interaction design. Coursework balances practical projects with methodological training so you can produce a substantial portfolio and a major culminating project or thesis.

• Studio Practice — intensive studio coursework focused on concept development, prototyping and iterative design across analogue and digital media.
• Design Research & Methods — qualitative and quantitative research methods, user-centred enquiry, ethnography, and design-led research practice.
• Materials and Processes — material exploration, fabrication techniques, digital fabrication, and production workflows for applied design.
• Visual Communication & Typography — advanced layout, information design, branding and typographic systems for multi-platform projects.
• Interaction and Experience Design — human–computer interaction fundamentals, interface design, service and experience design principles.
• Professional Practice — project management, design business models, portfolio development, client relations and ethics in applied arts.
• Electives and Interdisciplinary Collaboration — options to work with related areas such as fashion, theatre, architecture or museum studies to broaden applied practice.
• Culminating Project or Thesis — a major applied creative project or written thesis demonstrating original creative research and professional-level outcomes.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold an undergraduate degree in design, visual arts, applied arts or a related discipline. Consideration is also given to applicants from other fields who can demonstrate substantial creative practice or relevant professional experience.

• Academic qualification: Bachelor’s degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject.
• Portfolio: a curated portfolio of recent creative work demonstrating concept development, process and resolved outcomes.
• Supporting documents: academic transcripts, CV/resume and a personal statement outlining objectives and areas of interest within the programme.
• References: two academic or professional references.
• English language: documented English proficiency if prior education was not in English (tests such as IELTS or TOEFL are typically accepted).
• Additional requirements: interviews or project proposals may be requested as part of the admissions review.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of applied creative roles across private, public and cultural sectors. The programme prepares students for both practice and research-led careers.

• UX/UI designer, interaction designer or product designer in technology and service organisations.
• Visual or communication designer in agencies, branding firms and in-house creative teams.
• Design researcher or design strategist working on user insight and service innovation.
• Creative director or senior designer roles leading multidisciplinary teams.
• Exhibition designer, museum educator or roles in cultural institutions applying design to public engagement.
• Freelance practitioner, consultant or founder of design studios and social enterprises.
• Further academic study or doctoral research in design and applied arts.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State offers a supportive, practice-focused environment within a large public research university, with access to specialised studios, digital fabrication and print facilities and opportunities for cross-college collaboration. The university’s School of Art and design programmes emphasise applied practice, enabling students to exhibit work, undertake community and industry projects, and develop a professional network in the Cleveland–Akron region and beyond.

Teaching combines faculty-led studio mentorship with opportunities to work alongside practicing designers, access visiting critics and participate in internships. The programme’s emphasis on both practical skills and design research positions graduates to adapt to evolving design roles in industry, culture and education.