Marywood University

What you'll study

This programme combines studio practice, design theory and professional development. Students typically follow a mix of core and elective courses alongside a sustained culminating project or thesis. Study emphasises material exploration, conceptual development and market-aware design solutions.

• Studio Practice: intensive workshops in areas such as printmaking, ceramics, textiles, metals/jewellery, furniture or mixed-media sculpture, depending on faculty specialisms and available facilities.
• Design Fundamentals: courses in composition, colour theory, typographic principles and visual literacy to support both analogue and digital work.
• Digital Tools & Processes: modules covering digital imaging, vector graphics, web and interface basics, 3D modelling and rapid prototyping techniques used in applied design contexts.
• Materials & Fabrication: practical study of materials, surface treatments and fabrication methods that inform applied arts and product realisation.
• Theory & Context: seminars on design history, contemporary craft, critical theory and cultural context to situate creative work within broader discourse.
• Professional Practice: courses or workshops on portfolio development, exhibition curation, freelancing, business practices and client communication.
• Culminating Project/Thesis: an independent, faculty-supervised project that demonstrates conceptual rigour and resolved craft or design outcomes, often presented in a public exhibition or professional portfolio format.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree, preferably in fine art, design, applied arts, crafts or a related discipline. Candidates with substantial professional experience in a creative field may also be considered.

• Portfolio: a curated portfolio of recent work demonstrating skill, creative thinking and the potential for graduate-level study.
• Academic transcripts: official records from previous higher education institutions.
• Personal statement: a statement of intent outlining artistic aims, interest in the programme and proposed areas of study.
• References: academic or professional references attesting to the applicant’s suitability for graduate study.
• Interview: shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview or review of work with faculty, either in person or remotely.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme move into a wide range of creative and applied roles. The combination of studio skill, conceptual practice and professional preparation supports diverse career paths.

• Graphic designer, brand designer or art director in agencies and in-house teams
• Product, industrial or furniture designer for bespoke and small-batch producers
• Textile, jewellery or ceramics designer for craft studios, galleries and makers’ collectives
• Exhibition curator, gallery manager or arts administrator
• Freelance maker, consultant or creative entrepreneur selling work directly or via platforms and craft fairs
• Further academic study or teaching roles in art and design at tertiary or community education levels

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a supportive, small-scale graduate environment where close faculty mentorship and hands-on access to studios and fabrication facilities are central. The university’s arts provision is rooted in professional practice and community engagement, giving students opportunities to exhibit, collaborate and connect with regional cultural organisations.

• Facilities: dedicated studios, workshops and digital labs that support both traditional craft processes and contemporary digital fabrication.
• Faculty: practising artists and designers who combine teaching with active professional practices and applied research.
• Interdisciplinary approach: ease of collaboration across visual arts, design and related departments to develop hybrid projects and professional networks.
• Community links: proximity to regional galleries, cultural organisations and maker communities that provide exhibition and placement opportunities.