University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

This programme combines intensive studio practice with theoretical coursework and applied research. Core topics typically include design theory and history, research methods for design, user-centred and human factors approaches, material exploration and fabrication, digital design and prototyping, and professional practice.

• Studio Projects: semester-long and short-format studios that emphasise concept development, iterative prototyping and exhibition-ready outcomes.
• Design Research: qualitative and quantitative methods, ethnography, design-led inquiry and the development of a research-informed design brief.
• Materials & Fabrication: hands-on workshops in wood, metal, ceramics, textiles and digital fabrication (CNC, laser cutting, 3D printing) to support physical and hybrid outcomes.
• Digital & Interaction Design: interfaces, service design, UX/UI prototyping and coding basics for interactive projects.
• Professional Practice & Portfolio: project management, intellectual property, client engagement, pitching and portfolio development aimed at employability or independent practice.
• Capstone / Thesis Project: a substantial, faculty-supervised culminating project or thesis that demonstrates mastery of skills and original thinking; public presentation and exhibition are typically required.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in design, fine art, architecture, engineering, or another relevant discipline. The programme emphasises demonstrable creative ability and potential rather than a single specific undergraduate major.

• Portfolio: a curated selection of design or art work that shows range, process and problem-solving skills.
• Academic transcripts: official records from previous postsecondary study.
• Personal statement: outlining interests, goals and how the programme will support your development.
• References: academic or professional referees who can speak to your suitability for graduate study.
• English language proficiency: demonstrated where required by the university for applicants whose first language is not English.

Some applicants may be invited to an interview or asked to supply additional material. The programme does not routinely require standardised test scores, but specific requirements and processes are provided by the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of roles across commercial, cultural and public sectors. The programme’s emphasis on applied work and professional practice prepares students for both industry employment and independent creative careers.

• Product designer, industrial designer and consumer goods design
• Experience, interaction and user-experience (UX/UI) designer
• Design researcher and service designer in healthcare, urbanism and social innovation
• Creative director, art director and studio lead roles in agencies and design firms
• Exhibition, set and installation designer for museums, galleries and events
• Entrepreneurship—founding design studios or launching product lines
• Further academic study, including PhD programmes focused on design research

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) is known for a practice-focused curriculum and strong industry connections. Students benefit from purpose-built studios, fabrication facilities and digital labs that support both analogue and digital-making processes.

• Cooperative education and industry links: the university’s established connections with local and national employers create pathways to internships, collaborative projects and applied client work.
• Interdisciplinary environment: opportunities to collaborate with students and faculty in architecture, planning, business and engineering broaden project scope and real-world relevance.
• Facilities and resources: access to fabrication shops, testing equipment and exhibition spaces that support high-quality, production-ready outcomes.
• Faculty and alumni network: practising designers and researchers provide mentorship, while an active alumni community can support career development.

Overall, the programme is suited to applicants who want a balanced combination of studio practice, applied research and professional preparation in a design-led academic setting.