Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

This master's programme emphasises hands-on studio practice alongside research, conceptual development and professional practice. Students typically follow a mixture of core studio courses, elective specialisms and a culminating thesis or practicum project. Areas of study commonly include:

• Studio Practice: advanced coursework in graphic design, product/industrial design, ceramics, textiles, metalwork, furniture, intermedia and other applied arts studios depending on faculty strengths.
• Design Theory and Critical Studies: seminars on design history, contemporary theory, visual culture and sustainability in design.
• Research Methods: methods for creative research, including qualitative inquiry, process documentation and practice-led research frameworks.
• Professional Practice: courses on portfolio development, exhibition practice, grant writing, entrepreneurship and collaboration with community or industry partners.
• Electives and Interdisciplinary Work: opportunities to take electives in related departments such as art education, digital media, or business, encouraging cross-disciplinary projects.
• Capstone Project or Thesis: a substantial final project or written thesis that demonstrates mastery of a chosen specialism and contributes to the student’s professional portfolio.

Instruction balances individual tutorials, group critiques, technical workshops and public exhibitions. Facilities typically include shared studios, fabrication labs, digital media labs and kiln/metal/wood workshops, with access to faculty expertise across applied arts disciplines.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in design, fine art, craft, visual communication, or a related field. Typical application components include:

• An academic transcript showing prior undergraduate study
• A curated portfolio of recent creative work that demonstrates technical skill, conceptual development and potential for graduate study
• A personal statement describing artistic objectives, research interests and reasons for choosing the programme
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
• Where relevant, a CV outlining professional experience and exhibitions or commissions

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university’s English proficiency requirements. Admissions are based on the strength of the portfolio and statement as well as academic background; some applicants may be invited for an interview or portfolio review.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers that draw on both creative skill and critical thinking. Typical destinations include:

• Professional practice as designers, makers, studio artists, furniture makers, ceramicists or metalworkers
• Visual communication roles such as senior graphic designer, art director or UX/UI designer
• Product and industrial design positions within manufacturing, prototyping and consumer goods companies
• Curatorial, gallery and exhibition management roles, or careers in arts administration
• Teaching at community, pre-college or tertiary levels (additional certification may be required for some academic positions)
• Freelance practice, creative entrepreneurship and consultancy including design strategy or brand development

The programme is designed to build a professional portfolio, prepare graduates for commissioning and exhibition opportunities, and develop the business skills necessary for independent practice or employment in creative industries.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers a studio-centred environment with small-class critiques and hands-on mentorship from faculty active in applied arts and design. The university provides access to well-equipped workshops and digital fabrication resources that support cross-disciplinary experimentation. Located within reach of a broader regional arts and design community, students benefit from exhibition opportunities, industry connections and collaborative projects with local organisations. The programme’s emphasis on both practical skills and critical enquiry prepares graduates to enter diverse professional paths or continue to doctoral-level research if they choose.