University of Kansas

What you'll study

The programme combines studio practice, design theory and applied research. Core areas commonly explored include visual communication and typography, interaction and user-centred design, product and material experimentation, design history and critical theory, and methods for practice-led research. Students typically complete a mix of taught modules, collaborative studios, elective workshops and a substantial culminating project or thesis that demonstrates original work and reflective research.

• Studio Practice: sustained, tutor-led studios where students develop projects from brief to realisation, covering process, prototyping and presentation.
• Design Research and Theory: methods for user research, ethnography, critical writing and situating practice within contemporary debates.
• Digital & Interaction Design: courses in UX/UI, interaction prototyping, information architecture and digital media tools.
• Materials and Making: hands-on exploration of materials, manufacturing processes, model-making and fabrication technologies.
• Professional Practice: modules on freelance and studio business models, project management, portfolio development and industry engagement.
• Final Project / Thesis: an extended independent project (creative work with accompanying critical exegesis) or a practice-based research dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in design, fine art, architecture, visual communication, industrial design or a closely related field. Candidates with substantial professional experience in design or an arts-related discipline are also considered. Typical application materials include:

• Academic transcripts from previous study
• A curated portfolio of creative work that demonstrates concept development and technical skill
• A personal statement outlining interests, career goals and reasons for choosing the programme
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency through an approved English test or equivalent evidence of English-medium study. GRE/GMAT are not commonly required; check department guidance if you have questions about specific documentation or alternative experience-based entry routes.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of design and art-related careers. Common roles include:

• Graphic designer, brand and identity specialist
• User experience (UX) / user interface (UI) designer and interaction designer
• Product designer, materials developer or maker in industrial and craft sectors
• Design researcher or service designer in public, commercial or NGO settings
• Art director, creative director or design consultant in agencies and studios
• Curator, educator or researcher in museums, galleries or higher education

The programme emphasises portfolio development, industry engagement and transferable skills such as critical thinking, visual communication and project management, all of which support progression into senior creative roles or further academic research (MFA/PhD).

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers design students a balance of rigorous studio teaching and interdisciplinary opportunity within a public research university. The School of Art & Design provides access to dedicated studios, fabrication workshops, print and digital labs, and faculty active in contemporary practice and research. Students benefit from collaborations across campus—including architecture, journalism, business and engineering—as well as connections with regional cultural institutions such as the Spencer Museum of Art and a lively local arts community in Lawrence and nearby Kansas City.

Smaller cohort sizes support close mentoring, while open labs and exhibition spaces allow students to test ideas publicly and build professional networks. The programme’s focus on applied arts ensures graduates leave with both a strong body of creative work and practical skills that are valued by employers and cultural organisations.