American University of Sharjah

What you'll study

The MFA in Trans-disciplinary Design is structured around sustained studio practice, critical theory, research methods and collaborative projects. Students undertake advanced studio seminars that explore interdisciplinary processes — including systems design, speculative design, social practice, interactive media, material experimentation and spatial interventions. The curriculum emphasises iterative prototyping, reflexive research and public-facing work.

• Core studio courses: long-term practicum studios where students develop a major thesis project under faculty supervision, supported by peer crits and reviews.
• Research methods and theory: seminars on design research, critical theory, visual culture, ethics and methodologies for trans-disciplinary work.
• Technical electives: courses in digital fabrication, interactive systems, video and sound production, coding for designers, and material technologies.
• Collaboration and community practice: projects with community partners, cross-department collaborations and interventions in public or institutional contexts.
• Professional practice: modules on portfolio development, grant writing, exhibition curation and entrepreneurship for creative practitioners.
• MFA thesis: a significant body of creative work accompanied by a written or practice-based research statement and a public presentation/exhibition.

Workshops, visiting artist talks and opportunities to use the university’s fabrication labs, media studios and exhibition spaces are integral to the learning experience. The programme encourages students to situate studio outcomes within broader cultural, environmental and technological debates.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in design, fine arts, architecture, media, engineering or a related discipline, or demonstrate equivalent professional experience and a portfolio of creative work. Required materials typically include:

• A current CV or résumé highlighting relevant education and experience.
• A curated portfolio of creative work that demonstrates conceptual rigor, technical ability and evidence of trans-disciplinary thinking.
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests, proposed areas of investigation and professional goals.
• Academic transcripts from previous institutions.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two) from academic or professional referees.

Applicants for whom English is not a first language may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved language test or equivalent evidence of English-medium study or professional practice. The admissions process may include an interview—either in person or online—to discuss the portfolio and proposed research direction.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MFA in Trans-disciplinary Design pursue a wide range of careers that bridge art, design, research and civic practice. Typical career paths include:

• Independent practice as artists, designers or creative directors producing exhibitions, commissioned work and cross-disciplinary projects.
• Roles in design research, innovation labs and interdisciplinary teams within cultural institutions, NGOs and public agencies.
• Positions in experience design, service design, UX research, and interactive media in commercial and social enterprises.
• Curatorial, programme development and education roles in museums, galleries and cultural organisations.
• Further academic research or teaching at the postgraduate level, including doctoral study in design, art or related fields.

The emphasis on research-led studio practice, public engagement and professional skills prepares graduates to lead projects that require synthesis across disciplines and to communicate work to diverse audiences.

Why study at American University of Sharjah

American University of Sharjah offers a multicultural campus in the UAE with strong links to the creative and cultural sectors of the region. The university provides access to well-equipped workshops, digital fabrication labs, media studios and exhibition spaces, enabling ambitious material and media experimentation.

Students benefit from a faculty with practice-based and research backgrounds, visiting artists and designers, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across architecture, engineering, the arts and humanities. The programme’s location in a dynamic, internationally connected city supports regional and global networks, professional partnerships and public presentations of student work.

Overall, the MFA in Trans-disciplinary Design at AUS is suited to applicants seeking a rigorous, studio-centred environment to develop hybrid practices that respond to contemporary cultural, social and technological challenges.