MFA in Information Design & Data Visualization

Boston

Location

Full-Time

Commitment

2 years

Duration of Program

Fall

Entry Terms

Yes

Meets F1 Visa Requirements

Overview

The MFA program trains students in harnessing visual languages to support discovery and communicate information across a range of disciplines. Students have the unique advantage of studying at a major research university known for interdisciplinary collaboration located in Boston, a global center for technology, science, and education and a hotspot for information design and data visualization.

Graduates will be professional information designers and data visualization experts able to collaborate effectively in this dynamic and burgeoning field of practice and research. They will be prepared to work in design agencies, research institutions, companies, and public institutions. The program intends to produce professionals skilled in design principles and practices needed to assume leadership roles in an evolving interdisciplinary field. Students will also be well positioned to pursue PhDs and academic careers.

The degree requires 60 credit hours over two academic years, with an option to engage in Northeastern’s renowned cooperative education (co-op) program. A thesis project, a written thesis, and an accompanying work exhibition in our thesis show are required. The program offers studio courses and seminars in design, data analysis, programming, research methodologies and historical and cultural literacy plus lectures from visiting artists and researchers.

The MFA in Information Design and Data Visualization is a STEM-designated degree as of the Fall 2020 start term.

More Details

Unique Features

The first MFA program entirely dedicated to information design and visualization.
The program offers studio courses, lectures, and seminars in design, strategy, theory, research methodologies, and historical and cultural literacy.
Graduates will be prepared to work in design firms, research firms, corporations and government agencies.

Admissions

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-50 university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

$113.6K

Tuition

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

Application form
Application fee
Resumé
Personal statement
Transcripts from all institutions attended
Three letters of recommendation
TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo exam scores for international applicants

Portfolio

Learn more about the admissions process from the College of Arts, Media and Design

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Arts, Media, and Design admissions process, policies, and required materials

Admissions Dates

Fall Entry Term

Priority deadline for scholarship consideration: February 1

Final deadline for international applicants: May 1

Final deadline for domestic applicants: August 1

Curriculum

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

Experiential Learning

Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

Faculty

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Students

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 14 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 2,900+ employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

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