Information Design and Data Visualization
Master's
The first MFA program entirely dedicated to information design and visualization.
Program overview
Where design meets data
The Information Design and Data Visualization MFA program trains the next generation of industry leaders to harness 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 become professional information designers and data visualization experts able to collaborate effectively in this dynamic and burgeoning field of practice and research.
The Information Design and Data Visualization MFA program trains the next generation of industry leaders to harness 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 become professional information designers and data visualization experts able to collaborate effectively in this dynamic and burgeoning field of practice and research.
- 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.
- 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.
- Graduates will be prepared to work in design firms, research firms, corporations, and government agencies or pursue PhDs and academic careers.
- The program is a STEM-designated degree as of the fall 2020 term.
Admissions
Apply to the program
A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.
A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.
Fall Entry Term
Priority deadline for scholarship consideration: February 1
Final deadline for international applicants: May 1
Final deadline for domestic applicants: August 1
Application form
Application fee
Resumé
Personal statement
Transcripts from all institutions attended
The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)
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
Program objectives
Prepare for success
The program intends to produce professionals skilled in design principles and practices needed to assume leadership roles in an evolving interdisciplinary field.
Students graduate with the skills in design principles and practices needed to assume leadership roles in the field. Students will also be well positioned to pursue PhDs and academic careers.
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.
Connect with us
Want more information?
We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team.
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Cost of attendance
Tuition and financial aid
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$123,540Tuition in USD
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.
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