The M.A. in Design and Innovation (MADI) is a two-year, full-time graduate program in Human-Centered Design housed in the Division of Design at Meadows School of the Arts. This program encourages research through design and design through research, creating meaningful design solutions rooted in evidence while fostering active learning environments that prioritize hands-on projects and group work.
People: The Master of Arts in Design and Innovation (MADI) program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing a desire to learn design and effect change. No design degree is required for admission.
Process: MADI teaches the Human-Centered Design process, encouraging research through design and design through research. The curriculum fosters active learning environments that prioritize hands-on projects and group work.
Projects: The MADI graduate experience focuses on rigorous projects where students collaborate with real-world clients. These projects provide valuable experience in applying design principles to solve challenges in both private and public sectors.
Partners: MADI forms partnerships with professional and educational entities to support the application of Human-Centered Design. These partnerships contribute to furthering the field of design through evidence-based approaches.
To learn more about the program, please sign up for a Virtual Info Session Here
We equip students with the Human-Centered Design process and apply it through exercises and projects.
Innovation thrives through collaboration among diverse student teams while challenging the expected.
We use and teach qualitative research methods to understand problems thoroughly.
Our program integrates seamlessly with professional practice, welcoming industry partners.
We teach students that question quality determines design efficacy.
We emphasize meticulous craftsmanship and clear design communication.
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In addition to meeting the Meadows School of the Arts degree requirements, candidates are required to hold a bachelor’s degree from an institution of standard collegiate rank recognized by the accrediting agencies in whose jurisdiction the college is located or to be in the final year of an accredited bachelor’s degree program. Students must submit two letters of recommendation and a personal statement to fulfill the admission process.
To learn more about the program, please sign up for a Virtual Info Session here. For more details, please see the SMU Course Catalog.
For a complete graduate cost per semester see Cost of Attendance.
