Master of Design (MDes) with a Specialization in Experience Design
About the Experience Design Specialization at SJSU
The experience design specialization is a two-year program built on multidisciplinary collaboration, design practice, new technology, research, and scholarship that seeks to push the boundaries of design for experience. Our aim is to develop new generations of creative leadership that can design for emerging complex challenges in the field of design and the world at large.
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All courses are offered in Silicon Valley near tech companies, world-class museums, start-up companies and groundbreaking design firms. With easy access to San Francisco, Oakland and the surrounding Bay Area students can complete their degree while also pursuing internships and/or continuing their careers.
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on the application process
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See the FAQs for answers to common questions.
Curriculum & Student Projects
Year one in the program introduces students to new ways of thinking and making, while also allowing for explorative experiences that build on existing practice and knowledge. Year two places a strong emphasis on each student’s master’s project—defining, exploring, and producing a self-directed design inquiry. This work is supported by a series of seminars and advanced studio courses.
Students also have opportunities to collaborate with undergraduate classes through teaching assistantships or engage in faculty-led research as research assistants.
To see how these experiences come together, visit our Student Thesis Projects showcase to explore examples of graduate work and discover the breadth of creative and critical inquiry within the program.
For course listings and descriptions, please see the current SJSU catalog.
Applications
The annual admission to the Master of Design program is based on a competitive selection process. Ideal candidates should have a demonstrable academic and/or professional background in graphic design, industrial design, product design, user-experience design, user-interface design, interaction design, data visualization, information design, and/or other related disciplines.
Eligibility Requirements
A undergraduate bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency. A GRE is not required. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission into the program.
Email grad.admissions@sjsu.edu for eligibility information and questions.
