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.

See the FAQs for answers to common questions.

• Overview of Curriculum

  • Year one in the program introduces students to new ways of thinking and making, while also allowing for explorative experiences that augment existing practice and knowledge. Year two places a significant emphasis on each student’s master’s project definition, exploration and production. This is supported with a series of seminars and advanced studio courses. Students are also afforded the opportunity to work with undergraduate students through appointed teaching assistantships, and/or collaborations with faculty on research projects as research assistants.

    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.

• How to Apply

  • Additional application information can be found here: https://www.sjsu.edu/admissions/graduate/want-to-apply/index.php

    Apply through Cal State Apply. Applications will only be accepted for fall terms. Create an account, then search for Master of Design (Special Session). Select this program at San José State and complete the application.
    
    Then submit the following required materials to the Department of Design via the Slideroom portal:
    
    (1) An online portfolio (website) of work with at least 10 projects exhibited. The portfolio should demonstrate your abilities, experience, and knowledge in the field of design. The portfolio can show more than 10 projects, but keep in mind that reviewers have limited time. It is recommended that applicants focus on quality over quantity.
    
    (2) A resumé that documents your professional and academic experience.
    
    (3) An unofficial transcript from each institution from which they have obtained a degree.
    
    (4) Two letters of recommendation. Each letter of recommendation should be written by someone who is able to comment on your qualifications for graduate study.
    
    (5) Describe and summarize your personal goals and intentions by submitting a written response to the three essay prompts below. Your entire response must be no longer than one page.
    Essay 1 - Why are you interested in doing a master of design? Why now? Why at SJSU?
    Essay 2 - How has your background (professional experience and/or previous studies) sparked an interest in a masters degree? And, what are your career goals after graduation?
    Essay 3 - What area(s) of design or specific topic(s) would you be interested in exploring as a basis for your culminating master's project?
    
    Incomplete or late applications or submitted documents will be rejected.