The Master of Fine Arts program in Graphic Design at Iowa State University has a different focus than the undergraduate program. The focus of the program of study is on expanding the knowledge of the student through new problem finding/solving situations. The course of study relies heavily on such areas as methodology, history, research and testing to arrive at fresh new communications.

Goals of the Program:

• To provide educational experiences that supplement and compliment the undergraduate degree of the candidate.

• To explore the theories and concepts of visual communication.

•  To understand the nature and methods of research in the area of visual communication.

• To explore new methods of communication through experiment and technology.

•  To provide new knowledge and information to the practice of visual communication.

• To fully ground the candidate in the foundations of visual communication, which includes such areas as typography, symbology, semiotics, methodology and design systems.
  

• To inspire and compliment the undergraduate curriculum.

•  To impact the field of graphic design practice and education through our graduates.

Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in higher education and professional practice. Both areas are compatible with the goals of the program.