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The core curriculum for the graduate program is comprised of seminars, studios and independent study. In addition, students work closely with faculty to identify other classes (as well as special learning opportunities/projects) that correspond to their interests and objectives for graduate study.
Design Seminars address critical issues in design through research, reading, writing, presentation and discussion. All seminars are cross-disciplinary, with students from Interaction Design, Industrial Design, and Visual Communication Design backgrounds contributing to a lively, collaborative atmosphere. Seminars meet twice a week during the first year of study.
Design Studios provide a means for exploring a wide range of ideas and influences in the context of applied design. Studios meet twice a week during the first year of study. Additional studio requirements can be fulfilled through participation in ID, VCD and IxD undergraduate classes, or through independent study with design faculty.
Throughout the academic year, a number of unique learning opportunities are presented. These special projects may be suitable for an individual or a larger group of students, usually under the direction of design faculty, often with corporate sponsorship. Graduate students are encouraged to pursue these opportunities when in alignment with their personal areas of interest.
Year One
Autumn Quarter: 15–18 Credits
DES 581 Graduate Seminar in Design (5)
DES 582 Design Studio (5)
Elective (5)
Winter Quarter: 15–18 Credits
DES 581 Graduate Seminar in Design (5)
DES 582 Graduate Studio in Design (5)
Elective (5)
Spring Quarter: 15 Credits
DES 581 Graduate Seminar in Design (5)
DES 582 Design Studio (5)
Elective (5)
Year Two
Autumn Quarter: 10 Credits
DES 700 Thesis Prep (5)
Electives (10)
Winter Quarter: 15 Credits
DES 700 Masters Thesis (10)
Spring Quarter: 10 Credits
DES 700 Masters Thesis (10)
Graduate School Minimum Requirements
Detailed information from the UW Graduate School
Satisfactory Progress Requirements
Admission to the Graduate School allows students to continue graduate study and research at the University of Washington only as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and progress toward completion of their graduate degree program - Memo 16: Academic Performance and Progress.