Semester projects, the written thesis and the thesis presentation are viewed as opportunities to manifest this development. Graduate students are expected to demonstrate a high level of motivation, independence and competence in developing the physical and ideological aspects of their thesis work in addition to the effective presentation skills necessary for success in the professional realm. The study of history and theory are fundamental to the program and are used to complement, support and inform the thesis projects. A series of seminars cover relevant contemporary issues and encourage through dialogue the evaluation of developing perspectives on design. Thesis topics cover a broad range of issues from product and furniture explorations to design for aerospace and medical applications.
Graduate students work independently under the guidance of a faculty advisor and thesis committee.
The department offers assistantships involving various departmental support responsibilities. In addition, the Fred M. Roddy Memorial Scholarship Fund and the Mary Wardwell Memorial Fund are available to support graduate work with awards based on written proposals. An interview with the Graduate Program Coordinator is required and can be arranged by contacting the Industrial Design Office.