The goal of the program is for students to analyze, evaluate, and integrate theoretical frameworks related to humans and their designed environments. The M.F.A. program offers an area of emphasis in multimedia. The emphasis in apparel advances both theoretical and practical knowledge of textile and apparel products. Students focus on design, clothing aesthetics, historic costume, museology, sociopsychological, and sociocultural aspects of apparel and textiles, and textile and apparel product analysis. The housing emphasis advances both theoretical and practical knowledge in the field.
Students are prepared to assist people in their shelter-related problems through research.
Courses emphasize human needs and behavior, analysis of designed environments and technology, policy and community development, and housing for special populations. The emphasis in interior design includes study of the theory, research, and specialized practice components of design as applied to the interior environment. The emphasis in multimedia provides students with experience in designing for the electronic environment. The program integrates theory with practice in the application of emerging technologies and software to digital design solutions. Students complete a capstone design project involving faculty and community mentors.