Curriculum
The model for the full-time, two-year program engages interdisciplinary components that are central to our definition of interaction design.
The curriculum combines studio courses, lectures, and seminars in strategy, design, methods that put ideas into practice both in the classroom and in the field. Students work both individually and collaboratively on the practical application of the concepts and methods that the program advances. Over the course of study, students will produce a wide range of concepts — from low-fidelity sketches to high-fidelity prototypes and applications — with the same degree of rigor.
In the first year, students learn the concepts and methods of interaction design, starting with an understanding of people and the environments that drive their needs, goals and experiences. Course materials consider these social constructs and human experiences as the basis for approaching problems across media. Optional summer internships with top design studios and companies are available between the first and second years for credit toward the thesis project. During the second year, students apply the concepts and methods from the first year of study to shape their thesis projects. It is in the second year that students develop deeper business acumen through coursework and broader courses, such as service design and design management. Instead of a thesis show to conclude the two years, students and faculty will curate a public conference of their own work.
Degree candidates must successfully complete 60 credits, including all required courses, with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0. A residency of two academic years is required. In the final semester, each student is required to complete a thesis project, which must be reviewed and approved by the thesis committee and the department chair in order for the student to be eligible for degree conferral.
First Year
In the first year, students learn the concepts and methods of interaction design, starting with an understanding of people and the environments that drive their needs, goals and experiences.
Course materials consider these social constructs and human experiences as the basis for approaching problems across media.
Learn more...Second Year
During the second year, students apply the concepts and methods to shape their thesis projects.
It is in the second year that students develop deeper business acumen through coursework and direct relationships with New York organizations.
Learn more...Summer Intensive
Whether entering a graduate program or continuing as a professional, participants engaged in this not-for-credit summer program develop a deeper understanding of concepts and methods for designing interactions. Learn more...
