阿尔伯塔大学

The Master of Design (MDes) program offers two specializations: industrial design + visual communication design.

The MDes program at Alberta focuses on research for the public good in the areas of Industrial Design (ID) and Visual Communication Design (VCD). Faculty members are engaged in research and practice, using interdisciplinary approaches and participatory methods. Industrial Design is concerned with the interface between the user and the built environment and the physical, cognitive and emotional issues involved. Visual Communication Design focuses on information design and communication, in print and interactive new media, and includes design for needs relating to education, culture, health and safety. Graduate students have presented their work at local, national and international conferences and exhibitions.

Thesis development may take between one and three years, depending on the complexity of the project and the ability of the student. The thesis is a project that allows the student to learn advanced working methods and to make an original contribution to their chosen field of design. Normally, the thesis includes both a design product and a written document.

Past research topics:

• Hybrid Electric Vehicles
• Multi-Literacy for Children
• A Digital Learning Resource to Enrich Undergraduate Students’ Appreciation of Aboriginal Canadian Literature
• Rhinoplasty: A Hands-On Training Module
• Design for Sustainability
• Lessons from a Couch Fort
• Giving Youth Voice: Co-designing Community-led Health Messages for Youth

Course work must be completed before commencement of the thesis. First term studio courses may not be repeated; however, second term studio courses may be repeated with consent of the Department. After all other program requirements have been satisfactorily met, candidates must make a major presentation of their creative work. Such a presentation will be considered the equivalent of a master’s thesis.

There is no language requirement for the degree.

The minimum period of residence is two four-month terms of full-time attendance at the University of Alberta.

Candidates will normally require two academic years to complete their program of studies.