Graphic and Experience Design

The Master of Graphic & Experience Design (MGXD) moves students toward a deeper knowledge of graphic and experience design through purposeful, individually driven design practice. Inquiry into contemporary and emergent design issues prepares graduates for leadership positions in user experience and user interface design (UX/UI), with expertise in research, data visualization, digital typography, and artificial intelligence. Successful completion of the MGXD results in a terminal degree, equivalent to the MFA, and qualifies graduates to teach at the university level or to pursue a PhD in Design.

The NC State Master of Graphic & Experience Design (MGXD) is consistently recognized as one of the top NASAD accredited graduate graphic and experience design programs in the country and one of the few with STEM Classification (CIP). The faculty is nationally and internationally recognized. Alumni are designers in enterprise-level software companies and leading design consultancies (such as IBM, RedHat, Lenovo, Adobe, IDEO, Fjord), as well as, faculty members in colleges and universities (including University of Washington, Pratt Institute, Carnegie Mellon, University of Michigan).

MGXD II: Master of Graphic & Experience Design Program (Two Year)

Have you earned a BFA or equivalent in graphic design and worked in visual communication, interaction design, or other related design fields? Or are you a practicing designer who wants to pursue a full-time faculty position? We created the MGXD program for you.

Through graduate studios, seminars, and workshops, students delve into histories, design-related theories, and human-centered research methods relevant to current and emerging practices. They investigate questions individually and collaboratively around design and technology through research, making (visualizations, visual diagrams, and functioning prototypes), discussion, and critique. Students develop a body of UX/UI work while routinely participating in collaborative projects with industry leaders such as IBM, Redhat, and SAS, and research leaders such as the NC State Laboratory for Analytic Sciences or the Institute of Emerging Issues. This work positions students to identify a design investigation in the final year. For this culminating project, students comprehensively research an area of interest, create studies and prototypes, document findings, and present the project in a public forum.

MGXD III: Master of Graphic & Experience Design Program (Three Year)

Do you have a degree in another field but a deep interest and some experience in design? Or have you earned a BA with a graphic design concentration and wish to advance further? We created the MGXD III program for you.

MGXD III students enroll in two semesters of specialized coursework prior to matriculating into the MGXD II program. In other words, students complete 2 semesters as MGXD III students and then 4 semesters in the core MGXD program to complete their degree. Through a combination of studio-based courses, seminars, and workshops, the curriculum introduces students to fundamental design principles. Additional courses focus on subjects such as emerging technologies, interaction, typography, and design theory/history.