Overview

The M.A. in Design and Innovation at Southern Methodist University is a multidisciplinary degree programme jointly administered by the Lyle School of Engineering and the Meadows School of the Arts. This project-based curriculum is specifically designed to cultivate advanced skills in creative thinking and collaborative problem-solving. Students engage with real-world challenges through a rigorous academic framework that blends technical engineering perspectives with artistic innovation.

The programme is deeply grounded in the methodologies of human-centred design, providing students with the tools to conduct design research and develop effective solution frameworks. Participants explore idea generation and rapid prototyping, ensuring they can translate conceptual theories into tangible outcomes.

Why Design and Innovation at Southern Methodist University?

This programme offers a unique collaborative environment where the Lyle School of Engineering and the Meadows School of the Arts combine their expertise. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates 2D and 3D design tools with innovation processes. The degree is structured to foster cross-disciplinary knowledge, requiring coursework and electives outside of the primary schools to ensure a well-rounded educational experience. This collaborative approach allows students to earn a single degree supported by the resources and facilities of two distinct, prestigious faculties.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 1350 per credit
National fee: USD 1350 per credit
Local fee: USD 1350 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of core design studios and theoretical modules. Modules may include:

Context and Impact of Design
Form and Composition
Human-Centered Design
Design and Innovation Studio
Consumer Insight and Persuasion
Applied Anthropology
Sustainable Urban Development and Design
User Interface Design
Innovation Management

Careers with Design and Innovation

Graduates of this programme are prepared for roles that require high-level design thinking and innovation management. The multidisciplinary nature of the degree allows students to pursue careers in various sectors, including sustainable urban development, product design, and systems engineering. By mastering design research strategies and rapid product realization, alumni are equipped to lead innovation initiatives within diverse professional organisations and creative industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Context and Impact of Design

Form and Composition

Human-Centered Design

Design and Innovation Studio 1

Design for the Visual Environments

Interactive Product Design

Design Research Strategies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-10 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Dallas, United States

Disciplines

Design View 447 other Masters in Design in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Current Resumé or CV

Transcripts from previous institution(s)

A 3.0 minimum GPA is required

Two (2) letters of recommendation that support your efforts to join MADI.

Detailed statement of purpose.

Pay Application fee at time of application submittal of $75

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

20250 USD / year

≈ 20250 USD / year
Out-of-State

20250 USD / year

≈ 20250 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

20250 USD / year

≈ 20250 USD / year

Living costs

Dallas

United States

1140 - 1925 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Design and Innovation.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Dallas

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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