Overview

The Design Thinking programme at Radford University offers a comprehensive exploration of creative problem-solving strategies within a flexible, 100% online environment. This Master of Fine Arts is a terminal degree, providing a high-level academic qualification equivalent to a doctorate for those seeking leadership or teaching roles.

Students engage in interdisciplinary teams to address multifaceted issues using diverse design methodologies. The curriculum is designed to augment any previous bachelor's or master's degree, meaning applicants do not require a background in design to enrol. This inclusive approach fosters a rich learning environment where various professional perspectives converge.

The course is delivered asynchronously, allowing working professionals to manage their studies alongside full-time employment.

Why Design Thinking at Radford University?

Radford University provides a unique educational experience often compared to an executive MBA, positioning graduates for high-level leadership across various industries. The programme is delivered by expert designers who specialise in advanced problem-solving strategies. Students benefit from a supportive and inclusive community within the College of Visual and Performing Arts.

As a terminal degree, this concentration specifically prepares students for careers in higher education as well as professional practice. The 100% online format uses the Design to Learn (D2L) platform, ensuring that students can access high-quality lectures and resources from anywhere in the world. The institution emphasises a welcoming environment where diverse voices are encouraged to shape the future of design.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 19820 per year
National fee: USD 19820 per year
Local fee: USD 10132 per year

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

Careers with Design Thinking

Graduates of the Design Thinking programme are well-equipped for a wide range of senior roles in business, industry, and academia. Because the M.F.A. is a terminal degree, many alumni pursue careers as professors in higher education. The skills gained are highly transferable, making graduates attractive to employers in sectors far beyond traditional design fields.

Potential career paths for graduates include:

Team leader
Manager
Director
Executive
Trainer
Specialist
Strategist
Policymaker
Consultant
Professor

Alumni have successfully secured positions at prestigious organisations such as NASA and various international design firms. The programme empowers individuals to lead with empathy and creativity, qualities that are increasingly valued in the global market. Whether working in project management or creative marketing, graduates use their unique skills to drive innovation.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Design Theory & Research

Design Thinking Studio

Special Topics in Design Thinking

Collaboration Studio

Environment Behavior

Design Management

Research Methods

Research Project/Thesis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months
Part-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-12 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-05-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International

More details

For National Students applications are accepted throughout the year.

Language

English

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IELTS

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

Online

Campus Location

Radford, United States

Disciplines

Design Innovation Management View 105 other Masters in Design in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Syllabus of university study - For transfer students, a description of each course or subject studied must be submitted accompanied by a certified English translation. An evaluation of your transfer credit cannot be made without the course descriptions.

For students enrolled at a U.S. college, the Transfer Eligibility Form must be completed.

If you have been out of school for any period of time, other than school breaks, please send a letter that explains if you have been working, attending school, etc., along with the application for admission.

Confidential statement of Financial Support (see required immigration documents).

TOEFL/IELTS - (see English Proficiency).

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

19820 USD / year

≈ 19820 USD / year
Out-of-State

19820 USD / year

≈ 19820 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10132 USD / year

≈ 10132 USD / year

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.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

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

Available Scholarships

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

On this page

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

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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