Master of Arts in Design Program

New Student Admission Requirements

The successful candidate to the Master of Arts in Design program will have established themselves professionally prior to entering the program. Professional experience may include professional internships; work, military or non-profit experience; community service; or other career-related activities.

For admissions consideration to the program, you should complete the following steps:

Complete the online application by applying through our application portal.

Have your official transcripts sent to KCAD for all institutions of higher education previously attended. Transcripts must show the completion of an undergraduate degree in design from a regionally-accredited institution of higher education, with a minimum GPA of 3.00. Official transcripts must be sent directly to KCAD by the institution. 

Submit the supplemental materials detailed below via our SlideRoom submission portal. Please note that a $5.00 submission fee will be charged. 

• Résumé or Curriculum Vitae showing successful professional experience.
• Writing Sample - a 1,000 - 1,200 word sample that demonstrates effective idea development and written communication.
• Contact information for three (3) professional references

A faculty committee convened from the faculty teaching graduate courses acts upon applications for admission.

Transfer Student Admission Requirements are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.