The Master of Fine Arts in Information Design and Data Visualization program uniquely combines design training and analytical methods with distinctive approaches to theoretical, visual, and technical aspects of visual communication. Successful graduates gain expertise in the visual and technological languages of data, applying modes of visual cognition, and using analytics tools to create interactive, data-driven communication and installations.
This design-centric program seeks to prepare graduates to collaborate across a variety of fields and settings, crossing the bridge between technology, public communication, and systems design. Successful graduates are prepared to be professional information designers and data visualization experts in design agencies, research institutions, industry, and public institutions, able to lead and collaborate in this dynamic and burgeoning interdisciplinary field of practice and research. Students also are well positioned to pursue PhDs and academic careers. Students have the unique advantage of studying at a major research university known for interdisciplinary collaboration located in Boston—a global center for technology, science, education, and culture—offering diverse opportunities for practice and research in information design and data visualization.
The MFA-IDDV curriculum includes studio courses and seminars in graphic, information, and interaction design; creative inquiry; research methodologies; data literacies; and visualization technologies. It integrates faculty instruction with visiting artists and researchers. The degree requires 60 credit hours over two academic years, with an option to engage in Northeastern’s renowned co-op program. A thesis project, a written thesis, and an accompanying work exhibition in the thesis show are required.
Learn more about IDDV projects, students, and faculty at Information Design and Data Visualization.
Complete all courses and requirements listed below unless otherwise indicated.
Core Requirements
Electives
Course List Code | Title | Hours |
| 8 |
| Topics in Design | |
| Information Design Studio 1: Principles | |
| Research Methods for Design | |
| Visual Communication for Information Design | |
| Information Visualization Principles and Practices | |
| Information Design Critique Seminar | |
| Visualization Technologies 2: Advanced Practices | |
| Notational Systems for Experience | |
| Prototyping for Experience Design | |
| Design for Dignity | |
| Design for Behavior and Experience | |
| Information Design Mapping Strategies | |
| Graphic Design Synthesis | |
| Developing Extended Realities (XR) | |
| Designing Extended Realities (XR) | |
| Telling Your Story with Data | |
Program Credit/GPA Requirements
60 total semester hours required
Minimum 3.000 GPA required