Master of Arts in Sustainable Design | Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Master of Arts in Sustainable Design

Change Your
Perspective.
Change Our World.

Design for sustainability is a powerful methodology used to spur innovation for a better future. Developed for working creative professionals who are passionate about the intersection of design and sustainability, this groundbreaking masters program will help you lead creativity-driven projects and develop sustainable strategies and solutions across various disciplines and industries. It’s fully online and flexible–asynchronous coursework makes personal time management easier, while occasional synchronous meetings allow for community building with fellow students, faculty, and visiting experts. Small classes offer more focused attention from experienced faculty and collaboration within your cohort. Course activities may include lectures, readings, discussions, research, design projects, exercises, and critiques.

Aerial image of MCAD's rooftop bog

Hear about the student experience

As a master's student in Sustainable Design, you will:

  • Explore current sustainability and design-for-sustainability theories, concepts, and frameworks.
  • Apply innovative design-for-sustainability strategies, tools, and techniques through project-based assignments.
  • Experience both individual and collaborative design projects.
  • Develop skills in systems thinking, critical thinking, research, writing, problem solving, and visual communication.
  • Gain useful knowledge that keeps you and your organization at the forefront of this important field.
  • Complete a thesis project and presentation.
  • Build a web-based portfolio of your coursework.
  • Engage with an international network of sustainability professionals and supportive MCAD alumni.
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Class Highlights

This 30-credit Masters of Arts program emphasizes project work, engaged discussions, and collaboration with fellow students.

Required classes include:

  • Fundamentals of Sustainable Design
  • Systems Thinking
  • Graduate Sustainability Thesis Project

After MCAD

There are many paths to explore with a Master's in Sustainable Design. Current areas of interest include:

  • Product Design
  • Graphic Design
  • Fashion Design
  • Packaging Design
  • Marketer
  • Built-environment Professionals
  • Entrepreneurs
  • Supply Chain Strategies
  • Systems Design
  • Circular Economy
  • Biomimicry
  • Community Planning

"I was really passionate about shifting my career, [this program gave me] the credibility needed within the sustainability space." –Danielle DeKalb '24 MA, Senior Sustainability Manager at Target