Nov 26, 2024  
2017-2018 Graduate Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Design and Innovation, M.A.


Research Professor Katherine Canales, Program Director

Research Professor: Katherine Canales
Clinical Professor: Gray Garmon
Adjunct Lecturer: Justin Childress, Suzanne Larkin

This hands-on, project-based program focuses on skills and processes of creative thinking and problem-solving in a multidisciplinary setting. The degree is grounded in the methodologies of human-centered design, including design research, solution frameworks, idea generation and rapid prototyping. The program involves course-work in theories of design, tools for innovation and project-based design studios focused on real-world design challenges. Additionally, the degree requires coursework in electives outside of Lyle to build cross-disciplinary experiences and knowledge. This degree is for students seeking to become more versatile thinkers regardless of background. The skills and modes of thought acquired through this degree are particularly applicable to future careers in design, engineering, advertising, education, business and the social sciences.

Admission Requirements

In addition to meeting the Lyle School of Engineering degree requirements, candidates are required to hold a bachelor’s degree from an institution of standard collegiate rank recognized by the accrediting agencies in whose jurisdiction the college is located or to be in the final year of an accredited bachelor’s degree program.

Degree Requirements


In addition to meeting the Lyle School of Engineering degree requirements, candidates must meet the following requirement: satisfactory completion of the following courses with an overall graduate GPA of at least 3.000. Only a few of the advanced elective courses have prerequisites, ensuring that students are able to fulfill program requirements on a reasonable timeline. Students wishing to choose any of the electives below will need to have met all course requirements and prerequisites. Enrollment in free electives will be at the discretion of the academic department where the course is offered and the course instructor. Free electives are designed to allow students to gain specialized skills in the field that they may go on to practice or to pursue a personal passion or interest that will complement their future work.

Total: 9 Credit Hours


Total: 10 Credit Hours


Total: 6-7 Credit Hours


Free Elective Courses


  • Two courses from graduate programs on campus, approved by the student’s adviser.

Total: 6 Credit Hours


Total: 31-32 Credit Hours