Master of Fine Arts in Information Design and Data Visualization

The Information Design and Data Visualization program uniquely combines analytical methods with distinctive training in 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 prepares graduates to collaborate across a variety of fields and settings, crossing the bridge between technology, public communication and systems design.
The College of Arts, Media and Design offers three Information Design and Data Visualization graduate degree options to meet the unique goals and aspirations of individual learners: a Master of Fine Arts (MFA), a Master of Science (MS), and a Graduate Certificate. Students in the Information Design and Data Visualization program gain an understanding of translating data and information into visual languages and learn to integrate theoretical, visual, and technical aspects of visualizations that engage a broad range of audiences. Our 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, and education and a hotspot for information design and data visualization. We seek applicants from diverse backgrounds who are interested in exploring data, visual and auditory design, perception and creative inquiry. Practicing professionals and recent undergraduates in a variety of fields (architecture, graphic design, journalism, communications, business, the humanities, and sciences) who desire a fluency in information design should apply
Learning Outcomes
Students will gain the skills to design and implement visual and interactive information displays that clarify complex matters, explain processes, reveal insights, elucidate concepts and relate stories. The program will guide them how to:
Articulate knowledge of the design principles, theories, and technologies of information design and data visualization.
Represent information in visual languages that take advantage of the properties of human perception and cognitive capabilities, accurately represent the underlying data structures, and support the desired tasks to be accomplished by the user.

In addition to the personal statement, applicants to the MFA must submit a separate statement explaining their motivation for pursuing an MFA in Information Design and Data Visualization. In the MFA statement, provide insights about your work to date and how it could inform your graduate studies and/or thesis work. This statement can include a discussion of particular areas and projects that you are interested in researching further. The MFA statement should be 300 500 words. Additionally, applicants to the MFA in Information Design and Data Visualization must submit a portfolio via SlideRoom, an online portfolio submission service. The submission fee is $12.00 (USD). Technical guidelines are available at SlideRoom.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA): Minimum of 5 documents required
The application portfolio should consist of recent original work that demonstrates design or other relevant project-based experience. Please note that as part of the five required documents you can include multiple aspects of the same project. Portfolios typically include:
Visualization work (infographics, maps, diagrams or charts) Screenshots from websites or interactive applications
Data analyses Coding or software development documentation Design projects (idea sketches, prototypes or results)
Professional projects
Creative work from other disciplines (Art, Graphic Design, Architecture, Journalism, Photography or Film)
Research projects (analytical: quantitative or qualitative, ethnographic)
State of the art or position papers

To be considered for admission to a CAMD graduate program, international applicants must show proof of English proficiency. This requirement can be met by submitting satisfactory results on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test. Please note that scores are valid for two years and scores must be valid at the time your application is received. Official score reports must be sent to Northeastern University directly from the testing agency. We expect a minimum score of 100 on the Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT). You should plan to take the exam well in advance of our application deadline as it may take up to six weeks for your official score report to be sent to CAMD. We expect a minimum overall band score of 7.0 on the IELTS.