Graduate Thesis Work

Each year, MDes students in the School of Design conduct thesis projects as part of their master’s studies. The thesis project aims to expand and enrich their understanding of design while also forging pathways for further exploration through design practice or doctoral study. It is framed as a thoughtful and rigorous investigation of a well-articulated research question, which students craft and situate in the realm of design for interactions. Throughout the process, students demonstrate their learning and mastery of design processes, methods, and approaches that are fitting to their inquiry. They use the skills and knowledge they acquire to move through exploratory, generative, and evaluative stages of inquiry, and to inform their creative yet appropriate prototyping of concepts. Students’ thesis investigations not only foster their deep understanding of meaningful, contemporary topics but also often provide insights into innovative design approaches that are rooted in the design of services, social innovation, and transition design.