Art and Design
Master’s in Communication Design
Create with purpose and be a leader
OFFERED AS:
Graduate, 4+1 for current undergraduate students
FORMAT:
Online
CREDITS REQUIRED:
30
Take your design expertise to the next level with the Master of Arts in Communication Design at Kutztown University. Our 100% online program is built to fit the schedule of working professionals and equips you to solve complex creative challenges with confidence. Discover your voice and advance your career in graphic design, interactive design, advertising design or illustration at Kutztown University.
Register to attend a virtual information session for this program
Why Choose Kutztown University for a master’s in communication design
Kutztown is the only institution in Pennsylvania to offer a master’s in communication design, making this program a distinctive opportunity for aspiring graphic designers or seasoned professionals looking to become leaders in the field of design. Our communication design masters offers working professionals and ambitious undergraduates two flexible pathways while delivering advanced design skills, leadership preparation, and graduate-level portfolio development.
Traditional MA in Communication Design:
- Open to any graduate with a BFA or similar design degree
- Can be completed in as few as three semesters
- 30-credit, fully online program
Accelerated 4+1 BFA/MA Option:
- Designed for Kutztown Communication Design undergraduates
- Earn both a BFA and an MA in just five years
- Take up to 12 graduate credits during your senior year, which count toward both degrees
- Finish the MA 100% online while entering the workforce
Master’s in Communication Design Highlights
The MA in Communication Design at Kutztown University challenges you to lead, innovate, and create at a professional level. Communication Design is a multidisciplinary field that integrates graphic design, advertising design, interactive design, illustration, and entrepreneurship to effectively communicate ideas across visual and digital platforms. Graduates leave the Master’s in Communication Design program with a competitive edge in the design field and a clear artistic vision through the specialization of their choosing.
Specializations:
- Research-Driven Design
- Design History
- Design Studio
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Application Requirements and Deadlines
Application Requirements (traditional MA)
Applicants should hold a BFA or similar design degree.
A completed application includes:
- Designer statement describing your career and professional goals and how this degree will help you achieve them
- Current resume
- Official transcripts verifying completion of a bachelor’s degree, as well as official transcripts from all universities and colleges attended
- Online portfolio of applicant’s creative work (upload to Slideroom)
- Three references (include contact information)
Deadlines
Fall semester: August 1
Application Requirements (4+1 / BFA + MA Accelerated Program)
Consult with your advisor in the Art & Design department.
Student Learning Outcomes
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Communication Design (MA) (MFA)
- Solve communication challenges by identifying the issues, targeting audience, researching, and/or developing innovative solutions.
- Create and develop visual solutions in response to communication challenges.
- Determine audience objectives based on a spectrum of human factors; test audience response; and/or assess the outcomes.
- Apply the contexts of past, current, and future design.
- Communicate with other creative professionals through research-based, cohesive, and persuasive rhetoric.
Master’s in Communication Design Frequently Asked Questions
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What can I do with an MA in Communication Design?
An MA in Communication Design prepares you for roles that require advanced creative and leadership abilities. Graduates are prepared to work across print, digital, interactive, and emerging media. The following are examples of career paths for this degree:
- Senior Graphic Designer
- Art Director
- Creative Lead
- UX/UI Designer
- Illustrator
- Interactive Designer
- Design Strategist
- Brand Designer
- Advertising Manager
- Marketing Design Manager
- Digital Designer
- Multimedia Designer
- Freelance Designer
- Creative Consultant
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Can I work while earning my MA in Communication Design?
Yes. The MA in Communication Design at Kutztown University is designed for working professionals. The program is delivered 100% online, allowing you to balance coursework with a full-time job, freelance work, or other commitments. Courses emphasize flexible scheduling while still offering meaningful collaboration through live virtual sessions.
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Can I earn certificates while completing the MA in Communication Design?
Yes. Students in the MA in Communication Design can pursue certificates while earning their master’s degree, depending on their chosen coursework and professional goals.
We have graduate certificates in Creative Catalyst, Creative Futures and Creative Refresh.