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# Lead, Create, & Innovate: University of Michigan’s Master of Design Program
- URL: https://hyperallergic.com/lead-create-innovate-university-of-michigans-master-of-design-program/
- Published: 2026-09-22T15:00:02.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-22T15:00:01.000Z
- Description: The Stamps MDes program builds curious designers interested in interdisciplinary problem-solving, community engagement, and critical making.
- Author: University of Michigan, Stamps School of Art & Design
- Tags: Announcement, Master of Design, Art Education Announcements, University of Michigan Stamps School of Art and Design, Sponsored

The University of Michigan’s Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design is now accepting [Master of Design program applications](https://bit.ly/4yHM15H?ref=hyperallergic.com) for Fall 2027\. 

The newly redesigned and relaunched [Stamps MDes program](https://bit.ly/4AiHAQg?ref=hyperallergic.com), led by Program Director [Sara Dean](https://bit.ly/4hvfOIX?ref=hyperallergic.com), is a place for future-focused, rigorous experimentation. Students learn from the broad range of practices, deep examination of craft, and cutting-edge fabrication facilities at Stamps while working across disciplines and media, from print and physical prototypes to digital experiences and immersive environments. 

The [Stamps faculty](https://bit.ly/4hshTFD?ref=hyperallergic.com) include 40+ leading scholars, designers, artists, and makers who teach, encourage, and challenge students every step of the way. Throughout the two-year program, students also learn from scholars across the wider University of Michigan, as well as nationally and internationally recognized [visiting artists, designers, and critics](https://bit.ly/4yaHmsY?ref=hyperallergic.com) who provide insightful perspectives and one-on-one feedback.

The program culminates in a year-long thesis project. Through this individualized body of work, graduates define the values, curiosities, and formats that drive their work; develop new ways of working; and prepare for opportunities in a variety of fields and contexts.

Students also receive financial support and benefit from the boundless studios, resources, and collaborative opportunities that can only be found at the University of Michigan, *TIME’s* top public research university. The STEM-designated MDes program builds strategic leaders, visionary designers, researchers, and educators who can address the complex challenges and societal needs of today and the forward-looking interventions needed for tomorrow. 

> "Design is a tool to interrogate and impact the world's challenges and help to imagine and build a more equitable and resilient future. Through research investigations, material experiments, and inter-disciplinary formats, our students learn a range of tactics to make considered, impactful, and thought-provoking design work. Whether you are interested in a career in industry, social engagement, academia, or entrepreneurship, this program will help you develop a practice and perspective to guide your path."  
> — *Sara Dean, MDes Program Director and Associate Professor*

Visit the Stamps website to learn about our unique MDes program, and find out more at upcoming [events](https://bit.ly/4yyMyqC?ref=hyperallergic.com), including Graduate National Portfolio Days and virtual open houses on October 13 and November 16, 2026.

For more information, visit [stamps.umich.edu/mdes](https://bit.ly/4AiHAQg?ref=hyperallergic.com).

[**Apply by January 10, 2027**](https://stamps.umich.edu/graduate-admissions/apply-mdes?utm%5Fsource=hyperallergic&utm%5Fmedium=sponsored-post&utm%5Fcampaign=mdes-2026&utm%5Fcontent=apply)