Lead, Create, & Innovate: University of Michigan’s Master of Design Program
The Stamps MDes program builds curious designers interested in interdisciplinary problem-solving, community engagement, and critical making.
The University of Michigan’s Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design is now accepting Master of Design program applications for Fall 2027.
The newly redesigned and relaunched Stamps MDes program, led by Program Director Sara Dean, 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 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 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, including Graduate National Portfolio Days and virtual open houses on October 13 and November 16, 2026.
For more information, visit stamps.umich.edu/mdes.
