The MFA program trains students in harnessing visual languages to support discovery and communicate information across a range of disciplines. 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.
Graduates will be professional information designers and data visualization experts able to collaborate effectively in this dynamic and burgeoning field of practice and research. They will be prepared to work in design agencies, research institutions, companies, and public institutions. The program intends to produce professionals skilled in design principles and practices needed to assume leadership roles in an evolving interdisciplinary field. Students will also be well positioned to pursue PhDs and academic careers.
The degree requires 60 credit hours over two academic years, with an option to engage in Northeastern鈥檚 renowned cooperative education (co-op) program. A thesis project, a written thesis, and an accompanying work exhibition in our thesis show are required. The program offers studio courses and seminars in design, data analysis, programming, research methodologies and historical and cultural literacy plus lectures from visiting artists and researchers.
The MFA in Information Design and Data Visualization is a STEM-designated degree as of the Fall 2020 start term.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
September 2025
Northeastern University
360 Huntington Avenue,
BOSTON,
Massachusetts,
02115, United States
Enrolling graduate and professional program students are required to submit to Northeastern University (NU) their official transcripts including evidence of the completion of the bachelor鈥檚 degree and the date of degree conferral within 30 days from the start of their first academic term.
Minimum Score Required: TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language: 79 and a writing portion of 20; Academic IELTS: 6.5 no band lower than 6; Pearson: 53; Duolingo English Test: (ON 160-POINT SCALE): 105; (ON 100-POINT SCALE): 48.
Deadline: Fall Entry Term: May 1.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
Students gain more than a degree at Northeastern University. They also graduate with real-world experience that fuels lifelong success.
