Round 1 Deadline: January 19 // Round 2 Deadline: March 19. For more information about deadlines and timelines, visit the Apply page. 

The M.A. in Graphic Design provides intensive immersion in the language and practice of graphic design, and it is designed for professionals and graduates from non-design fields, including liberal arts, fine arts, journalism, architecture, communications, and photography. The program also seeks applicants who studied design as undergraduates yet desire a more comprehensive and rigorous education in the visual language of graphic design.  

Application Procedures for the M.A. in Graphic Design

1. Graduate Admission Application Form: completed and submitted online via mica.slideroom.com

2. Resume

Candidates are asked to submit a professional resume of no more than 2 pages detailing:  professional and volunteer experience, education (degree programs and continuing studies), and technical skills

3. Statement of Purpose

Applicants should submit a written statement (no longer than 500 words) that includes:

• How your previous educational and/or professional experiences will translate to graduate study in graphic design
• The topics, audiences and/or forms (media) that inspire your work as a designer
• Personal goals for advanced study in graphic design at MICA

4. Two (2) Letters of Reference

Recommendations are submitted online via mica.slideroom.com.

5. Proof of Degree or Equivalent

Digital transcripts from the last degree-granting institution can be uploaded to SlideRoom. Official transcripts are not required for the initial review process, however, the Graduate Review Committee may request additional or official documentation before decision notification. 

6. Portfolio of Artwork

Applicants should submit a recommended 15-18 digital images for review. Applicants may upload images or video documents. For good image quality and fast upload, please follow the guidelines provided by SlideRoom. JPGs are preferred to PDFs. Submissions should show how you use typography, images, color, composition, etc. to visually communicate. Sketches and process work are acceptable with captions that explain the broader context of the work. 

Applicants should submit their portfolio materials for review with their application via mica.slideroom.com. Specific technical guidelines addressing the submission of digital images, video files, sound files and text files are available in the SlideRoom system.

7. $75 Application Fee

Payable via credit card during the application submission stage online.

8. Additional Requirements for International Applicants

International candidates whose primary language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in both written and spoken English. Additionally, certified translations of all letters of reference, transcripts and school documentation must be provided. For additional information on international applicant requirements, please visit Information for International Graduate Applicants.