MFA/CD Admissions

Why MFA/CD at Texas State?

Over 60 credits, students cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and making through a well-rounded, forward-looking curriculum. The MFA in Communication Design brings together interdisciplinary approaches to the discipline across national and global perspectives to form a graduate-level education befitting a terminal degree.

• Terminal Degree — Master of Fine Arts
• Low-residency — most course content is delivered online with an on-campus multi-day residency at the end of each semester
• Affordability, including out-of-state tuition
• Graduate Assistantships available
• Diverse and active faculty
• Dynamic programming with visiting designers

Deadlines

Fall Semester
February 1 (Priority)
July 31 
Spring Semester
October 1 (International)
October 31 (U.S. Citizens)

Admission

Admission to the Master of Fine Arts degree in Communication Design is selective and designed to identify applicants with the ability and commitment to successfully complete the program. Applicants are chosen through close examination of each component of the application packet, with special emphasis placed on the portfolio of communication design work.

Application Materials Guidelines

Past academic achievement 
An undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.75 (4.0) in the last 60 credit hours of coursework leading to the baccalaureate degree. Any graduate-level courses taken are included in GPA calculation. Please go to the Graduate College website for information regarding transcript requirements.

Written communication
The written component is an academic and professional statement of purpose (500–800 words) addressing the following:

• What are your current design goals and specific reasons for seeking an MFA in Communication Design at Texas State University?

• What experiences led you to this point, and how might they have shaped your current visual work?

• What do you hope to achieve during your MFA studies?

• What topics in design are you most interested in studying?

• In addition to building a strong MFA community of learners, independent study is an essential feature of the low-residency model. We must assess your ability and potential to manage and define your educational direction. What other independent educational experiences have you pursued in design and beyond


Digital Portfolio (professional and/or student) showcasing 12–20 work samples in communication design.

• The portfolio may be uploaded as a PDF or shared as a web link. Read additional information about evaluation criteria.

Resume/CV

Three letters of recommendation from persons capable of evaluating your academic and professional ability.

Application Checklist

• Graduate College application
• Application fee
• Transcript from each secondary institution
• Resume/CV
• Letters of recommendation 
• Written statement 
• Digital portfolio

International Students

International applicants must visit the Graduate College website for additional required information.