Master of Arts in Graphic Design
Please note that the information below is specific to applicants to the Master of Arts in Graphic Design program.
Application Overview
- Applicants must complete all admission requirements as outlined by Graduate Admission.
- Applicants must hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution (or international equivalent).
- Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75
- No standardized test is required as part of the admission process
- International Students must also take the TOEFL or IELTS exam and provide a statement of financial resources. All international students must be enrolled full-time.
- Applicants who have an undergraduate baccalaureate degree in any field may apply to a graduate program only; they are not eligible to apply to the BFA programs.
- Applicants must submit a portfolio or complete equivalent coursework through Continuing Education.
- Personal interviews are recommended and are available by appointment only.
Portfolio Requirements
- Applicants to the Master of Arts in Graphic Design must submit a portfolio consisting of 20 high resolution PDF files of recent, original artwork demonstrating both technical competency and creative ability.
- Applicants with prior studio background, who are seeking exemption from Foundation or Foundational Graphic Design coursework, should submit a significantly more extensive portfolio.
- All portfolios are reviewed by the graduate faculty to determine subject matter competency.
Please note that original artwork should not be mailed. The University isn’t responsible for loss or damage to portfolio materials.
If you don't have a portfolio
- Academically qualified applicants without a substantial background in the visual arts may be required to complete Foundation-level courses (Foundation Drawing I, 2-Dimensional Design) as Continuing Education students before applying to the Master of Arts program in Graphic Design.
- If an applicant is subsequently accepted to the program, credits earned as a Continuing Education student may be used to waive preparatory requirements. Graduate faculty members review all portfolio materials to determine subject matter competency. All other admission requirements, including an interview with the Graduate Program Director, apply.
- Gateway Program for Graduate Design Studies is a 10-week intensive program designed to prepare those without visual arts background for entering the Masters programs. This program is offered through the School of Art & Design’s Continuing Education Division.
- For more information about pursuing Continuing Education studies prior to applying for the Master’s Degree in Graphic Design, please contact the Continuing Education Division at 617-994-4235 or 617-994-4233.
Application Deadlines
| Fall Admission | Application Deadline: July 15 |
| Spring Admission | Application Deadline: November 1 |
Where to go from here
| Schedule a campus visit or register to attend an information session. | |
| Apply to Suffolk! |
Contact Information
| Office of Graduate Admission | |
| Suffolk University 8 Ashburton Place Boston, MA 02108 |
617-573-8302 |