The Master of Design at Umass Amherst is an advanced postgraduate degree designed for students seeking to deepen their expertise in specialized areas of architecture and related disciplines. You will engage with complex problems and opportunities within contemporary design and scholarship, developing critical research methodologies and innovative practice. This program is ideal for those aiming for interdisciplinary study, whether you are a recent graduate or a mid-career professional looking to advance your knowledge and contribute to the evolving landscape of design and built environments. You will explore advanced topics in building physics, tectonics, and professional practice.
This full-time, on-campus Master of Design degree is structured over two years, encompassing rigorous studio work, theoretical exploration, and culminating in a substantial thesis project. You will work closely with faculty advisors and engage in research forums, developing your unique focus across university departments and the Five Colleges. The curriculum emphasizes a hands-on approach, integrating knowledge of building physics and professional practice into your design process. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for advanced roles in design, research, academia, or specialized fields within the architecture and construction industries.