Master of Arts in Sustainable Design | Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Master of Arts in Sustainable Design

Change Your
Perspective.
Change Our World.

Ideal for working adults who are passionate about sustainability, understand the power of design, and want to affect change, MCAD's Master of Arts in Sustainable Design is a unique, fully online program that engages a world-class community to creatively lead sustainable solutions across disciplines and industries. Asynchronous coursework offers flexibility while occasional synchronous meetings allow for community-building with fellow students, faculty, and visiting experts. Course activities may include readings, videos, discussions, projects, team work, and critiques. Small class sizes encourage collaboration and personal attention from experienced faculty. 

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Aerial image of MCAD's rooftop bog

Hear about the student experience

As a master's student in Sustainable Design, you will:

  • Explore current sustainability theories and frameworks. 
  • Practice innovative sustainable design tools and techniques through project-based assignments.
  • Experience collaborative design and creative leadership.
  • Develop systems thinking, critical thinking, research, writing, problem-solving, and visual-presentation skills.
  • Build a web-based portfolio of your coursework.
  • Complete a cutting-edge, sustainability-focused thesis project and presentation.
  • Gain actionable knowledge that keeps you and your organization at the forefront of this increasingly important field.
  • Engage with an international network of sustainability professionals and supportive MCAD alumni.
Tell me more about Sustainable Design at MCAD
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Class Highlights

This 30-credit Masters of Arts program emphasizes project work, engaged discussions, and collaboration with fellow students.

Required classes include: 

  • Fundamentals of Sustainable Design
  • Systems Thinking
  • Graduate Sustainability Thesis Project

After MCAD

There are many paths to explore with a Master's in Sustainable Design.

Potential careers include:

  • Eco Fashion Designer
  • Sustainable Packaging Designer
  • Green Business Marketer

"Sustainability is about reimagining how our human systems work, and making people more connected and healthier." –Dawn Keene ’13, owner of Studio Change