The University of California, Davis offers a dynamic two-year MFA Design program that provides students with the space to explore and experiment while also offering valuable teaching and funding opportunities. The program encourages interdisciplinary, research-driven work and provides students with access to the extensive resources of a top-tier public university.
Students in the MFA Design program at UC Davis engage in individual creative and scholarly practices while taking core courses with their cohort. The program culminates in a public exhibition at the Manetti Shrem Museum, along with a thesis presentation and written document archived by the department. Students also have the opportunity to interact with leading designers and scholars through events like the Alberini Family Lecture Series and the Research in Design Lecture Series.
One of the highlights of the MFA Design program at UC Davis is the availability of Teaching Assistant and Graduate Student Researcher positions that cover tuition and health insurance for eligible applicants. The program also offers state-of-the-art makerspaces, shops, labs, critique and studio spaces, travel and production support, interdisciplinary opportunities across campus, and a dedicated faculty.
UC Davis is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, diversity, and academic excellence, making it an ideal environment for aspiring designers. Graduates of the MFA Design program at UC Davis go on to pursue a variety of careers within and beyond the field of design, with alumni securing positions at universities, museums, technology companies, and research-driven design organizations.
The priority deadline for fellowship consideration for the MFA Design program is January 15, 2026, with a rolling deadline of April 1, 2026 for remaining spaces. Interested applicants can learn more and apply by visiting arts.ucdavis.edu or contacting the Graduate Program Coordinator, Rachelle Agundes, at ragundes@ucdavis.edu. Don’t miss this opportunity to pursue advanced design research at UC Davis and take your creative practice to the next level.
