Information Design and Data Visualization, MFA

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Information Design and Data Visualization (IDDV) program combines analytical methods and design principles with training in visual communication. Successful graduates learn multiple languages of data, and apply visual cognition and analytics tools to create interactive, data-driven outputs as well as gain expertise in defining and investigating a compelling proposition that reveals new understanding of a subject. This design-centric program prepares graduates to collaborate across a variety of fields and settings, bridging technology, visual communication, and design. The MFA degree is STEM-designated.

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Image Credit: Arushi Singh

The MFA in Information Design and Data Visualization program trains students in harnessing visual languages to support discovery and communicate information across a range of disciplines. Students gain an understanding of translating data and information into visual languages and learn to integrate theoretical, cognitive, visual, and technical aspects of visualizations that engage a broad range of audiences. Our students have the unique advantage of studying at a major research university known for interdisciplinary collaboration located in Boston, a global center for technology, science, and education and a hotspot for information design and data visualization. We seek applicants from diverse backgrounds who are interested in exploring data, visual and auditory design, perception and creative inquiry. Practicing professionals and recent undergraduates in a variety of fields (architecture, graphic design, journalism, communications, business, the humanities, and sciences) who desire a fluency in designing information should apply. 

The program intends to produce professionals skilled in design principles and practices needed to assume leadership roles in an evolving interdisciplinary field. Graduates will be able to collaborate effectively in the dynamic and burgeoning field of information design and data visualization practice and research as well as be prepared to work in design agencies, research institutions, companies, and public institutions. Students will also be well positioned to pursue PhDs and academic careers. 

The MFA degree requires 60 credit hours over two academic years, with an option to engage in Northeastern’s renowned cooperative education (co-op) program. A thesis project, a written thesis, and an accompanying work exhibition in our thesis show are required. The program offers studio courses and seminars in design, data analysis, programming, research methodologies, and historical and cultural literacy plus lectures from visiting artists, designers, and researchers. 

Fall semester 1 is dedicated to foundations, including an introductory studio course in information design and visual communication, a practical course in visual cognition, a seminar on the history of visualization, and an introduction to working with statistics in design. 

Spring semester 2 is dedicated to deepening programming skills in visualization technologies and the exploration of both diverse research topics and methods. In Studio 2 you will create an interactive visualization project; in information design theory, you will obtain theoretical background in design theory and concept mapping; the research methods class will prepare you for the thesis process by introducing you to different research methods; and a practice-led course will dive into the fundamentals of visual technologies. Students with strong prior experience in programming can replace this course with an elective. 

Fall semester 3 is dedicated to developing your thesis in theory and practice, and better understanding human-centered design. All courses in this semester are dedicated to this goal, including the research seminar and the Studio 3 course. An open elective will allow you to further examine a research theme you are interested in. 

During spring semester 4, you will finalize your thesis and work on the thesis exhibition, and one more elective will allow you to add competencies related to your thesis topic. 

The MFA in Information Design and Data Visualization is a STEM-designated degree as of the Fall 2020 start term.

Learning Outcomes

Students will gain the skills to design and implement visual and interactive information displays that clarify complex matters, explain processes, reveal insights, elucidate concepts, and relate stories. The program will guide them how to: 

  • Develop confidence using quantitative and qualitative design research methods to collect small and large data sets. Analyze and synthesize different types of data to inform decisions throughout the visualization process.  
  • Engage in critical analysis of data types from multiple sources, case studies, and scenarios of varying levels of complexity. Demonstrate an understanding of visual cognition principles and core techniques and approaches to effectively visualize and map data.  
  • Combine data sensitivity and analytical methods with design principles to translate ideas and complex issues into graphic forms and visual communications. Create visualizations that reveal meaningful patterns and narratives using a range of techniques and modalities.  
  • Articulate and develop visual literacy on information design and visualization history, methods, and processes. Develop critical language to assess the quality, effectiveness and efficiency, and ethical considerations of data-driven interventions.  
  • Represent data using multiple visual languages and formats. Design engaging interactive, data-driven communication and installations, and build compelling data arguments addressing cognitive and perceptual principles.  
  • Engage in critical analysis of the work of predecessors and peers, as well as, case studies from related design practices and other scholarly disciplines. Initiate, scope, develop, and defend compelling original research and/or design work that reveals new knowledge or understanding of a subject in the form of a graduate design thesis. 

Career Opportunities

  • Design researcher
  • Data Visualization Expert
  • Information Designer
  • Interaction Designer
  • User Experience Designer
  • Visual Communication Expert
  • Visualization Researcher
  • Visual Strategist

Multidisciplinary Skills

  • Data analysis
  • Human factors
  • Design critique
  • Design process
  • Data physicalization
  • Programming
  • User-scenario mapping and observation
  • User testing

Co-op Opportunities

  • The Broad Institute
  • Thomson Reuters
  • Philips Research (HealthTech and Lighting)
  • Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

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Data collection, analysis and interpretation are increasingly important perspectives for making sense of our world. Information design and data visualization are the languages in which this discourse takes place.

Dietmar Offenhuber

Professor and Chair, Art + Design

Resources and Community

Program Coordinator

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