Master of Arts in Strategic Design

The Master of Arts in Strategic Design is an interdisciplinary program that combines the expertise of Furman’s Art, Communication Studies, English, and Business departments, blending creativity and strategy in a way that transforms students into human-centered design thinkers. By engaging in one-on-one portfolio building and real-world client collaborations, MASD graduates learn to craft solutions that are thoughtfully designed and prioritize the needs of the people they serve. Students master skills beyond design such as storytelling, cultural sensitivity, and user empathy, preparing them to enter the design industry as innovative problem-solvers who create meaningful, impactful solutions for diverse audiences and real-world challenges.

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The Art of Problem-Solving

The Master of Arts in Strategic Design offers students an advanced blend of design, business, and communication theory. This design program is a fully immersive environment that mirrors the rhythms and expectations of a professional environment. MASD is a platform where students can refine their design, marketing, art direction, copywriting skills and thrive among the best in the design industry. Graduates enter the job market launching their creative careers with a portfolio of professional experience and a network of robust industry contacts.

Liberal Arts Qualities or Skills:

Flexibility

Creativity

Strategic Thinking

Interdisciplinary

Human centric design thinking

Ambition

Innovation

Quick ideation

Leveraging AI in the Brand Strategy Realm, Creative Direction, Art Direction

Who Furman’s MASD is looking for:

  • Leaders with a global vision and personal drive that reaches beyond the classroom
  • Creative thinkers who identify opportunities and strategically solve problems
  • Impactful communicators who wish to connect with others across the design and marketing fields
Student present in the Furman Strategic Design Program.

  • 1-on-1
    Portfolio Building
  • 94%
    Graduates Employed within Six Months of Graduation
  • 100s+
    Career opportunities available post-graduation

Collaborate & Connect with Industry Pros

It’s built into our DNA to find diverse and collaborative learners. We excel at creating unique opportunities and experiences for students through well-versed mentors, industry tours, 1-on-1 portfolio development and networking across the creative industry. Our roster includes Furman University’s prestigious research faculty and industry professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and diverse experience.

Upcoming MASD Events

  • #7
    Most innovative schools
  • 25+
    Undergraduate degree majors represented

Find Your Creative Career

We collaborate with notable brands representing a large spectrum of industries. During their final semester, students develop their portfolios by engaging in a practicum or internship in their field of interest, developing a university based project, or by constructing a thesis regarding relevant real-world issues.

Many students receive job offers before graduation!

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Begin Your Application

MASD has rolling admissions, so there’s no wrong time to apply. Start your journey this Spring, Summer or Fall. Don’t miss your chance to enroll in our next cohort!

Apply Now

Schedule a Visit

Want to visit a class?  Speak to a current student? Tour Furman’s awarded campus? Connect with us to explore what the M.A. in Strategic Design can offer you!

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A Design Speaker Series

Furman University Master of Arts in Strategic Design presents: DESIGNSPEAK. The series will feature industry professionals in the design world speaking on larger overarching topics that potentially affect the industry as a whole. Local and national professionals with a variety of backgrounds will highlight topics like resiliency, sustainability, and entrepreneurship in design.

Join Us!

Meet our Faculty

Marta Lanier

Marta Lanier

Director of the Master of Arts in Strategic Design
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Sarah Gebbie

Program Coordinator
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Jay Bopp

Adjunct Professor, Master of Arts in Strategic Design
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Brandon Inabinet

Professor, Communication Studies; Faculty Council Chair
Emily Price, Adjunct Professor of Strategic Design

Emily Price

Lecturer
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Chris Rawls

Adjunct Professor, Master of Arts in Strategic Design
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Anna Riethman

Adjunct Professor, Master of Arts in Strategic Design
Mary Sturgill

Mary Sturgill

Media Specialist/Instructor
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Bill Swanston

Adjunct Professor, Master of Arts in Strategic Design
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Tiffany Williams

Lecturer

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