Program Overview

Master of Design + MPA Program

The Master of Design + Master of Public Administration (MDes + MPA) dual-degree program prepares students to address dynamic and complex civic and social challenges effectively. This unique program—the first of its kind in the nation—is ideal for professionals who aspire to lead innovation initiatives within the civic sector. Students pursue two graduate degrees simultaneously, an MDes through ID and a MPA through the Stuart School of Business.

Program Structure

• The MDes + MPA is a two-year, 69-credit-hour degree program with customizable study.
• 45 design credits are completed through ID and 24 business credits are completed through Stuart School of Business.
• The MDes curriculum is organized across three stages of study: Entry, Core, and Concentration.

Entry Modules

These modules will help students fill any gaps they may have in their education or practice and will orient them to ID’s specific philosophy and culture. All students are advised which courses in these modules are most appropriate for their situation and goals.

Core Modules

These modules develop students' critical competency for nearly any design practice. Core courses help students deeply understand complex challenges, creatively explore options, and develop impactful and resilient solutions. Students are expected to establish competence and demonstrate mastery in each Core module by the end of the program.

Concentration Modules

Concentration modules focus on application skills and are oriented toward specific design roles such as Design Research and Insight, Product-Service Delivery, and Innovation Strategy. Students are encouraged to choose 1–3 concentration modules but can take courses within any of the concentrations.

Course Types

ID courses come in four structural types: Bootcamps, Seminars, Workshops, and Studiolabs. These course types describe how the course is conducted, and the commitment needed to maximize learning. Full-time students take a balance of each course type during a semester.

Student Work

The program showcases student work through various projects, including:

• Creating A New Food Cycle
• Destigmatizing Dementia with Design
• Greening the Electricity System

Alumni

ID alumni make up a strong network—a uniquely skilled set of more than 2,400 people across 32+ countries who deal with difficult issues and navigate them with clarity, purpose, and discipline.

Career Support

With a focus on business and social innovation, and a strong alumni network, the program connects students with opportunities that align with what top organizations seek in talent.

Timing

The program offers various sequences:

• None
• Foundation
• English
• Year 1 and Year 2 sequences with options for internships and different course combinations.

Estimated Costs

• Tuition rate: $28,082 (per semester)
• Estimated costs and supplies: $850 (per semester)
• Estimated living expenses (room & board): $8,250 (per semester)
• Estimated health insurance: $2,070 (per year)

STEM Qualification

The MDes + MPA degree qualifies as a STEM degree, allowing international students to apply for a 24-month extension to the typical 12-month optional practical training (OPT) period.

Deadlines

• Spring 2026 Admission: October 24, 2025 (final admission)
• Fall 2026 Admission: December 1, 2025 (priority admission), February 6, 2026 (final general admission)