Information Design and Data Visualization, MS (Boston)

The Master of Science in Information Design and Data Visualization is a two-semester research- and analysis-oriented program focusing on visual interfaces to communicate and explore digital information. Graduates may become professional information designers and data visualization experts able to collaborate effectively in this dynamic and burgeoning field of practice and research, prepared to work in data-driven areas including design, technology, business, health, education, and public institutions. The curriculum is designed to train students in design principles, critical inquiry, and the analytical and creative practices needed to assume leadership roles in an evolving interdisciplinary field. Coursework focuses on the translation of data and information into visual languages and the integration of theoretical, cognitive, and technical aspects of visualizations that engage a broad range of audiences. From this master’s program, students have multiple options to expand their advanced studies along diverse avenues, including adding graduate certificates in related topics such as user analytics, data analytics, experience design, and cultural entrepreneurship; engaging in co-op opportunities; and applying to proceed academically into a terminal Master of Fine Arts degree.

To learn more visit the Information Design and Data Visualization page. 

Complete all courses and requirements listed below unless otherwise indicated.

Core Requirements

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
ARTG 5100	Information Design Studio 1: Principles	4
ARTG 5120	Research Methods for Design	4
ARTG 5310	Visual Cognition	4
ARTG 5320	Statistics for Design	4
ARTG 5330	Visualization Technologies 1: Fundamentals	4
ARTG 6100	Information Design Studio 2: Dynamic Mapping and Models	4
ARTG 6110	Information Design Theory and Critical Thinking	4

Elective

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
Complete one of the following:		4
ARTG 5000	Topics in Design
ARTG 5110	Information Design History
ARTG 5150 and ARTG 5151	Information Visualization Principles and Practices and Information Design Critique Seminar
ARTG 5120	Research Methods for Design
ARTG 5130	Visual Communication for Information Design
ARTG 5430	Visualization Technologies 2: Advanced Practices
ARTG 5710	Design for Dignity
ARTG 6310	Design for Behavior and Experience
ARTG 6330	Information Design Mapping Strategies
ARTG 6555	Graphic Design Synthesis
ARTG 7890	Thesis

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Program Credit/GPA Requirements

32 total semester hours required
Minimum 3.000 GPA required

 Sample Plans of Study

Two Semesters, No Co-op¹

Year 1
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours
ARTG 5100	4	ARTG 5120	4
ARTG 5310	4	ARTG 5330	4
ARTG 5320	4	ARTG 6100	4
Elective	4	ARTG 6110	4
	16		16
Total Hours: 32

¹

Summer co-op is optional in consultation with the program coordinator.

Four Semesters, No Co-op²

Year 1
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours
ARTG 5100	4	ARTG 5310	4
ARTG 5320	4	ARTG 6100	4
	8		8
Year 2
Fall	Hours	Spring	Hours
ARTG 5330	4	ARTG 6110	4
Elective	4	ARTG 5120	4
	8		8
Total Hours: 32

²

Students can choose to do a co-op in the summer between year 1 and year 2.