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How to Apply: Certificate Programs
Application Deadlines
- Fall Application Deadline: June 15 for a Fall semester start
- Spring Semester Deadline: November 1 for a Spring semester start
Those wishing to begin the Fashion Design or Communication Design certificate in summer should apply by April 15.
Program faculty review applications in the month following the deadline. Applicants will be notified by mail.
Application Requirements for All programs
The application fee is $35. Please pay online via credit card.
In a two page statement, describe your experience and training in the program of your choice. Also describe your interest in this program and what you hope to achieve during your course of study.
Supplement your application with a résumé outlining your accomplishments and experience.
One or two recommendations from teachers or employers supporting your application are welcomed but optional.
- Communication Design Certificate Program
- Level 1: High school transcripts are required and college transcripts are encouraged if you have them.
- Level 2 & 3: College transcripts are required.
- Fashion Design Certificate Program
- High school transcripts are required
- High school transcripts are required
- Furniture Design Certificate Program
- High school transcripts are required
- High school transcripts are required
- Industrial Design Certificate Program
- College transcripts showing at least a bachelor's degree are required.
In addition to these items, each Certificate Program requires the specific materials listed below.
COMMUNICATION DESIGN
- Prerequisites: Basic skills in drawing from direct observation; Working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Acrobat, and either Adobe InDesign or Sketch
- Write a short statement of purpose: What are your goals (professional development, career, skill building, etc)?
- Students applying to Level 1 are NOT required to submit a portfolio, resume, or transcripts
- We strongly recommend submitting transcripts if plans are to continue on to Level 2.
- To advance from Level 1:
- Completion of Level 1 with all course grades B+ or higher
- Transcript showing 60 college credits; or professional and/or life experience that has prepared you for the higher levels in the program (please submit a 500 word essay to explain your qualifications and how this program fits your career aspirations).
- Students wishing to enroll in Level 2 without having completed Level 1:
- 60 college credits are required (submit transcripts)
- Application portfolio must show skills and design work equivalent to Level 1 completion
- To advance from Level 2:
- Completion of Level 2 with Portfolio "Pass"
- Students wishing to enroll in Level 3 without having completed Level 2:
- 60 college credits are required (submit transcripts)
- Application portfolio must show skills and design work equivalent to Level 2 completion
- Level 1 (with no request for transfer credits): June 15 and November 1
- students who are accepted/enroll in the Spring may start their program in Summer or Fall
- students may take Foundations of GD and/or Typography before enrolling in the program; course grades for courses taken pre-program must be B- or higher to count towards certificate completion
Level 2 and Level 3 : June 15 and November 1
- please note: Level 2 courses begin in Spring (mid Jay); Level 3 courses begin in Winter (early Jan)
If you believe you are qualified to be admitted directly to Level 2 or Level 3, please contact the Program Coordinator at alisa.aronson@massart.edu to determine appropriate placement.
- Computer (laptop or desktop)
- Reliable internet connection
- Ability to run Adobe Creative Cloud on your computer (note: Adobe CC subscription free with MassArt ID; check Adobe’s minimum system requirements to make sure your computer can run the latest version)
- strongly recommended: 20” (or larger) monitor (attach to laptop, or as part of desktop system)
- Note: although this is a remote program, learning to design projects for print (brochures, flyers, posters, magazines or other print publications, letterhead, etc.) may require students to print their work. Having an in-home printing device may be helpful, but is not required
- Other materials or books as required for specific courses
FASHION DESIGN
Create an original collage of found images that illustrates your interest in, and perspective on the fashion industry. The collage should be no smaller than 8.5" x 11" and no larger than 14" x 17". Please upload a digital copy of your collage to the online application.
FURNITURE DESIGN
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.
We only accept applications for the The Furniture Design Certificate for the Fall semeseter.
The application period will open on February 1 and end on June 15.
All applicants for the Industrial Design Certificate must have completed a Bachelor's Degree.
Portfolios for design certificate applicants are expected to demonstrate basic skills in visual language (drawing, color, composition, 2D, and 3D design) as well as some proficiency and interest in design. A majority of the images should demonstrate proficiency in drawing from observation.