The program begins with a series of required studio courses that provide a foundation of essential skills. As students progress, they tailor their course of study to their interests and goals through electives and mentorship opportunities. At the end of the program, students collaborate to develop and coordinate a gallery exhibition in which they each present their final work. 

Career-Ready Graduates

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in the furniture design industry, and have the skills and knowledge to pursue their own unique design practices.

• Skills to support the furniture design process, including researching different styles and artists’ work, sketching, sourcing material and building models.
• Fluency in different methodologies of visualizing and communicating furniture designs.
• Good working habits that support experimentation, design, and production.
• Knowledge of the historical development and social history of furniture in America, as well as an understanding of contemporary furniture design, as a context for creative work.
• Competencies in the fine craft of woodworking and/or other materials and techniques for the creation of studio furniture, sculptural furniture, and fine furniture.
• A personal aesthetic and conceptual framework for furniture design.
• The ability to articulate one’s work and vision in relation to historical and contemporary practice.
• Safety practices relating to tools, machinery, and health in the production of studio furniture.
• A basic understanding of environmental and sustainability issues related to the production of furniture.
• Pathways for creating an individualized professional practice in studio furniture making and/or alternative methods.
• Skill in presenting one’s work in a professional setting.