Admission to the Master of Design Studies program is based upon multiple criteria that include academic preparation, professional experience, and an assessment of career trajectories.  

All applicants must demonstrate these criteria in the following manner. University of Arkansas Graduate School requirements are: a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in the last 60 hours of an accredited degree; and TOEFL/IELTS/PTE-A scores as detailed in the Graduate Catalog.   

Additionally, admission to the Master of Design Studies will require: 

• accredited baccalaureate degree in a design discipline (architecture, landscape architecture or interior design),  
• relevant professional work experience or academic internship,   
• portfolio of design work reviewed by graduate design faculty to ascertain individual preparedness,  
• statement of career goals,  
• three letters of reference addressing preparedness for graduate education, and  
• professional licensure (desirable but not required). 
  

International students are encouraged to apply to the M.Des. program. Specific information regarding university admission criteria, cost and funding opportunities, and other resources needed to facilitate advanced study is located on the Graduate School and International Education website. Students are strongly encouraged to visit with the graduate coordinator to learn about specific opportunities prior to beginning the application process

How to apply

Admission to the Master of Design Studies program requires review and approval by both the University of Arkansas Graduate School and the MDes program. Applicants complete one online application through the University of Arkansas Graduate School Application Portal.

The application will not be considered complete until all Graduate School requirements and MDes program-specific materials have been submitted. Questions concerning application materials, processes, or deadlines should be directed to the Fay Jones School graduate coordinator at faygrad@uark.edu. 

Applicants must submit the following materials through the Graduate School application portal:

• A completed Graduate School application and required application fee. 
• A resume documenting relevant professional experience and academic internships.
• A personal statement describing the applicant's career goals and reasons for pursuing MDes.
• The names and contact information of three references who can discuss the applicant's work, conceptual thinking, work habits, and potential for graduate study. References will receive instructions for submitting their letters through the application system.
• A portfolio of design work submitted as a single PDF file not exceeding 20 pages. 
• Any additional materials required by the Graduate School, including English proficiency documentation for international applicants, when applicable.

Application and document deadlines are established by the University of Arkansas Graduate School. Applicants should review the Graduate School Admissions website for current requirements and deadlines. Enrollment is limited, and early application is encouraged.