Post-Master's Certificate

Post-Master's Certificate in Design and Applied Arts

This one-year post-master's certificate in design and applied arts deepens creative skills and prepares graduates for advanced roles in various design fields in the US.

1 year
Length
Master
Level
After master's degree
Entry level
44
Schools
00
Exit level
Master
Length
1 year
Work-study
Uncommon
Selectivity
Selective
Direct careers
6 métiers
Where to study
44 établissements

About

This certificate is a specialized program designed for students who have already completed a master's degree and want to enhance their expertise in design and applied arts. It is aimed at individuals seeking to deepen their creative and technical skills to access higher-level professional opportunities. The program focuses on advanced artistic and practical knowledge, allowing graduates to work in fields such as graphic design, product design, or visual communication.

  • The certificate lasts one year and builds on previous graduate studies.
  • It is intended for students with a master's degree in design or related fields.
  • The program helps develop advanced creative techniques and applied skills.
  • Graduates can pursue careers in design studios, creative agencies, or cultural institutions.
  • The certificate supports those aiming for specialized roles or further academic research.

What you study

The curriculum combines theoretical and practical courses focusing on various aspects of design and applied arts. Students engage in projects that encourage experimentation and innovation, often working with real-world briefs. The program emphasizes the application of design principles to solve complex problems and develop unique artistic expressions.

  • Courses cover advanced design theory, visual communication, and material studies.
  • Students participate in workshops and studio projects to apply their skills practically.
  • The program encourages collaborative work and interdisciplinary approaches.
  • There is a strong focus on digital tools and traditional techniques.
  • Students develop a portfolio showcasing their creative projects by the end of the year.

How to get in

Admission requires having completed a master's degree, preferably in design, fine arts, or a related field. Candidates usually submit a portfolio demonstrating their previous work and creative potential. The application process often involves interviews or presentations to assess motivation and fit for the program.

  • Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent.
  • A portfolio of creative work is essential for evaluation.
  • The selection process may include interviews or review panels.
  • Strong interest in design innovation and applied arts is expected.
  • The program is open to both domestic and international students meeting admission criteria.

Day to day

The academic year is structured around intensive coursework, studio sessions, and project work. Students often collaborate on creative assignments, balancing individual and group tasks. While internships are not always mandatory, some programs encourage practical experience in design firms or cultural organizations.

  • The workload includes lectures, , and studio time.
  • Students engage in design projects that simulate professional challenges.
  • Some programs offer opportunities for internships or real client collaborations.
  • The pace is demanding, with a focus on creative output and critical analysis.
  • Students typically develop a final portfolio or project to complete the certificate.

Careers this degree leads to

Graduates can find opportunities in various design-related professions, often in creative agencies, product companies, or cultural institutions. The certificate enhances employability by providing advanced skills sought after in competitive design markets. Job prospects depend on the candidate's portfolio and networking within the industry.

  • Possible careers include graphic designer, product designer, and art director.
  • Employment sectors include advertising, media, and manufacturing.
  • The certificate supports roles requiring specialized design expertise.
  • Networking and internships can improve job placement chances.
  • The design field values creative portfolios alongside formal qualifications.

Continuing your studies

After completing this certificate, students may choose to continue with doctoral studies in design or related fields, or pursue specialized professional certifications. Some may also decide to shift focus towards teaching or research roles within art and design institutions.

  • Further study options include PhD programs in design or arts.
  • Professional development courses can enhance technical skills.
  • Graduates may explore academic careers or research opportunities.
  • Some might consider entrepreneurship in creative industries.

Where to study this degree (44)

Chargement de la carte…
Northeastern University
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Northeastern University
University
📍Boston, 🇺🇸 United States
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Middlesex Community College
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Middlesex Community College
School
📍Bedford, 🇺🇸 United States
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Maryland Institute College of Art
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Maryland Institute College of Art
School
📍Baltimore, 🇺🇸 United States
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Endicott College
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Endicott College
School
📍Beverly, 🇺🇸 United States
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Bowling Green State University
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Bowling Green State University
University
📍Bowling Green, 🇺🇸 United States
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Michigan State University
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Michigan State University
University
📍East Lansing, 🇺🇸 United States
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California State University, Fullerton
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California State University, Fullerton
University
📍Fullerton, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Utah
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University of Utah
University
📍Salt Lake City, 🇺🇸 United States
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Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
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Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
college
📍Bloomsburg, 🇺🇸 United States
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School of the Art Institute of Chicago
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School of the Art Institute of Chicago
School
📍Chicago, 🇺🇸 United States
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Mount Mary University
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Mount Mary University
University
📍Milwaukee, 🇺🇸 United States
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Lynn University
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Lynn University
University
📍Boca Raton, 🇺🇸 United States
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Arizona State University Digital Immersion
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Arizona State University Digital Immersion
college
📍Scottsdale, 🇺🇸 United States
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Radford University
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Radford University
University
📍Radford, 🇺🇸 United States
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Lesley University
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Lesley University
University
📍Cambridge, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
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University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
University
📍North Dartmouth, 🇺🇸 United States
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Massachusetts College of Art and Design
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Massachusetts College of Art and Design
School
📍Boston, 🇺🇸 United States
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Iowa State University
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00
Iowa State University
University
📍Ames, 🇺🇸 United States
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Founded—
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University of Kansas
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University of Kansas
University
📍Lawrence, 🇺🇸 United States
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Western Oregon University
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Western Oregon University
University
📍Monmouth, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Memphis
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University of Memphis
University
📍Memphis, 🇺🇸 United States
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American University
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American University
University
📍Washington, 🇺🇸 United States
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Mars Hill University
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Mars Hill University
University
📍Mars Hill, 🇺🇸 United States
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Ferris State University
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Ferris State University
University
📍Big Rapids, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Advancing Technology
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University of Advancing Technology
University
📍Tempe, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
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Institution
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Kansas State University
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Kansas State University
University
📍Manhattan, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
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Institution
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St. Mary's University, Texas
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St. Mary's University, Texas
University
📍San Antonio, 🇺🇸 United States
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Southern Adventist University
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Southern Adventist University
University
📍Collegedale, 🇺🇸 United States
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Founded—
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California State University, Dominguez Hills
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California State University, Dominguez Hills
University
📍Carson, 🇺🇸 United States
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Institution
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Florida International University
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Florida International University
University
📍Miami, 🇺🇸 United States
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Virginia Tech
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Virginia Tech
School
📍Blacksburg, 🇺🇸 United States
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Founded—
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Institution
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LIM College
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00
LIM College
School
📍New York, 🇺🇸 United States
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Founded—
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Institution
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Mercyhurst University
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00
Mercyhurst University
University
📍Erie, 🇺🇸 United States
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Founded—
Students—
Institution
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Kennesaw State University
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00
Kennesaw State University
University
📍Kennesaw, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
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University of Baltimore
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University of Baltimore
University
📍Baltimore, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
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University of Pennsylvania
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00
University of Pennsylvania
University
📍Philadelphia, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
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California State University, Monterey Bay
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00
California State University, Monterey Bay
University
📍Seaside, 🇺🇸 United States
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Students—
Institution
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University at Buffalo
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University at Buffalo
college
📍Buffalo, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
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Students—
Institution
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Stevenson University
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00
Stevenson University
University
📍Owings Mills, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
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Students—
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Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Aguadilla
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Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Aguadilla
college
📍Aguadilla, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
University
📍Urbana, 🇺🇸 United States
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Students—
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Suffolk University
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00
Suffolk University
University
📍Boston, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
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The University of Texas at Austin
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The University of Texas at Austin
University
📍Austin, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
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Mississippi College
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Mississippi College
School
📍Clinton, 🇺🇸 United States
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Founded—
Students—
Institution
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Liste des 44 établissements

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible to apply for this certificate?

Applicants must have completed a master's degree, preferably in design or a related field, and submit a portfolio demonstrating their creative skills.

Is this certificate recognized in the US education system?

Yes, it is a post-master's certificate recognized at EQF level 7, indicating advanced study beyond a master's degree.

Can I work while studying this certificate?

The program is intensive and typically full-time, so working alongside studies may be challenging and is generally not structured for part-time attendance.

Does the program include internships?

Internships are not always mandatory but may be encouraged or offered to provide practical experience.

What kind of projects will I work on?

Students engage in creative projects that apply design principles to real or simulated briefs, often involving both individual and group work.

Can this certificate lead to further academic studies?

Yes, graduates can pursue doctoral programs or research opportunities in design and applied arts.

Is prior professional experience required?

Professional experience is not always required but having some background in design can be beneficial for success in the program.

Are international students eligible to apply?

Yes, international students who meet the academic and language requirements can apply for this certificate.