Since its inception as a profession, graphic design has been primarily service-oriented, with a few original creators emerging in every generation who guide the way and set standards (as well as styles).

In recent years, new media have changed the role of graphic design in various ways. Graphic designers are more in demand to develop a client's branding, identity, and packaging programs. But with the means of production on their desktops, designers are also becoming glorified production "artists." The danger, of course, is that graphic designers will be edged out of the creation process, relegated to only the mechanical follow-through.

The “MFA Designer As Author” is predicated on the growing need for content providers throughout the visual media. Drawing on ones' fluency with the graphic design language of type and image, this program is the first designed exclusively to encourage authorship and entrepreneurship in a broad range of media.

The concept of authorship is, first and foremost, rooted in the independent creation of ideas, which are turned into all manner of product -- from books and magazines to toys and television programs, websites to who knows what. Our focus is on authorship in the broadest sense: Beginning with a viable concept we encourage students to write, edit, film, compose, fabricate, produce, and ultimately market their intellectual properties. The program allows the student an opportunity to work individually and in teams as integral creators tapping into the resources and expertise of an extensive media community. Our student is not merely a form-giver (which is hard enough), but a committed originator of unique conceptions. The purpose is to create products of value that are both responsible to the needs and wants of the society; the goal is to contribute objects of worth that integrate the best design in the smartest product. The program harnesses the talents of neophyte and experienced designers who have heretofore been only cogs in the process.

We require that students be fluent in the languages of graphic design and typography. In addition we welcome those who have backgrounds (and interest) in motion, sound, writing, and editing. Students must be able to convey ideas verbally and visually. We do not teach a student how to design but rather how to marshal their abilities to rise to the next creative level.

We believe it is important for the designer of the future to be thoroughly integrated into numerous communication platforms. Our students are, therefore, encouraged to draw inspiration from other visual and communications artists who share authorial aspirations. And in this way, the program is not restricted to a conventional curriculum. Instead we embrace a broad set of visual languages as the foundation for all creative activity.

Students are afforded a beautiful, professional environment in which to work. Our "studio" is accessible 24 hours a day, and is designed to simulate a real media firm, with spacious individual workstations. In addition to our classrooms, students have unlimited access to our high-end editing rooms, conference room, library, and exhibition gallery. Through this space, we offer an opportunity to stay connected to the professional world, while partaking in an academic one.

The program is designed for students from graphic design, product design, environmental design, film, photography, and computer backgrounds as well as professionals who are interested in moving on to an advanced level.

Steven Heller, co-chair
Lita Talarico, co-chair