Master of Fine Arts in Trans-disciplinary Design
About This Programme
A studio-driven 57-credit MFA in trans-disciplinary design, design research, critical theory and emerging technologies, culminating in a research thesis or an industry-integrated capstone. Opens careers in design leadership, creative strategy, social innovation and AI-driven design (AUS ranked top-200 globally for Art and Design).
Course Highlights
- First program of its kind in the GCC, framed around design leadership in the AI era
- Studio practice plus critical theory, research methods and emerging technologies
- Electives in AI and Big Data, Circular Economy, Advanced UX, Social Innovation and Design Leadership
- Choice of a research thesis or an industry-integrated capstone
What You'll Study
A studio-driven, mentorship-led MFA integrating studio practice, critical theory, design research and emerging technologies (AI, XR) across CAAD labs and studios, with a fall-only intake.
Core - Studio, Theory & Research
- Design studio practice and creative exploration
- Critical theory and design-research methods
- Emerging technologies for design (AI, XR)
Electives
- AI and Big Data
- Circular Economy
- Advanced UX
- Social Innovation
- Design Leadership
Culminating Project
- Research Thesis (self-initiated, faculty-supervised) - or
- Industry-Integrated Capstone (external professional partner)
Entry Requirements
MBA and MBDA applicants take the GMAT or the AUS admission test; a statement of purpose is required for some programmes.
Careers
Graduates lead cross-disciplinary design and innovation teams, design AI/XR-driven experiences, work across cultural and media institutions, launch ventures, or continue to PhD/academic careers.
Accreditation & Professional Recognition
UAE CAA-licensed program (College of Architecture, Art and Design)
Programme Details
Award
Master of Fine Arts in Trans-disciplinary Design
Start Date
August 2026 (Fall; Spring intake for many programmes)
Typical Offer
Bachelor's degree from a related field (design, architecture, art, engineering, humanities, social sciences, education or media), CGPA 3.00/4.0 and IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 80; portfolio and statement demonstrating design-research interest
Duration
2 years
Qualification
Masters
Subject Area
Art & Design
Campus
Sharjah
Course Type
Master of Fine Arts
Study Pattern
Full time
Delivery Format
In person
Tuition Fee
AED 156,180/yr
Apply online at apply.aus.edu with transcripts, a CV, references and a statement of purpose where required. The graduate application fee is AED 450 + 5% VAT. AUS offers graduate assistantships to qualified applicants.