Thesis Preparation is the first part of a two-semester thesis project. Students begin research, analysis, and developing design ideas in this semester and then follow through with project closure in the spring (term 4). Students work closely with thesis faculty during the fall semester to develop their critical thinking and to identify an appropriately complex and forward thinking inquiry that may positively expand the field and advance knowledge. Students will give illustrated presentations and are offered four workshop classes in which peer groups present written and graphic work to two faculty members. Workshops allow for extended intensive project discussion and development with both faculty and fellow students. During this course, students will produce an abstract thesis proposition clearly outlining their central question, its significance in the context of design research, and the methods they intend to interrogate their topic. Open to: MFA Industrial Design majors only.

Thesis Preparation is the first part of a two-semester thesis project. Students begin research, analysis, and developing design ideas in this semester and then follow through with project closure in the spring (term 4). Students work closely with thesis faculty during the fall semester to develop their critical thinking and to identify an appropriately complex and forward thinking inquiry that may positively expand the field and advance knowledge. Students will give illustrated presentations and are offered four workshop classes in which peer groups present written and graphic work to two faculty members. Workshops allow for extended intensive project discussion and development with both faculty and fellow students. During this course, students will produce an abstract thesis proposition clearly outlining their central question, its significance in the context of design research, and the methods they intend to interrogate their topic. Open to: MFA Industrial Design majors only.