Master in Design Strategy

The application deadline for the Aug 2027 intake is Nov 15, 2026; tuition fees are 53,838 USD per year.

The Master in Design Strategy at California College of the Arts is a 2-year graduate program for students who want to innovate and lead in business. This Master's degree helps students develop human-centered solutions and question complexity.

The curriculum includes hands-on components and residencies that help students develop skills in design strategy, innovation, and leadership. Students learn to examine complex systems, imagine alternate futures, and build them.

Graduates of this program can become Innovation Consultants, Design Strategists, Business Leaders, or Creative Directors in industries like technology, healthcare, or finance. They can work for companies like Apple, Google, or non-profit organizations, using their skills to drive positive change.

California College of the Arts, founded in 1907 with campuses in San Francisco and Oakland, is a leading institution for art, design, architecture, and writing. The college cultivates creative practice through studio based learning, critical inquiry, and interdisciplinary approaches. International students will find a supportive environment that emphasizes experimentation, professional development, and connection to the Bay Area arts ecosystem.

CCA’s curriculum blends rigorous technique with conceptual exploration, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees that prepare students for careers in fine arts, design, architecture, and creative writing. Faculty are practicing artists and designers who mentor students on portfolio development, exhibitions, and real world projects. State of the art facilities and access to galleries and studios help students translate ideas into professional work while building networks with local cultural organizations.

Living and studying in the Bay Area gives CCA students access to a vibrant creative economy, internships, and collaborative projects with tech and cultural partners. International applicants can take advantage of admissions advising, financial support options, and campus services designed to ease transition and promote success. For students seeking a hands on, concept driven education that connects craft to cultural practice, CCA provides an inspiring and career oriented experience.