FEBRUARY 2026

Application + Portfolio FAQ

Social impact design asks us to rethink traditional design thinking and consider greater systems thinking, varied disciplines, community, and context. Join MFA Design for Social Innovation at the School of Visual Arts Virtual Info Session February 12 to ask more.

Is a portfolio the only thing I can submit?

You have a choice of submitting a visual portfolio, a case study that examines a project, or a written proposal for research or a project as a part of the application process. Only submit one of these options.

Our students come from diverse fields like social sciences, engineering, architecture, fine arts, filmmaking, economics, human rights, and education. We want to see your strengths and interest in social issues.

What are you looking for in portfolios?

As a social design program, we are seeking portfolios that tell your story, share your experiences, and learnings.

As much as we love beautiful design work, we want to see your vision and how you think about the world, through systems-thinking, context, strategy, and community.

How much do you want to see?

For a visual portfolio, please submit 2-3 projects.
For a case study, please submit 1-3 case studies.
For a project proposal, please submit no more than 3 pages.

More information on each option here.

What should I say in my statement of purpose?

Your Statement of Purpose articulates your aspirations, vision, and interests, and why you feel MFA DSI can support your goals. It should also clearly state the social issue(s) that will anchor your explorations and studies at MFA DSI. Consider:

• Tell us about a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.

• Share about a time when you have been innovative, critical, and responsive.

• Share a story that reflects your lived experience or an experience that shifted your mindset.

Connect the dots and reflect upon what you hope to achieve at MFA DSI. We value personal voice and storytelling, so please submit original work with citations, including mentioning if you use AI generative software.

Any other questions? Join our Virtual Information Session February 12, 8-9pm EST.