NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Information Design and Data Visualization
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 32Total semester hours required
- 2 semestersProgram length (standard)
- Minimum 3.0 GPAAcademic requirement
- Opportunity for graduate certificatesFurther study options
- Co-op opportunities availablePractical experience
- Potential to pursue MFAAdvanced degree pathway
The Master of Science in Information Design and Data Visualization is a research- and analysis-focused program designed to equip you with the skills to visually communicate and explore complex digital information. This two-semester program prepares graduates for leadership roles in the dynamic and growing field of information design and data visualization. You will learn to translate data into compelling visual languages, integrating theoretical, cognitive, and technical aspects to engage diverse audiences. The curriculum is ideal for those seeking to become professional information designers and data visualization experts ready to contribute to data-driven sectors such as design, technology, business, health, education, and public institutions.
Curriculum
The program requires 32 semester hours of coursework. Students can complete the degree in two semesters (16 hours per semester) without a co-op, or over four semesters with a summer co-op between years. The curriculum includes core requirements and electives, focusing on design principles, research methods, visual cognition, statistics, and visualization technologies.
- Year 1
- Information Design Studio 1: PrinciplesARTG 5100
- Research Methods for DesignARTG 5120
- Visual CognitionARTG 5310
- Statistics for DesignARTG 5320
- Visualization Technologies 1: FundamentalsARTG 5330
- Information Design Studio 2: Dynamic Mapping and ModelsARTG 6100
- Information Design Theory and Critical ThinkingARTG 6110
- Elective
Careers
Graduates are prepared to enter a dynamic and burgeoning field, capable of collaborating effectively in roles such as professional information designers and data visualization experts. The program's focus on critical inquiry and analytical practices aims to position students for leadership roles across various data-driven sectors.
- Information Designer
- Data Visualization Expert
- Designer
- Technologist
- Business Analyst
- Health Data Specialist
- Education Data Specialist
- Public Institutions Data Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Science in Information Design and Data Visualization?
- You will need a minimum GPA of 3.000 to be considered for admission to this program.
- How long does the Master of Science in Information Design and Data Visualization program take to complete?
- The program requires 32 semester hours and can be completed in two semesters (without a co-op) or over four semesters with a summer co-op.
- What are the tuition fees for this program?
- Tuition rates are updated for Fall 2026 and vary by term. You can find specific program tuition by selecting the term and program on the Northeastern Online Tuition page.
- What career opportunities are available after graduating from this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Information Designer, Data Visualization Expert, Technologist, and Business Analyst, with co-op opportunities available.
- What documents are required for the application?
- Required documents include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume/CV. International applicants also need to provide English language proficiency scores.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students?
- Northeastern University offers several tuition discounts, including the Standard App Northeastern Online Scholarship (3%) and the Fast App Northeastern Online Scholarship (6%), which are applied automatically.
Entry requirements
Northeastern University Graduate AdmissionMinimum 3.000 GPA required.
International applicants applying to U.S. campuses should refer to specific details regarding transcripts, testing, and English language requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition rates are updated for Fall 2026 and vary by term. Specific program tuition can be found by selecting the term and program on the Northeastern Online Tuition page. Scholarships are applied automatically.
Tuition (home)Tuition rates are updated for Fall 2026 and vary by term. Specific program tuition can be found by selecting the term and program on the Northeastern Online Tuition page. Scholarships are applied automatically.
LivingLiving costs are not specified.
All programs are billed by term. An enrollment deposit is required to secure your place and is applied to your first tuition bill ($199 for degrees). Payment plans may be available through Student Financial Services.
How to apply
1. Start Your ApplicationBegin by visiting the Graduate Admissions portal. You will need to submit an application for the Information Design and Data Visualization MS program.
2. Submit Required MaterialsGather and submit all necessary documents, which typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and resume/CV. Specific requirements for international applicants, including English language proficiency and transcript evaluation, must be met.
3. Application ReviewOnce submitted, your application will be reviewed by the admissions committee. International applicants should pay close attention to specific deadlines and requirements.
4. Check Application StatusAfter submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email which can be used to set up and check your application status.
Scholarships
Standard App Northeastern Online Scholarship3% of full program tuition
Fast App Northeastern Online Scholarship6% of full program tuition
Double Husky Scholarship25% tuition discount
Parent and Family Scholarship25% tuition discount
Full Circle Scholarship25% tuition discount
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Science in Information Design and Data Visualization?
+
You will need a minimum GPA of 3.000 to be considered for admission to this program.
How long does the Master of Science in Information Design and Data Visualization program take to complete?
+
The program requires 32 semester hours and can be completed in two semesters (without a co-op) or over four semesters with a summer co-op.
What are the tuition fees for this program?
+
Tuition rates are updated for Fall 2026 and vary by term. You can find specific program tuition by selecting the term and program on the Northeastern Online Tuition page.
What career opportunities are available after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Information Designer, Data Visualization Expert, Technologist, and Business Analyst, with co-op opportunities available.
What documents are required for the application?
+
Required documents include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume/CV. International applicants also need to provide English language proficiency scores.
Are there any scholarships available for international students?
+
Northeastern University offers several tuition discounts, including the Standard App Northeastern Online Scholarship (3%) and the Fast App Northeastern Online Scholarship (6%), which are applied automatically.