U-M Ross School of Business

As product design is increasingly integrated into business strategy, designers need to be fluent in basic business fundamentals that haven't been part of the traditional design education or career path. They need to think and speak about product design as it relates to target markets, brand impact, and financial goals. The collaboration between Ross and CCS is a natural one. We think it will prepare graduates of CCS to operate effectively within organizations that require significant cross-functional collaboration.

Robert J. Dolan
Dean, Stephen M. Ross School of Business

Unlike other MFA programs in the United States, the CCS programs are grounded in the knowledge that the most effective designers are those who have a firm grasp of the business world in which design operates. CCS programs provide basic study in business as well as advanced study in design. MFA students will learn business fundamentals from faculty of the University of Michigan's renowned Ross School of Business. This partnership with a premier business school provides graduates with the foundational tools required for implementing design concepts, making strategic business decisions, and becoming effective leaders in organizations.