MA Exhibition Design

This is one of the few accredited graduate programs in the nation devoted to interpretive exhibition design. The curriculum is a balanced integration of academic, technical, and design courses. Students attain the professional skills needed to create experiences that engage, educate, and entertain audiences, and to assume the responsibilities of storytellers, communicators, and visitor advocates.   

In addition to the rigorous course requirements, the Corcoran encourages students to seek internships in a diversity of museums and private design firms. Recent hosts include the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, the Textile Museum, the new National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Corcoran Gallery of Art. Students also develop valuable professional networks through membership in SEGD at the Corcoran, the student organization of the Society for Environmental Graphic Design.

Graduates of the multidisciplinary program are equipped to pursue careers in art, history, natural history, science, and children’s museums, as well as in private design firms. 

Sample Curriculum*

The Master of Arts in Exhibition Design is a two-year, 48-credit program, which can be completed in four semesters of full-time traditional study. Part-time study is available for those balancing careers and other demands with coursework.

required courses

Exhibition Design Studio I, II, III
Construction and Detailing for Exhibitions
Materials, Finishes, and Methods for Exhibitions
Lighting for Exhibitions
AutoCAD or Revit
Digital Graphics
Pro-Thesis and Thesis Exhibition Design Studios
History of Architecture and Interior Design
Museum Management and Operations
Conservation and Art Handling

Academic and Studio Electives

*Subject to change

Exhibition Design Faculty

Jennifer Adams
Adjunct Faculty

Philip Brady
Adjunct Faculty

Kevin Brookes
Adjunct Faculty

Clare Brown
Adjunct Faculty

Gretchen Coss
Adjunct Faculty

Dare Myers Hartwell
Head of Conservation

Cybelle Jones
Adjunct Faculty

Donna Kirk
Adjunct Faculty

Mark Leithauser
Adjunct Faculty

Julia Louie
Adjunct Faculty

Evi Oehler
Adjunct Faculty

Andrew Petitti
Adjunct Faculty

Lorraine Schmidt
Associate Chair and Academic Advisor, Master of Arts in Exhibition Design Program

Carol Ann Small
Adjunct Faculty

Selma Thomas
Adjunct Faculty

Alvin Tsao
Adjunct Faculty

Professional Organizations

American Association of Museums – AAM

Examples of Student Work

Related Student Groups and Organizations

Apply Today!

Associate Chair of Exhibition Design: Lorraine Schmidt (contact)