The MPS Data Visualization & Communication (DV&C) program equips you with the tools to translate complex information into powerful stories that grab attention and move people to action. With a foundation that blends data, design, and storytelling, you’ll learn to craft compelling visualizations that don’t just inform, but influence decisions across industries, media and create societal change.

Most graduate programs in data visualization still approach it through the lens of data science, engineering, or business analytics, where technical analysis comes first and design is often treated as an afterthought. Few programs genuinely integrate visual creativity, design thinking, and data fluency—all of which are crucial in today’s information-saturated world. That gap is our opportunity: as AI makes technical tasks faster and easier, it’s our ability to think creatively and communicate visually that will set the next generation of data professionals apart.

The DV&C program is built for shaping the future. Here, you will learn to harness advanced tools, including AI, to analyze and structure complex data, to create meaningful visual stories that connect with audiences, move teams to action, and drive change. Rather than replacing creativity, AI becomes a catalyst—helping you code smarter, design bolder, and spend less time on tedious tasks.

Our hybrid approach puts people first. By mastering creative design and modern data tools, you’ll graduate ready to make information understandable, and to inspire positive change with visuals that bring data—and human stories—to life.

• Be Among the First: DV&C is one of the world's few graduate programs that truly balances advanced design, data science, and storytelling—and the only one to approach data communication through a fine arts lens with professional career focus.
• NYC Industry Immersion: Our direct connections to New York City's design, tech, media, and analytics powerhouses put you alongside industry leaders and rising talent—opening doors to real-world projects and lasting professional relationships.
• Shape the Future: More than simply following trends, you’ll be empowered to lead the way, guided by faculty who are celebrated innovators in the rapidly evolving landscape of data visualization.
• One-of-a-Kind MPS Approach: Unlike traditional master's programs that focus on business analytics or code, DV&C merges fine arts instincts, advanced technology, and commercial acumen—preparing you to lead in an AI-driven, information-rich world where you can cut through the noise and make authentic connections.
• NYC as Your Campus: You're not just in the city—you're part of its data, art, and tech communities. Join exclusive events, gain mentorship, and connect with a diverse network that's shaping tomorrow.
• Think Like an Artist: While other programs teach you to use current tools, we empower you to invent new approaches, blending AI, storytelling, and hands-on studio culture to make data impossible to ignore.

Our unique DV&C curriculum is built around the hybridized practice of data communication, requiring data fluency, empathy, and creativity. You’ll gain the technical skills to work with code and the design instincts to shape its meaning, ensuring you can confidently step into the growing demand for professionals who bridge the gap between insight and artistic expression.

Thanks to our deep integration with New York City’s top business, agency, and analytics circles, you’ll build a powerful professional network while sharpening job-ready skills. Over our 10-month, in-person program, you’ll experience a thoughtful balance between design and data coursework, developing real-world connections with peers and NYC’s vibrant professional community.

In the early semesters, you’ll dive into design methods and coding skills—working with collaborators to solve problems, craft polished presentations, and create outstanding data communications. SVA’s respected standard of professionalism culminates in your thesis project: a dynamic portfolio piece that demonstrates your ability to turn data challenges into visually compelling solutions ready to get noticed by employers worldwide.

We know you have a life to live and a mission to fulfill. The MPS Data Visualization and Communication program is a new approach to learning and applying skills over a 10-month intensive program. You will immerse yourself in a creative studio environment where you will be hands-on from the first day to the last. 

While the image of a “unicorn”—someone who can do it all perfectly—is prized in the media, professionals in the real world know that quality work is a team sport. Collaboration is an essential skill, and your interpersonal communication will be in focus as much as your code and design chops.

In this program, you'll discover that the rigor and magic of design thrive most when skills, perspectives, and talents are shared—because every great outcome is built on the relationships you create within your team and community.

Are you an analyst, data scientist, or developer who wants to build your own designs? Do you have a background in design and want to improve your skills by gaining a higher fluency in data? Are you an artist who wants to take your work to a wider public through a focus on information? Are you a professional who wants to pivot your general skills into something more specialized? The MPS DV&C program seeks an initial cohort of dreamers, scientists, technologists, social experimenters, cultural hackers, technology activists, and creative professionals who want to change the world.