Graduate Student Events
Offering an even closer look at RISD, our on-campus and online info sessions feature faculty, staff and current students sharing information about research support, professional development and career preparation, and other valuable insights into the RISD graduate experience.
Summer events and programs
Each year, admitted graduate students will be invited to attend and participate in virtual summer events and information sessions. Programming provides general information about the RISD community, and an overview of available resources, department-based meetings and opportunities to connect with your incoming classmates. In-person orientation events are offered in September to welcome you to campus. Check back in the spring for our summer 2026 schedule.
Additionally, the following departments run summer programs that incoming students may be required to attend:
- Architecture | 3-year MArch
- Interior Architecture | MDes (both programs) and MA
- Landscape Architecture | 2- and 3-year MLA
- Teaching + Learning in Art + Design | MAT
For more event details, including zoom links for online events, use your RISD credentials to access the link below.
June 2026
JUN 15
Get to know Grad Studies (online)
7–8 pm
From events and open studios to grants and teaching opportunities, join us to explore how Graduate Studies can support you throughout your time at RISD.
JUN 16
Architecture and Design Q&A (online)
6:30–7:30 pm
For incoming Architecture, Furniture Design, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Design Engineering (MADE) students.
This informal Q&A session is an opportunity to meet people in your cohort and ask questions about:
- Studio culture and facilities
- Workload and critiques
- Housing and living in Providence
- Campus life and community
- Settling into RISD as a new graduate student
JUN 16
Fine Arts Q&A (online)
6:30–7:30 pm
For incoming Ceramics, Glass, Jewelry + Metalsmithing, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture, and Textiles students.
This informal Q&A session is an opportunity to meet people in your cohort and ask questions about:
- Studio culture and facilities
- Workload and critiques
- Housing and living in Providence
- Campus life and community
- Settling into RISD as a new graduate student
JUN 18
Navigating RISD: Administrative Q&A (online)
6:30–7:30 pm
Starting at a new institution comes with a lot of questions. Join a Grad Orientation Guide for an informal Q&A covering course registration, financial aid, student resources, and other administrative topics. Whether you're wondering who to contact, where to find information, or how certain processes work, this session will help demystify the administrative side of starting at RISD and prepare you for a smooth transition into graduate study.
JUN 23
Navigating RISD: Life in Providence Q&A (online)
6:30–7:30 pm
Moving to a new place can be exciting, but it also comes with a lot of questions. Join a Grad Orientation Guide for an informal conversation about life in Providence and New England. From grocery stores and getting around town to weather, neighborhoods, and favorite local spots, this session is designed to help you feel more prepared for your move and more connected to your new community.
JUN 26
International student Q&A (online)
10:30–11:30 pm
Designed specifically for incoming international graduate students, this virtual Q&A session offers practical advice and peer support from current RISD students who have experience navigating the transition to studying in the United States.
This informal Q&A session is an opportunity to ask questions about:
- Arriving and settling into Providence
- Housing, grocery shopping and transportation
- Adjusting to RISD and graduate study
- Navigating everyday life in New England
- Building community as an international student
JUN 30
Graduate campus tour (in-person)
6–7:15 pm
Join incoming and returning graduate students in exploring and learning more about the RISD campus with our Grad Guides!
The tour will last approximately one hour and will meet in front of Bolt Coffee (61 Washington Street , Providence RI, 02903). This will be a great opportunity to explore what the RISD campus has to offer as well as ask any questions you may have. We'll be visiting various grad studio locations, pointing out where to find resources!
Use the form below to register. Please note that dates are subject to change based on participant sign-ups but we'll make sure to reach out with more information and tour confirmation. Tours run rain or shine, unless there is heavy rain or thunderstorms.
July 2026
JUL 5
Summer Graduate Welcome Reception (in-person)
6:30–8:30 pm
Many graduate programs, including Architecture, Interior Architecture, Landscape Architecture, MADE, and Teaching + Learning in Art + Design, kick off in the summer, and we’re excited to celebrate all graduate students with an in-person gathering.
Join us on Sunday, July 5 at 6:30 pm in the Fleet Library for an evening of food, drinks, and community. Whether you’re new to RISD or a returning graduate student, this is a great opportunity to meet fellow grads and connect across programs.
Planning to attend? Let us know so we can make sure there’s plenty of food for everyone! If you are around Providence and want to come we would love to see you!
JUL 8
Get to know Grad Studies (online)
6:30–7:30 pm
From events and open studios to grants and teaching opportunities, join us to explore how Graduate Studies can support you throughout your time at RISD.
JUL 15
Fine Arts Q&A (online)
6:30–7:30 pm
For incoming Ceramics, Glass, Jewelry + Metalsmithing, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture, Textiles, Teaching + Learning in Art + Design, and Digital + Media students.
This informal Q&A session is an opportunity to meet people in your cohort and ask questions about:
- Studio culture and facilities
- Workload and critiques
- Housing and living in Providence
- Campus life and community
- Settling into RISD as a new graduate student
JUL 17
Architecture and Design Q&A (in-person)
6:30–7:30 pm
Location TBD
For incoming Architecture, Furniture Design, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Design Engineering (MADE) students.
This informal Q&A session is an opportunity to meet people in your cohort and ask questions about:
- Studio culture and facilities
- Workload and critiques
- Housing and living in Providence
- Campus life and community
- Settling into RISD as a new graduate student
Use the link to let us know if you plan on coming so we can get enough food!
Contact Graduate Studies
Hours
Mon–Fri: 8:30 am–4:30 pm
Contact
20 Washington Place
Fourth floor
Providence, RI 02903