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.
For more information including the zoom links for online events, please refer to your email and the google calendar that was shared with all incoming graduate students. If you did not receive the shared calendar, reach out to us at gradstudies@risd.edu.
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
June 2025
Jun 12
General Graduate Studies Q&A (online)
6:30–7:30 pm
Join us to discuss the RISD graduate experience with current students. Bring your questions about starting at RISD, living in Rhode Island and anything else you want to know before you arrive.
Jun 16
Graduate Studies intro/info session (online)
5–6 am
From events and open studios to grants and teaching opportunities, learn more about how Graduate Studies can support you throughout your time at RISD.
Jun 16
Graduate Studies intro/info session (online)
6–7 pm
From events and open studios to grants and teaching opportunities, learn more about how Graduate Studies can support you throughout your time at RISD.
Jun 26
General Graduate Studies Q&A (online)
6–7 am
Join us to discuss the RISD graduate experience with current students. Bring your questions about starting at RISD, living in Rhode Island and anything else you want to know before you arrive.
Jun 30
RISD real talk: quiz + queso (online)
6–7 pm
Join us for a fun and casual Zoom session where invited current RISD students will share their real experiences about student life, food hacks, and everyday tips, through a mix of a quiz, rapid questions and open discussion. This light event is designed to help incoming international students feel more comfortable and connected.
TBD
Intro to campus (online)
Join our Grad Guides for a casual discussion of key campus spots every grad student should know—from quiet study areas to essential resource hubs.
TBD
A day in the life of a RISD grad student (online)
TBD
International student Q&A (online)
Join us to discuss the RISD graduate experience with current international grad students.
July 2025
Jul 06
Summer graduate welcome social hour (in-person)
6–8 pm
Get to know your graduate community over food and drinks as we welcome our summer cohorts (Architecture, Interior Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Teaching and Learning in Art & Design), along with any other new grad students who can make it. Please let us know if you plan on coming so we can order the correct amount of food.
TBD
Required Title IX orientation (online)
RISD’s Equity & Compliance team will review Title IX and the relevant resources available to you at RISD. This orientation is required and will be particularly helpful if you are looking to work for RISD during your time as a graduate student.
Contact Graduate Studies
Hours
Mon–Fri: 8:30 am–4:30 pm
Contact
20 Washington Place
Fourth floor
Providence, RI 02903