PhD Design Science at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Programme overview

The PhD in Design Science is a research-focused interdisciplinary doctorate for students who advance the science of design and address complex societal challenges. Each student builds a customized research trajectory in at least two disciplines and is mentored by a dual faculty advising team from two disciplines.

Faculty: College of Engineering | Department: Design Science Program | Duration: 24 programme credits (9 core, 15-18 specialization, 12-18 research, 1 other); 24 additional master's-equivalent credits if admitted without a master's | Intake: Fall only; deadline December 15; decisions late February to mid March | Study mode: full-time | Location: Ann Arbor, MI, United States

What you will study

Group A core courses (9 credits, e.g. DESCI 599 Design That Works and DESCI 790 Colloquium), Group B specialization and breadth electives (15-18 credits, two specializations and courses from at least three schools or colleges), Group C research credits (DESCI 900/990/995) and responsible conduct of research training.

Career pathways

Design research, practice and teaching leadership across academia, industry and society.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Design Science PhD: bachelor's degree in a relevant design field; mathematical foundation equivalent to Calculus 1, Calculus 2 and Introduction to Probability and Statistics; recommended minimum GPA 3.5/4.0 within holistic review; GRE not required but strongly encouraged; 3 letters of recommendation; CV; academic statement of purpose and research statement; official transcripts; Rackham English proficiency requirement for international applicants. Applicants may enter with an MS/MA/MFA, or without a master's by completing 24 master's-equivalent credits in addition to the 24 PhD credits. Identifying two faculty advisors is part of admission. Application fee $75 domestic, $90 international. Deadline December 15.

Intake: Fall only; deadline December 15; decisions late February to mid March

Duration: 24 programme credits (9 core, 15-18 specialization, 12-18 research, 1 other); 24 additional master's

Apply through the official page: https://rackham.umich.edu/admissions/applying/

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