Application and admissions
PhD
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in design is a research program for those who wish to teach or conduct fundamental research in design. The program culminates with a dissertation that extends the body of knowledge about design theory and process.
ID was the first design school in the U.S. to create a PhD program, and continues to have the largest interdisciplinary doctoral design program in the country. Much of our faculty and students' research work is supported by companies through a variety of sponsorship programs.
Ph.D. online application [opens in new window]
Deadlines
February 15, annual deadline for admission the following autumn semester.
November 15, early deadline (optional).
Please note that early acceptance does not guarantee admission for the following spring.
Autumn is the usual starting semester for Ph.D. candidates.
Application to the PhD program requires:
Application and fee: submit the application form along with the $75 application fee.
Prior degree: masters degree. Official transcript from institution(s) where a degree was earned is required.
Test scores: GRE exam is required. TOEFL required for international applicants without a bachelors degree from an accredited, English-speaking university; minimum 600 (250 computer-based, 100 Internet-based).
Portfolio: required in some cases (may include non-design projects).
Work experience: typically 2-5 years. Include your current resume for review.
Recommendations: three letters from current and/or prior contacts.
Essay: complete a Statement of Research Interests.
Interview: required.
Other: must demonstrate peer recognition (e.g. publications, lectures, awards).
Estimated Expenses 2007-2008
Tuition for 9 months: *$32,400
Living Expenses for 9 months: $11,000
Books & Studio Supplies: $850
Mandatory Health Insurance: **$850
Other student fees: **$397
Total cost of one academic year for single graduate student: $45,497
(Accompanying spouse: $4,000)
(Each accompanying child: $2,000)
Program length is minimum 3 years. Generally students complete the program in 5 years.
- 2007-2008 tuition for two semesters.
