The deadline for applications to the Master of Design Methods program is June 1st.

Master of Design Methods (MDM)

The Master of Design Methods (MDM) is a two-year, weekend-only executive master's degree. This format enables students to obtain a degree over 20 months while remaining in their jobs. As a program designed for working professionals, it is often funded by employers. This program is for exceptional design, management, engineering, and other professionals who wish to acquire robust design methods and frameworks and apply design thinking to the development of products, communications, services, and systems. The majority of classes are taught two weekends a month, though students have the opportunity to take courses in the full-time program if they desire to do so. Team-based projects and work throughout the program foster collaboration and enhance the integrity of the cohort. Two one-week workshops available only during the summer are a requirement for graduation. Students should anticipate an average of 10 hours of out-of-class work per week.

Those MDM applicants seeking to attend the program on a full-time basis may apply to complete it in nine months, taking courses offered in the full-time Master of Design program.

Prerequisites for the Master of Design Methods program include an undergraduate degree, a minimum of eight years of professional leadership experience as evidenced by peer evaluations, an exemplary portfolio (for those with design backgrounds), and strong recommendations, awards, or other honors. 

MDM statistics (based on the 2011-2012 incoming class)

Average age: 38

Male: 52% / Female: 48% 
International: 13% 
Undergraduate degree in design: 48% / non-design: 52%

Average GPA: 3.44/4.0
Average GRE score: 310/360

Average TOEFL score: 97.5/120

Deadlines

Fall admission: February 15th

Application requirements

- Four-year bachelor's degree
- GPA 3.0/4.0 minimum
- Official transcript from institution where degree was earned
- GRE encouraged but not required; TOEFL (minimum score 100) required for international applicants without a bachelor's degree from an accredited English-speaking university
- Portfolio required in some cases (may include non-design projects)
- Completed Statement of Education and Career Goals (found in application)
- Three letters of recommendation from professional contacts, at least one current
- Interview
- Work experience, minimum 8 years of innovation leadership; should be included in resume for review
- Must demonstrate peer recognition (e.g., publications, lectures, awards)
- Application fee of $100 

Expenses for financial affidavit (*estimated)

Tuition for 9 months, 2011-2012: $48,944 or $24,472 per semester
Other student fees: $1,490
Total*: $50,434

For more information, please contact Rachel Dean, director of graduate admission and retention, using our contact form or 312.595.4906.