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College of Design
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Doctor of Design Admissions

Elevate your deisgn thinking with this hands-on, hybrid degree.

For practicing designers looking to develop a high level of expertise in the areas of architecture, landscape architecture, graphic design, industrial design, and other art + design fields supported by College faculty.

Successful applicants must provide:

  • A short Statement of Purpose for graduate study will convince the reader that the applicant is motivated and prepared.
    • Not to exceed 400 words or 1-2 pages overall.
  • The capacity to articulate a clear topic with specific research questions for a clear and compelling design investigation.
    • Not to exceed 750 words or 2-3 pages overall.
  • A demonstrated mastery over their respective practices through the submission of a digital portfolio. The portfolio should highlight relevant professional experience and/or current accomplishments in a design firm or studio, public or private museum, or governmental agency involved in design/planning.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree and at least one degree from an accredited design, fine arts, or equivalent program.

Applicants submit transcripts of previous academic work with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 (undergraduate and graduate studies) along with standardized graduate test scores such as the GRE*, and international students further provide TOEFL or IELTS scores.

We seek applicants who are self-directed, focused, and resilient!

The Doctor of Design degree focuses on applied design research relevant to professional practice in design.

Strong applicants will show a depth of experience and a record of expertise in the design enterprise.

APPLY NOW 
students and faculty talking at DDes immersion week

Got Questions?

JJ
Jessica Jackson

Graduate Student Services Coordinator

919-515-8317

General inquiries not related to admissions:

Application Checklist

  • Undergrad and graduate degree transcripts (min 3.0 GPA)
  • Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
    • Contact Program Director for waiving considerations and options.
  • TOEFL or IELTS
    • TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for international students only. If you have received a degree from an accredited university where English is the primary language of instruction, this requirement may be waived. 
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Description of the proposed topic with research questions.
  • Digital portfolio of creative work and/or professional practice activities.
  • Three (3) letters of recommendation
    • At least one from the applicant’s current employer.

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