Master of Science in Design Science

The Master of Science in Design Science is the program for students who want to expand their career paths by meeting the growing need for the interdisciplinary design of complex products, devices, and systems. The program provides each student flexibility in exploring across multiple disciplines to learn in-depth rigorous design methods and theory that drive the design process. Each student defines a custom program of study tailored to his or her background and design interests in consultation with a program advisor. An individual student's curriculum is structured so that knowledge from at least two disciplines permeates their program of study. This is the guiding principle for the DESCI program requirements. This path integrates disciplines from top programs at the University of Michigan to balance rigorous coursework, trend-setting research and practica.

To apply to the MS of Design Science:

Applicants must have bachelor’s degree in a relevant design field such as engineering, business, psychology, industrial design, architecture, music, computer science, information, etc.
An aspiring Design Science Master’s student will be expected to have strong mathematical skills; it is likely (but not necessary) that the typical student will have a BS in either engineering, in the physical/ mathematical sciences or business with a strong mathematical background. Non-engineering students will be admitted to the program with a record of appropriate math studies, such as statistics, probability or calculus, in their undergraduate degree in order to pursue the scientific methods taught in this Master’s program. If there is a strong candidate without the appropriate mathematical record, they may be requested to take the appropriate courses before enrolling.
GRE is not required, but strongly encouraged especially for students in non-engineering or non-science-related bachelor degrees to demonstrate their mathematical skills.

Rackham English Proficiency Requirements:

IBT TOEFL - 84;

Paper/Pencil TOEFL and TWE - 560;

Revised Paper Delivered Test - An overall score is not provided for this test. Minimum section scores: Reading = 23; Listening = 23; Writing = 21;

MELAB - 80;

IELTS - 6.5;

ECPE - certificate of proficiency