The decision to recommend admission of an applicant to the PhD in Design program is based on his/her exemplary academic performance, high GRE and TOEFL (international applicants only) scores, strong letters of reference and an impressive portfolio of previous research and practice efforts. Furthermore, the applicant’s scholarly goals must correspond to the mission of the program and the academic resources available, including a faculty member who is willing to act as the academic advisor and mentor of the student in his/her doctoral studies and research efforts.

Process

The NC State University Graduate School and the College’s Graduate Studies Office process the submitted application materials (see left and below) which are then evaluated by College of Design faculty with affinity appointments in the Ph.D. in Design program. Taking into account faculty evaluations, the director of the Ph.D. in Design program makes admissions recommendations to the NC State University Graduate School. The final decision to admit an applicant resides with the Graduate School, which sends formal letters of admission.

Requirements

To apply online for admission and see contact information, deadlines, etc., about the PhD in Design program, visit the NC State University Graduate School web site. Note that paper applications are no longer accepted. Applicants submit the following:

	application form and fee
	official transcript
	three letters of recommendation
	GRE scores
	TOEFL scores (international applicants only)
	residency statement (US residents only)
	personal data form
	portfolio

personal data form

Applicants must pay particular attention to the Statement of Interest section of the Personal Data Form. Here, applicants are asked to describe their research aspirations in general as well as the specific topics and areas of research that interest them. Applicants should recount past academic and professional experiences that have shaped their interest in pursuing doctoral studies in design, and what they expect to make of their education after attaining the Ph.D. in design. Applicants' essays written in response to this question help faculty determine the compatibility of applicants' academic preparation and objectives with program resources.

Applicants may access an online Personal Data Form.