Frequently Asked Questions

• Is a Graduate Record Exam (GRE) required to apply to the MDes program?

  • No, a GRE (Graduate Record Exam) is not required.

• What background and experience should the applicants have before applying for the MDes in Experience Design program?

  • Prospective students should have a demonstrable academic and/or professional background in the following areas: graphic design, industrial design, product design, user-experience design, user-interface design, interaction design, data visualization, information design, and/or other related disciplines.

• I am an international student. How can I apply for the MDes program and earn a student visa?

  • Email grad-admissions@sjsu.edu for more information and for all international related eligibility questions.

• What kinds of jobs/career can I get after finishing the MDes program?

  • MDes XD graduates can go on to find jobs in research, design, and academia; shaping experiences for humans, technologies, and products.

• Do you accept applications on a rolling basis?

  • No, the MDes program accepts applications once a year for fall semester admission only.

• When is the application due?

  • See admissions details for deadlines.

• Where do I submit my portfolio?

  • A link to your online portfolio must be included with your application.

• What is the minimum grade point average (GPA) requirement?

  • Applicants must have a 2.5 minimum GPA to qualify for the MDes program.

• Should I submit a GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS test, if I am an international student?

  • A GRE (Graduate Record Exam) is not required. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency. One of the following is required (all test scores must be less than two years old): (1) A TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of at least 590 (paper based), 243 (computer based), or 96 (internet based), with a score of 5 in the Writing Section. (2) PTE (Pearson Test of English) score of at least 68. (3) International English Language Testing System (IELTS -  institution code 4687) score of at least 7.0.

• What kind of financial support is offered to admitted students?

  • See the Financial Aid and Scholarships Office website for more information.

• Can I speak with admission counselor about my application and the program?

  • You may contact the Program Coordinator at joshua.nelson@sjsu.edu.
    

Useful Links:

• SJSU Graduate Program
• SJSU Catalog 
• SJSU Financial Aid 
• SJSU Office of Registrar 
• SJSU International Student and Scholar Services
• SJSU Housing