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.
