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    Harvard University

    Master in Design Studies (MDes)

    Last verified against the official program page on .

    Cambridge, USMDesIn-person2 years
    $123,020.00
    Tuition
    over 24mo
    17%
    Acceptance
    of applicants
    $90.00
    App fee

    Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University is a 2-year, in-person MDes program based in Cambridge, US. Tuition is $123,020.

    About the program

    The program focuses on design research across domains including Ecologies, Mediums, Narratives, and Publics, addressing urgent conditions through interdisciplinary coursework and a final collaborative project.

    Focus: both

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    Deadlines

    Fall 2026
    Jan 8, 2027

    Standardized tests

    GRE
    optional
    Min GRE scores are optional for MDes applicants
    TOEFL
    required
    Min prior minimum: 92 overall (Reading 23, Listening 23, Speaking 23, Writing 23); new scale TBD (use prior as guideline)

    After the program

    Post-study work rights

    12 months OPT (US)

    $23,076.00
    Annual living cost

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    Prerequisites

    Specific coursework this program expects you to have completed: calculus, linear algebra, programming, statistics, and subject-specific prerequisites where applicable.

    Recommendations

    Exact count of letters required, whether academic vs professional references are preferred, and any program-specific guidance on who to ask.

    Essays

    Number of essays required (statement of purpose, personal statement, diversity statement), prompts where the program publishes them, and whether supplemental essays are optional or mandatory.

    Contact

    Direct email and phone for the admissions office handling this program, plus a link to the program-specific inquiry page where available.

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University cost?
    The total estimated tuition for Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University is $123,020.
    Is Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University online or in-person?
    Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University is offered in-person.
    How long does Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University take to complete?
    Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University is structured around 2 years.
    How competitive is Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University?
    Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University reports an acceptance rate of approximately 17%.
    What work-permit options follow Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University?
    Post-completion work rights for Master in Design Studies (MDes) at Harvard University: 12 months OPT (US)