Design (M.Des.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Master of Design (M.Des.) at the Illinois Institute of Technology is a STEM-designated postgraduate program for individuals driven to become strategic designers capable of navigating complex challenges. Building on a legacy of human-centered and systems design, this program equips you to move fluidly between strategic thinking and creative execution. You will explore rigorous methods in user research, strategic communication, and systems theory, preparing you to address critical business, civic, and social issues through innovative offerings and service systems. This degree is ideal for those seeking to make a significant impact, regardless of their prior design training.

This full-time, on-campus Master of Design degree is pursued over two years, fostering a collaborative environment where you will engage in rigorous prototyping and critique. The core curriculum provides a strong foundation, complemented by elective courses allowing for specialisation. You will develop essential skills in analysis and synthesis, building and understanding context across diverse projects. Upon graduation from this Illinois Institute of Technology program, you will be prepared for impactful roles in the private, public, or nonprofit sectors, equipped to drive sustainable change and create meaningful value.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Design program offers a robust core curriculum focused on the principles and methods of design thinking. Students will explore user research, strategic communication, and systems theory, alongside modes of human experience and the crucial processes of analysis and synthesis. The program emphasizes understanding and building context, with opportunities to delve into communication systems, embodied design, and digital media through elective choices.

1 Core Curriculum

Principles and Methods of User Research Compulsory
Strategic Communication Compulsory
Introduction to Systems Theory Compulsory
Modes of Human Experience Compulsory
Analysis + Synthesis Compulsory
Building and Understanding Context Compulsory
Communication Systems
Embodied Design
Digital Media
Programme Elective slots available

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 49,977.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 49,977.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 99,954.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,080.00 - USD 2,995.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Eureka Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

68%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Why Study Design (M.Des.) at Illinois Institute of Technology

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Moderate Application response time

Illinois Institute of Technology typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois Institute of Technology in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Design (M.Des.) at Illinois Institute of Technology

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English requirements, international students can choose from several tests. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 80 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles as Strategic Designers, UX Designers, Product Managers, Service Designers, or Design Consultants.

What will I actually study in this course?

The IIT Institute of Design, founded by László Moholy-Nagy, emphasizes human-centered and systems design. Students engage in collaborative projects addressing business, civic, and social challenges to become strategic designers.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Design program has two intake months: January and September. Make sure to prepare your application based on these timelines.
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