QS Rank:

4

Harvard University

Massachusetts
,United States

Program Rank

20

Program Name
Master's in Design Engineering

Deadline
January 10th, 2025
Overview

The Master's in Design Engineering at Harvard University stands out as an exceptional program that thoroughly integrates engineering principles with innovative design methodologies. This program offers an in-depth exploration of the discipline, equipping students with the necessary skills to tackle complex design challenges. With a strong emphasis on creativity and analytical thinking, the curriculum is meticulously crafted to ensure that students not only learn theoretical aspects but also apply them practically in diverse real-world contexts. Through a combination of hands-on projects, collaborative assignments, and individual research, students will cultivate a comprehensive understanding of Engineering Design, preparing them for various roles in the industry.
Over the span of 24 months, students will experience a rigorous academic environment that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving. The program’s diverse curriculum includes courses such as Product Design and Development, Systems Engineering, and Human-Centered Design, which delve into both the technical and aesthetic aspects of engineering. The curriculum is designed to be dynamic and is frequently updated to incorporate the latest advancements in technology and design practices. Students will also engage in interdisciplinary projects that foster collaboration across different fields, further enhancing their learning experience and broadening their professional horizons.
Faculty members in the program are not only academically distinguished but are also recognized leaders in their respective fields. Their expertise ranges from industrial design to engineering management, ensuring that students receive insight from seasoned professionals. The teaching methodology emphasizes interactive learning, where students are encouraged to engage in discussions, workshops, and project presentations, thereby creating a vibrant classroom atmosphere. Faculty often mentor students closely, providing guidance on research projects and career development, which is an invaluable aspect of the educational experience at Harvard.
Research opportunities abound at Harvard, with state-of-the-art facilities and resources at students' disposal. The program encourages students to participate in cutting-edge research initiatives and provides access to numerous laboratories equipped with advanced technologies. Students can engage in projects that address real-world problems, collaborating with industry partners and leveraging the university's extensive network. These research opportunities not only enhance learning but also serve as a bridge to potential internships and job placements, significantly boosting graduates' employability.
The Harvard Graduate School of Design boasts strong connections with leading industries and organizations, facilitating numerous internship possibilities. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in prestigious companies, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings. These internships are crucial for developing professional networks and gaining insights into industry trends. Graduates of the program often find themselves in high-demand roles, with a median base salary of $100,000, paving the way for lucrative career pathways.
The program opens doors to a multitude of career paths, ranging from Technical Program Manager to Software Engineer, and from Product Designer to Machine Learning Engineer. Alumni of the Master's in Design Engineering have successfully transitioned into impactful roles across multiple sectors, showcasing the versatility and relevance of their education. Many graduates have shared their success stories, highlighting how the skills and knowledge acquired during their studies have been pivotal in their career advancements. Harvard's commitment to student success is evident in the numerous accolades received by its alumni, who continue to make significant contributions to the field.
Furthermore, the unique features of the Master's in Design Engineering program distinguish it from others. The program not only focuses on technical skills but also emphasizes the importance of design thinking and innovation. This holistic approach prepares students to become leaders in their fields, capable of adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of engineering and design. The collaborative projects foster teamwork and effective communication, essential skills for any professional environment.
Why Study Design Engineering at Harvard University
- A popular choice for international students, fostering a diverse community that enriches the learning experience
- Learn from distinguished faculty members who are leaders in their fields, with opportunities to become their research assistants
- Access to high-end laboratories and resources that facilitate innovative research and practical learning
- Comprehensive placement programs designed to guide students towards successful career launches post-graduation
- A curriculum that integrates essential skills in engineering and design, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration
- Opportunities for involvement in groundbreaking research projects that address real-world challenges and drive innovation
Admission to the program requires a combination of strong academic credentials and relevant experience. Prospective students need to submit a transcript, resume, a well-crafted essay, a portfolio showcasing their design work, and an academic letter of recommendation. For international applicants, a minimum score of 92 on the TOEFL is essential to demonstrate English proficiency. These prerequisites ensure that students possess the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success in the program, maintaining the high academic standards that Harvard is renowned for.

Total Tuition Fees
$1,20,000

Duration
24 Months

Median Salary
$1,10,000
Ranking
#3
US World and News Report
#2
The World University Rankings
#4
QS World University Rankings

Intake
Fall ( Sept - Nov )
Class Profile

Class Size
100

Average Age
25

Average Work Experience
3 Years
Diversity
United States:
50%China:
15%India:
10%Canada:
5%United Kingdom:
4%Others:
16%Career Outcomes

Median Earnings After Graduation
$1,10,000 / year

Graduation Rate
98%
Prospective Job Roles
Technical Program Manager
Product Manager
Software Engineer
Software Architect
Solutions Architect
Site Reliability Engineer
Cybersecurity Engineer
Product Designer
Network Engineer
UI Designer
Engineering Director
Data Scientist
Business Analyst
Engineering Manager
UX Designer
DevOps Engineer
Systems Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
Top recruiters


















Eligibility Criteria

At least 24 months of full-time professional experience after graduation.

At least 3 / 4 undergraduate GPA is expected.

At least 15 years of bachelor degree.
English Proficiency Tests
TOEFL
92
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 90
Transcript
Statement of Purpose
Resume
IELTS
Professional LOR
Portfolio
Academic LOR
Application Deadlines
Standard Deadline | |
---|---|
Fall | Jan 10, 2025 |
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$60,000 / year

Overall Cost
$76,000 / year
Funding Options
External Sources - Scholarships
Department Funding
Scholarships
The Harvard University Graduate School of Design offers a variety of scholarships and fellowships to help students defray the cost of their education. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and other factors. The school also offers a number of graduate assistantships, which provide students with a stipend in exchange for working in a research or teaching position.
The Harvard University Graduate School of Design
The Harvard University Alumni Association
FAQs
A student can complete Design Engineering at Harvard University with in 24.
The application fee to pursue Design Engineering at Harvard University is USD 90 for international students.
The annual tuition fee to pursue Design Engineering at Harvard University is USD 55000.
The Design Engineering at Harvard University has 4 semesters.
The submission of these scores mainly depends on the type of degree/ course selected at the Harvard University. For example, the GMAT test is required to take admission to an abroad graduate management program, the LSAT is required during an abroad Law School admission process, and more. Therefore, check Harvard University requirements before submitting a score.
Design Engineering can help Indian/ international students gain: 1. Quality and Practical Education 2. Global Recognition 3. International Exposure 4. Amazing Job Opportunities 5. Experience of Lifetime and more
If a student fulfils all the eligibility criteria and admission requirements of Harvard University, they can easily pursue Design Engineering. The basic eligibility criteria include the following: 1. A GPA above 3 2. Well-written Statement of Purpose 3. An impressive Letter of Recommendation 4. A Work Experience Certificate (if required) 5. A Statement of Financial Proof 6. Academic Transcripts 7. Valid Visa, etc.
An MS degree at Harvard University can usually be completed in 2 years. However, many universities offer a 1-year master’s specialisation as well. You can explore the official Harvard University website to check the course/ degree duration.
One can apply for scholarships to pursue their international education at Harvard University by: 1. Looking for country-specific scholarships by contacting the specific scholarship institutions. 2. Applying to or finding out if any subject-specific scholarships are available from the university website/ department.
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