CORNELL UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Design Technology (M.S.)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- M.S. DegreeDegree
- 2 YearsDuration
- STEM DesignatedProgram Type
- Ithaca / Cornell Tech (NYC)Campus Locations
- Approx. 48 StudentsProgram Size
The Master of Science in Design Technology program at Cornell offers a multidisciplinary approach to design and computation. With approximately 48 students, the program fosters innovation and transdisciplinary study, encouraging research that bridges science and design. Students work on projects ranging from digital tools and responsive materials to the built environment. The program is STEM-designated, making international graduates eligible for an extended F-1 visa for work in the U.S. The program provides two distinct tracks. The Thesis Research track, based in Ithaca, requires students to develop a comprehensive research plan and form a special committee by the end of their first year. The Studio Professional track, located at Cornell Tech in New York City for the second year, focuses on collaborative studio projects, including Product Studio and options like Startup, BigCo, or PiTech Studio in the spring.
Curriculum
The first year of the program is spent in Ithaca, focusing on core studios and courses to build foundational skills in design and technology. Students then select electives in consultation with their advisor to support their specific research or project interests. The second year's location and focus depend on the chosen track: Thesis Research in Ithaca or Studio Professional at Cornell Tech.
- Year 1
- Core Studios and Courses
- Electives (selected with advisor)
- Year 2 (Thesis Track)
- Research Plan Development
- Thesis Research
- Year 2 (Studio Professional Track)
- Product Studio
- Startup/BigCo/PiTech Studio
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Design Technology M.S. program?
- A bachelor's degree is required. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS (7.5), TOEFL (100 for tests before Jan 2026, 5.0 minimum/5.5 recommended for tests Jan 2026 onwards), Duolingo (130), or Cambridge C1/C2 (191).
- How long does the Design Technology M.S. program take to complete?
- The Design Technology M.S. program is a 2-year program.
- What are the tuition and fees for this program?
- Tuition and living costs are not explicitly stated in the program information. Please refer to Cornell University's official website for current tuition rates.
- What career opportunities are available after completing the Design Technology M.S.?
- Graduates are well-positioned for careers leveraging advanced design and computational skills. The STEM designation allows international graduates to extend their F-1 visas for up to three years to work in the U.S.
- Where is the Design Technology M.S. program located and what are the track options?
- The first year is in Ithaca, and the second year depends on the track: Thesis Research in Ithaca or Studio Professional at Cornell Tech in New York City.
- What are the application deadlines for the Design Technology M.S.?
- The Early Decision application deadline is November 1, and the Regular Decision application deadline is January 2.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA bachelor's degree is required. Specific GPA or prerequisite coursework information is not detailed on the provided pages.
IELTS7.5
TOEFL (taken prior to Jan 2026)100
TOEFL (taken Jan 2026 or later)5.0 (minimum), 5.5 (recommended)
Duolingo English Test130
Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency191
English proficiency can be demonstrated if English is your native language, or if it has been the primary language of instruction throughout your secondary school career. Applicants who do not meet these criteria must submit an official English proficiency exam score.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to Cornell University's official website for current tuition rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to Cornell University's official website for current tuition rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified.
Tuition and living costs are not explicitly stated in the provided program information.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsComplete the Common Application and the Cornell Writing Supplement. An $85 application fee or a fee waiver is required. For the Design Technology program, specific supplementary materials like a portfolio, video interview, or design challenge might be required (refer to program-specific details if not standard for all first-year applicants).
2. Submit Financial Aid Application (if applicable)International applicants seeking financial aid must complete and submit the CSS Profile by the specified deadline. Cornell's admissions decisions for international students are need-aware.
3. Submit English Proficiency ScoresProvide official scores from an accepted English proficiency test (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) if you do not meet the exemption criteria. Self-reported scores are accepted initially via the Common Application or the applicant portal.
4. Submit Supplemental MaterialsEnsure all required supplemental materials, excluding portfolios and design supplements, are submitted by the supplemental materials deadline. Official test scores must be sent if admitted and enrolled.
5. Await DecisionAdmission decisions and financial aid offers are typically announced in mid-December for Early Decision applicants and at the end of March for Regular Decision applicants.
6. Respond to OfferIf admitted, reply to the offer of admission by the specified deadline, typically mid-December for Early Decision and May 1 for Regular Decision.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Design Technology M.S. program?
+
A bachelor's degree is required. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS (7.5), TOEFL (100 for tests before Jan 2026, 5.0 minimum/5.5 recommended for tests Jan 2026 onwards), Duolingo (130), or Cambridge C1/C2 (191).
How long does the Design Technology M.S. program take to complete?
+
The Design Technology M.S. program is a 2-year program.
What are the tuition and fees for this program?
+
Tuition and living costs are not explicitly stated in the program information. Please refer to Cornell University's official website for current tuition rates.
What career opportunities are available after completing the Design Technology M.S.?
+
Graduates are well-positioned for careers leveraging advanced design and computational skills. The STEM designation allows international graduates to extend their F-1 visas for up to three years to work in the U.S.
Where is the Design Technology M.S. program located and what are the track options?
+
The first year is in Ithaca, and the second year depends on the track: Thesis Research in Ithaca or Studio Professional at Cornell Tech in New York City.
What are the application deadlines for the Design Technology M.S.?
+
The Early Decision application deadline is November 1, and the Regular Decision application deadline is January 2.