IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Doctor of Philosophy in Apparel, Merchandising, and Design
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 72 credits minimumMinimum Credits
- 12 credits minimum in research methods and statisticsResearch & Statistics
- 20+ credits in 500-600 level AMD coursesAdvanced AMD Courses
- 12+ credits in courses outside the departmentInterdisciplinary Study
- 15 credits minimum for DissertationDissertation Focus
This Doctor of Philosophy program allows you to delve deeper into apparel, merchandising, and design, focusing on industry-wide issues such as outsourcing, sustainability, and customer behavior. You'll engage in advanced research and creative scholarship alongside world-renowned faculty, with opportunities to present and publish your work. The program can be completed through two formats: the traditional on-campus Ph.D. or a distance (hybrid) Ph.D. The distance format combines online learning with short, intensive on-campus sessions, offering flexibility for working professionals or those unable to relocate.
Curriculum
The program requires a minimum of 72 credits. Your individualized program of study will be developed in consultation with your advisor and a Program of Study (POS) Committee. This committee, comprised of faculty from Apparel, Merchandising, and Design and other departments, will guide your course selection and research. Supporting courses outside the department and specific research methods are also integral parts of the curriculum.
- Year 1+
- Research Methods and Statistics (minimum 12 credits)
- 500-600 level AMD courses (minimum 20 credits, including AMD 570 teaching practicum)
- Additional courses outside the department (minimum 12 credits, including one in education theory)
- Dissertation (minimum 15 credits)
Careers
Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in industry, museums, or academia. The program focuses on developing research and analytical skills applicable to diverse career paths within the apparel, merchandising, and design field.
- Industry Professional
- Museum Curator/Specialist
- Academic Researcher
- Faculty Member
Frequently asked questions
- What are the minimum academic requirements to apply for the PhD in Apparel, Merchandising, and Design?
- You need a four-year Bachelor's degree or equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. If your undergraduate degree is not in Apparel, Merchandising, and Design, you may need to take supporting courses.
- What English proficiency test scores are accepted for international applicants?
- Iowa State University accepts TOEFL iBT (score of 100), IELTS (score of 7.5), PTE Academic (score of 68), or Duolingo (score of 120).
- How long does the PhD program typically take to complete?
- The program requires a minimum of 72 credits, with a significant portion dedicated to dissertation research.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Specific tuition amounts for international students are not provided; please consult the university's official 'Tuition and Fees' page for the most up-to-date information.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing this PhD program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Industry Professionals, Museum Curators/Specialists, Academic Researchers, or Faculty Members.
- Are there opportunities for scholarships available?
- Yes, Iowa State's OneApp scholarship portal is available for students to apply for various merit-based and need-based scholarships.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA four-year Bachelor's degree or equivalent is required. Students may need to take supporting courses if their undergraduate degree is not in Apparel, Merchandising, and Design.
GPAMinimum 3.0 GPA is generally required by the Graduate College. Specific programs may have different requirements.
TOEFL Internet (iBT)100
IELTS7.5
PTE Academic68
Duolingo120
International applicants must also submit a Financial Statement. Duolingo is temporarily accepted as an alternative to TOEFL/IELTS.
Fees
Tuition (international)Specific tuition amounts for international students are not provided on the program or finance pages. Please refer to the university's tuition and fees schedule for current rates.
Tuition (home)Specific tuition amounts for domestic students are not provided on the program or finance pages. Please refer to the university's tuition and fees schedule for current rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided. Please refer to the university's cost of attendance information.
Tuition rates vary by residency status, level of study, and program. It is recommended to consult the university's official 'Tuition and Fees' page for the most up-to-date information.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit an application through the Iowa State University Graduate College.
2. Provide Academic TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary institutions.
3. Meet English Proficiency RequirementsProvide scores from an accepted English proficiency test (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo).
4. Submit Program-Specific DocumentsThis may include a personal essay and resume. Check specific program requirements.
5. International Applicants: Financial StatementComplete and submit the required financial statement for international applicants.
6. Pay Application FeeA non-refundable application fee is typically required.
7. Await Admission DecisionApplications are reviewed by the program and the Graduate College.
Scholarships
General ScholarshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the minimum academic requirements to apply for the PhD in Apparel, Merchandising, and Design?
+
You need a four-year Bachelor's degree or equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. If your undergraduate degree is not in Apparel, Merchandising, and Design, you may need to take supporting courses.
What English proficiency test scores are accepted for international applicants?
+
Iowa State University accepts TOEFL iBT (score of 100), IELTS (score of 7.5), PTE Academic (score of 68), or Duolingo (score of 120).
How long does the PhD program typically take to complete?
+
The program requires a minimum of 72 credits, with a significant portion dedicated to dissertation research.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Specific tuition amounts for international students are not provided; please consult the university's official 'Tuition and Fees' page for the most up-to-date information.
What career paths can I pursue after completing this PhD program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Industry Professionals, Museum Curators/Specialists, Academic Researchers, or Faculty Members.
Are there opportunities for scholarships available?
+
Yes, Iowa State's OneApp scholarship portal is available for students to apply for various merit-based and need-based scholarships.