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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN

Design Science

On Campus MS or PhD

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Traditional science studies the world as we found it.
Design Science studies the world as we make it.

In the modern world, few design problems are simple. Some are complex. Many are highly complex. Simple solutions may be attractive and cost-effective, but they often don’t work. The field of Design Science addresses these problems, integrating the disciplines of engineering, design, psychology, and others to produce a coherent and systematic approach to real-world problem solving.

Only available on campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

On-Campus

World-Class Degree

Renowned Faculty

Learning Objectives

  • Develop expertise on the design of complex services, products, and systems at a range of organizations, including large manufacturers, financial services companies, tech startups, and non-profits.
  • Create novel design techniques and methods through rigorous scientific investigation to excel in academia, industry, and government research labs, or consulting roles.
  • Leverage a multitude of top-ten departments across schools and colleges at the University of Michigan, in areas that include engineering, business, medicine, information, social sciences, and the arts.

Master of Science in Design Science

Students who are drawn to interdisciplinary research, complex problem-solving, and creating meaningful change through design—especially those interested in theory-informed, research-based approaches—will find the program a strong fit. Students primarily interested in hands-on making or artistic design may find better alignment in other programs.

Doctor of Philosophy in Design Science

The Design Science PhD program leverages our novel integrative culture to produce unique leaders in design research, practice, and teaching.

The degree taught me how to take ideas from concept to execution, which is exactly what I do in my work now. It also trained me to look at problems through multiple lenses—technical, human, organizational—and that kind of holistic thinking is invaluable in a company as complex as Ford.
Peter Wacnik ‘23
MS, Design Science

7%

Career Growth

The design science field is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections.

46K

Job Postings

In 2024, there were 46,713 unique job postings in this field—demonstrating strong demand for design science professionals.

Source: Lightcast™ (2024). Unique job postings for 1/2024 to 1/2025.

Career Paths
of Our Graduates

Design Science graduates launch careers in roles such as:

  • Engineering Analyst
  • Biomechanist
  • Design Researcher
  • Mechanical Design Engineer
  • Model-Based Systems Engineer
  • Product Designer
  • Project Engineer
  • Research Scientist
  • Senior Strategy Consultant
  • UX Designer

Source: University of Michigan Engineering Career Resource Center

Top Companies
Hiring Our Graduates

Our alumni are making an impact at leading organizations, including:

  • Microsoft
  • Ford Motor Company
  • Honda
  • SAP
  • Deloitte
  • Nike
  • Lululemon
  • Procter & Gamble
  • Whirlpool
  • Georgia Tech Research Institute
  • Rice University
  • AGC Automotive Americas
  • Aisin Technical Center of America

Source: University of Michigan Engineering Career Resource Center

Articles & Interviews

Matt Pirone

Get Started

For more information about the Design Science Master and PhD programs – and admissions criteria – we invite you to contact our Recruitment & Engagement Coordinator.