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PhD Program

PhD in Design

Scholarly research is an important cornerstone that distinguishes professions from trades. Research and practice-oriented disciplines, like design, grow and remain relevant only if their professionals constantly contribute to and expand this body of knowledge.

Our Doctor of Philosophy in Design invites design practitioners and teachers, aspiring design researchers and experienced professionals with a passion for design — to proactively engage with and build into this growing body of design research. It urges introspective designers with years of practical experience to validate and formalize theories, tools and techniques within the scholarly framework. And encourages research in the fertile fields where design intersects with science, humanities, arts, and education.

To pursue a PhD here, your research must match our Faculty's areas of interest . As a first step, go through these and contact the concerned faculty to develop your proposed research.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and there is an opening for your area of research, you may complete the formalities of application through the IITB Admission Portal.

The commitment for our PhD is long term requiring a minimum of 3 to 4 years. Apart from strong commitment, you require good analytical abilities, excellent language skills, tenacity, self-motivation, and open-mindedness, along with humility and a willingness to learn.

For details on the timeline of PhD research work at IDC School of Design, refer to this page: PhD Timeline .

• PhD Course Structure

Encouraging design research in India, our course is currently flexible and inclusive. For details on the course structure and credit requirements, refer to this page:  PhD Course Structure .

Eligibility  To know about the eligibility criteria and the different PhD categories, refer to this page:  PhD Eligibility Criteria .

PhD Application

All formalities of admission must be done through the IIT Bombay website. For all details related to the admission and application process, please visit the PhD Admission page: PhD Admission - IDC School of Design

IDC accepts applications through IITB-Monash PhD Program as well. For details regarding the program, please visit: IITB-Monash PhD Program .

Future Prospects

Our PhD scholars go on to become teachers and mentors. Many build careers in academics or design research. Some develop business ideas or design methods, while others pursue post-doctoral research.

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 PhD Program

The Department of Design offers robust full-time and part-time Ph.D. programmes which can be inter-disciplinary in nature. The Ph.D. program encourages researching design from multiple perspectives such as Technology, Humanities, Management, Sociology, Psychology, etc. to name a few  domains.

The Department of Design offers opportunities in the following Research domains pertaining to Design: Industrial Design, Product Design, Interaction Design, Graphic Design, Communication Design, Applied Ergonomics and Human Factors in Design, Universal and Inclusive Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Design Automation, Materials & Design, Design for Product Life-Cycle, Art & Design, Product Aesthetics, Digital.

Media & Design, Design & Culture, Animation, Film making, Digital Heritage, Neuro-cognitive aspects of Creativity, Creativity and Innovation, Design Theory & Methodology, Design Policy, Design Strategy, and Design Management.

Department of Design, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi

Hauz Khas, New Delhi, Delhi 110016

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 011-26548731

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School of Design       

Admission to phd program in design, ay 2024-25.

IIT Jodhpur invites applications for admission to the PhD Program in Design offered by the School of Design for the semester commencing in July 2024.

Overview: The PhD program in Design at the School of Design, IIT Jodhpur, will encourage the participation of design practitioners, teachers, and aspiring design researchers in getting involved in design research activities and expanding the existing body of knowledge. The program will focus on conducting design research and projects in the overlapping fields of technology, science, engineering, humanities, education, arts and crafts through an interdisciplinary approach.

A. CATEGORIES OF ADMISSION

A candidate can be admitted in any one of the following categories.

• Full-time regular
• Full-time sponsored
• Part-time (online)
• Indian Nationals Residing Abroad (INRA) and Foreign Nationals

An in-campus student who can register for up to full credit permissible per semester. A student supported by a project of the institute will be considered a full-time regular student.

An in-campus student who can register for up to full credit permissible per semester. The candidate is sponsored by his/her employer. A sponsored candidate must have two years of relevant industrial/R&D/academic experience.

A part-time student is a working professional who, while employed, attends regular classes as per the schedule of the institute. The student must produce an NOC from the employer for pursuing the programme at IIT Jodhpur. The student must be employed in the neighborhood of IIT Jodhpur. The student can register only for a limited number of credits as compared to a full-time regular student.

A student working in an industry/R&D establishment/academic institution which is equipped with the necessary research and library facilities. The employer must relieve the student to stay on the campus to complete the minimum residency requirements.

A part-time (online) student is a working professional who, while employed, attends classes in a synchronous audio-visual mode as per the schedule of the Institute including limited contact sessions. The student is expected to register for a limited number of credits per semester. The student will need to spend at least 12 months on the campus before submission of the PhD thesis distributed over the entire period of the programme as per the academic requirements. The student must produce an NOC from the employer for pursuing the programme at IIT Jodhpur, certifying that the employer will also provide access to resources for the proper execution of the research work.

An Indian National who must have been residing abroad continuously for at least one year at the time of applying for admission are eligible for admissions under INRA category. Candidates who holds foreign passports (including those with OCI or PIO cards) are eligible to apply for admission as foreign candidates.

Admission to Ph.D. Program (Regular)

• Candidates admitted in this category shall not be a registered student in any other academic program in India or abroad, and shall not be a full-time or part-time employee of any organization in India or abroad.

The applicant must have a master’s degree in engineering, pharmacy, agricultural science, science, humanities, social sciences, management, design, architecture, fine arts or equivalent with at least 60% marks or at least 6.0/10 CPI or CGPA for GEN/GEN-EWS/OBC (55% for SC/ST),

The applicant must have a bachelor’s degree of minimum four-year duration in engineering or science or medicine or pharmacy or agricultural science or veterinary science or design or architecture or fine arts or equivalent with at least 70% marks or at least 7.0/10 CPI or CGPA for GEN/OBC (65% for SC/ST).

Admission to Ph.D. (sponsored/external/part-time)

• Candidates admitted in this category shall not be a registered student in any other academic program in India or abroad.
• The applicant must have a minimum of two years of work experience (after qualifying degree) in industry/R&D laboratories/Academic Institutions at the time of registration to the program.
• The applicant must qualify written test and/or interview conducted by IIT Jodhpur.

B. ADMISSION PROCEDURE

• Candidates can apply for the PhD program in Design through the IITJ PG Admission Portal: Apply Now (https://erponline.iitj.ac.in/Admission/index?admiss_ch=54)
• Applications will be shortlisted based on the candidate’s Academic Records, Work Experience, Statement of Purpose (SoP)*, Research Proposal (RP)*, etc.
• Shortlisted candidates may need to appear for an interview and written test/studio test, or both.
• Candidates are highly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the research areas of the faculty members before applying.
• For more details on application procedures and requirements, please refer to the official guidelines.

*Use the link: https://tinyurl.com/bdzm6nc8 to download the instructions for the Statement of Purpose (SoP) and Research Proposal (RP).

Candidates are highly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the research areas of the faculty members before applying. Prospective students should get in touch with specific professors at the School of Design to talk about their research interests and gain a better understanding of the current research focus. It is highly recommended that candidates get in touch with the faculty members to establish their research interests prior to applying (a list of faculties accepting PhD candidates for the current academic year is given below).

Application Fees

Applicants belonging to the GEN-UR, GEN-EWS, and OBC categories are required to pay a processing fee of Rs. 300 online, while SC, ST, and PD applicants need to pay Rs. 150 during the submission of their application forms.

In case of any technical query with respect to the online application, applicants may contact the ERP Team ( [email protected] ).

General queries may be directed - between 10.00 a.m. and 5.00 p.m. on working days - to the following:

Office of School of Design, Phone Number: 0291-280-1782

Email: [email protected]

C. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

A regular PhD student admitted to the institute will be eligible for financial assistance as per the norms of IIT Jodhpur. The regular PhD students will have to perform teaching/lab assistance duties in addition to pursuing their research.

The eligibility criteria for financial assistance are as per the following:

• A candidate having B.Tech./B.Des./B.Arch./B.F.A./B.S.(four-year program)/Master's degree with GATE/CEED/NET(JRF)/NBHM (or equivalent) can have financial assistance as per MHRD norms.
• The requirement of GATE is exempted for an applicant with M.Tech. or equivalent post-Bachelor’s degree.
• A student may be exempted from GATE/CEED as per MHRD guidelines.
• The requirement of CEED is exempted for an applicant with B.Tech./B.Des./B.Arch./B.F.A./M.Des./M.Arch./M.Tech./M.S. degree/PG Diploma from an IIT, NIT, IIIT, NID, NIFT, SPA, IISc or an equivalent institute. These candidates must have at least 80% marks or at least 8.0/10 CPI or CGPA for GEN/OBC (65% for SC/ST) during their graduate and/or postgraduate degree.

D. RESERVATION POLICY

The norms of reservation for different categories shall be adopted as laid down by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

E. IMPORTANT DATES

F. FEE STRUCTURE

Fee structure for Academic Year 2024-25

G. ACADEMIC CALENDAR

Academic Calendar for Academic Year 2024-25 Semester-I

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PhD Programme

Programme overview.

The field of design having an intrinsic multidisciplinary character has a very large and broad base of students from various disciplines. Master and Bachelor Students from IITK and other equivalent institutes, aiming at a broad interdisciplinary research in design, matching the research interests and disciplines of the participating faculty members, are eligible for admission to the Ph.D. programme.

Who can Apply?

Please refer to the IIT Kanpur official page for the updated requirement and eligibility criteria

Our curriculum is multifaceted as well. It draws in knowledge from all areas relevant to a designer; design- thinking, science and technology, user experience, communication, business logic, and sustainability.

Our Areas of Research (not limited to)

• Product and industrial design
• Human Machine Interaction
• Music Technology
• Mobility design
• Visual communication
• Engineering design
• User Experience design
• Interaction design
• Film making
• Systems design
• Design theory
• Design management

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Autonmous Navigation Rover

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Ph.D. in Design (Regular)

A regular full-time Ph.D. in Design provides a platform to pursue practice-based /led research in art, design, and culture.

• Practice-based Research is an original investigation undertaken in order to gain new knowledge partly by means of practice and the outcomes of the practice.
• Practice-led Research is concerned with the nature of practice and leads to new knowledge that has operational significance for that practice. The main focus of the research is to advance knowledge about practice or to advance knowledge within practice. In a doctoral thesis, the results of practice-led research may be fully described in text form without the inclusion of a creative outcome.

Research Areas

Architectural Design & Sustainability / Architect-Client stories/issues/narratives / Architecture in the Courthouse / Architectural Theory

Design Education/ Design Theory and Methodologies / Game based learning for school education

Digital Heritage / Architectural Ornaments of Northeast India / Heritage Architecture & Digital Experience Design (Creating Digital Immersive Heritage Experience, Risk Assessment and Vernacular Architecture Analysis of Five Historically Significant Temple Marvels of Kashi) / Documenting and Designing Folklore and Culture for Future Generations

Drone & Mobility Design / Urban aerial mobility design / Design and development of autonomous urban vehicles

Visual & Animation Design / Photography & Art and Design / Typography & Type Design

AI and Art / AI and Design / Chat GPT and Design / Human Computer Interaction / IoT Design / System Design & New Media Design

Computer Aided Design / Virtual Reality and Haptics / Usability and user experience of advanced interfaces with different modalities of interaction / Understanding the role of affect and cognition in Design processes / Teaching learning methods through AR/VR and MR for school education

Ph.D. Program (Interdisciplinary)

Interdisciplinary (ID) PhD program for enthusiastic aspirants exploring the interface of various science and engineering disciplines. The interdisciplinary Ph.D. program is coordinated by the Center for Interdisciplinary Programs (CIP).

The application can be made through PhD admission portal.

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• Doctor of Philosophy in Design

The Ph.D. in Design at the Institute of Design is an exemplary program of coursework and academic research in an international environment for supporting top candidates in the field. We have an outstanding record of achievement by our alumni, many of whom are engaged at the highest levels of research and teaching. The Ph.D. leads to a dissertation that will extend the body of knowledge in design theory and process.

Requirements

The Ph.D. candidate must have a master’s degree in an area relevant to design. The program requires a minimum of three years of study beyond the master’s degree. For the first four semesters, students must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours at the Institute of Design. Satisfactory reading knowledge of Chinese, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish must be met before the student applies to take the comprehensive examination.

The program begins with three or four semesters primarily of coursework with some research credit hours, followed by a qualifying exam based on the courses. After passing the qualifying exam, the student continues to work on a research proposal that demonstrates sufficient understanding of the research area, a novel significant concept as a basis for Ph.D. research, and well-organized research methods and processes. A Ph.D. examination committee will then be formed to approve the proposal during the comprehensive exam. Upon completion of the dissertation, the Ph.D. candidate will present the research results to the examination committee for the degree to be granted by the university.

Total: 92 credit hours Coursework: 44 credit hours (including maximum 32 credit hours transferrable from master’s program) Language examination Comprehensive examination Dissertation research: 48 credit hours

48 credit hours The research component starts small and grows as the student progresses through his or her candidacy. The dissertation created from this work is intended to create a substantial and original contribution to design knowledge. Typically, 12 credit hours are earned over the first three terms; the remainder is earned over, at minimum, three additional terms.

44 credit hours Coursework includes credit hours transferable from the master’s program. The maximum credit hours transferrable is 32. Classes include full- or half-semester courses selected from the university’s course offerings to complement objectives of the student’s program. Most coursework credits are earned within the first three terms of enrollment.

All students must meet with their academic advisers at least once a semester during their program of study. Each meeting should be scheduled prior to course registration for the following semester. All incoming students are assigned an adviser at the time of admission. If the required advising meeting is not completed in a particular semester, an academic hold will be placed on the student's record preventing any course registration for the following semester. The hold cannot be removed until the student has completed the advising meeting. Please see the Ph.D. program director if with any questions or if your assigned adviser is not available.

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• Design (M.Des.)

IIT Institute of Design's Master of Design program is a two-year degree for people who want to become strategic designers and make a significant impact in the private, public, or nonprofit sectors.

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Founded by László Moholy-Nagy as The New Bauhaus in 1937, IIT Institute of Design (ID) is known for pioneering human-centered design and systems design. We believe today’s designers must move fluidly between strategic thinking and creative doing.

ID’s STEM-designated Master of Design program is a two-year degree for people who want to become strategic designers. Through collaborative projects, students learn to build offerings and service systems that address complex business, civic, and social challenges. Exploring options through rigorous prototyping and critique, students identify directions that provide value, prompt action, and support sustainable change. Upon graduation, students are ready to make a significant impact in the private, public, or nonprofit sector.

Students with no formal design training are encouraged to apply. Accepted students join a cohort of people from around the world with varying disciplinary backgrounds.

Program Overview

The Master of Design is a two-year degree for people who want to become strategic designers. Through collaborative projects, students build offerings and service systems that address complex business, civic, and social challenges. Students with no formal design training are encouraged to apply.

Career Opportunities

Our students enjoy more than a 90 percent placement rate within six months of graduation.

Employers come to campus in the fall and spring for recruitID, when students can interview for internship and career opportunities. Through regular careerID programming, students receive ongoing support and guidance on the hiring process and in planning their professional paths.

ID alumni become leaders across the private and public sectors, serving at the director and executive level in roles like:

• UX designer
• Innovation consultant
• Design strategist
• Design researcher
• Entrepreneur
• Interaction designer
• Product designer
• Service designer

Eighty percent of a student’s path through the full-time M.Des. curriculum is their choice—that is, electives make up the greater part of the educational experience. Guided by faculty advisors and their own interests, students create their own unique paths through the ID curriculum. The M.Des. program is a full-time, in-residence program, and takes four semesters (one additional semester with the Foundation program) to complete.

View Details

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and are required to submit transcript(s), full mark sheets, and degree/diploma certificates from each institution attended—regardless of whether or not a degree was earned—as well as three letters of recommendation, a portfolio, statement of interest, and a resume or curriculum vitae. There is no minimum work experience requirement, although two to four years of professional experience is preferred. ID considers full-time internships, volunteer work, and freelance projects as formal work experience. TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for any applicant with an undergraduate degree from an institution where the primary language of instruction is not English. We do not require a GRE or GMAT score for any application. However, if you have a score you would like to submit we are happy to include that in your application evaluation. We will accept either the GRE or the GMAT.

I was looking for a more impactful career–my goal was to learn to design products, services, and experiences that help people. ID is one of the only graduate design schools that accepts non-designers, equips them with design skills, and builds them into multifaceted designers.

Justin Walker (M.Des. Candidate)

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M.Des. student Lizzy Engele co-founded MakerGirl, a nonprofit organization that aims to get young girls interested in STEM fields.

Designing Reform

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Improving Community Spaces

ID students and faculty worked with Boxville to imagine a new future for the Bronzeville community space.

Defining Good Design

Working with Fortune Magazine, ID faculty and students surveyed design experts to rank the greatest designs of the modern era.

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How to Get Into IIT Delhi? What are the Different Ways? (For UG, PG, and PhD Programs) Includes the Aftermath of Admission

• Updated on  
• May 24, 2024

In India, IIT Delhi is a model of academic excellence and attracts candidates looking to become engineers, scientists, and designers.  As a beginner, you might wonder whether you are eligible to apply to this prestigious institute in the first place, and if you should take the appropriate entrance exams and tips to enhance your application. 

Here’s a guide that outlines the steps you need to take to get accepted into various undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Whether you are interested in B.Tech specialisations, pursuing advanced research in one of the M.Sc or M.Tech programs, or starting a PhD program, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information to make your IIT Delhi aspirations a reality.

Table of Contents

• 1 IIT Delhi Ranking
• 2 Latest Updates
• 3 Why Choose IIT Delhi? 
• 4.1 Undergraduate Level Program (UG)
• 4.2 Postgraduate Level Program (PG)
• 4.3 Doctoral Level Program (PhD)
• 5 Ways to Get in IIT Delhi
• 6.1 Stages (JEE Mains & JEE Advance)
• 6.2 JEE Result and Cut-Off
• 6.3 Exam Cut Off
• 6.4 IIT Delhi Cut-Off 
• 6.5 JEE Seat Allotment 
• 6.6 Wait for your Acceptance in IIT Delhi
• 7.1 Hostel Room Selection
• 7.2 Fee Payment – 1st Semester

IIT Delhi Ranking

India’s Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, commonly referred to as IIT Delhi, consistently ranks among the world’s elite institutions. As part of this guide, we explore IIT Delhi’s ranking, looking at its placements within prestigious rankings nationwide, including the NIRF, and internationally, such as THE and QS. We’ll talk about its reputation in a variety of fields, focusing on its strengths in engineering, research, and employability. After reading this section, you will have a clear understanding of the remarkable position IIT Delhi holds within the academic world.

Latest Updates

• The IIT JAM cutoff for Round 1 in 2024 will be announced publicly on May 31, 2024 , and there will be no more seats available until June 4, 2024 .
• The GATE result for 2024 has been released, and now qualified individuals can sign up for the COAP counselling round for M.Tech entry. On May 13, 2024 , at 10 a.m., the GATE COAP Round 1 Seat Allotment should be made public. For Round 1, you have until May 15, 2024 , before 9 AM to make your choice.
• We now have the results for JEE Main Session 2. Individuals who took the test can check their scores and download them from the official NTA website.
• Between April 27, 2024 , and May 7, 2024 , you will be able to sign up for the IIT Delhi JEE Advanced 2024. The JEE Advanced 2024 Exam will also happen on May 26, 2024 .
• The UCEED Round 2 Seat Allotment Result will be made public on May 10, 2024 .
• The CEED 2024 scores for getting into M.Des have been made public. On the official website, people who took the test can use their email address and password to join in and see their scores.
• Registration for the IIT Delhi JoSAA counselling program is likely to begin on June 10, 2024 .

Why Choose IIT Delhi? 

There are many reasons why IIT Delhi might be a good choice for you, depending on your academic goals and interests. Here are some of the top reasons students choose IIT Delhi.

• Academic Excellence: Consistently ranked among the top engineering and technology universities in India and the world. It means a degree from IIT Delhi is well-respected by employers worldwide.
• Strong Faculty: IIT Delhi has a faculty of leading researchers and industry professionals, many with experience at top universities around the world. This means you’ll be learning from the best in the field.
• Excellent Placement Record: IIT Delhi graduates are in high demand by top companies, both in India and abroad. The IIT Delhi has a strong placement record of around 84.94% in 2023, with many students securing high-paying jobs after graduation.
• Campus Life: IIT Delhi offers an energetic campus life with a variety of extracurricular activities, clubs, and events. The annual cultural festival, Rendezvous, is one of the largest in India.
• Research Opportunities: IIT Delhi is a leading research institution in India, with opportunities for students to get involved in the best research projects. This is a great way to gain valuable experience and develop your research skills.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Being an Institute of National Importance, IIT Delhi offers various scholarships and financial aid options to help students from all backgrounds afford an education there https://home.iitd.ac.in/ .

Also Read: MBA In IITs: Everything You Need To Know

Levels of Programs in IIT Delhi

The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, or IIT Delhi, is a famous institution that offers a range of academic programs at different levels. IIT Delhi can help you reach your goals, whether you’re a high school student graduate looking for a challenging college education or a working professional wanting to learn more about a specific area through advanced studies. This prestigious institute offers programs at the bachelor, graduate, and doctoral levels, giving students access to the latest information and encouraging intellectual growth in a wide range of disciplines.

Undergraduate Level Program (UG)

Getting into an undergraduate program at IIT Delhi is a competitive process, but with good preparation and planning, you can increase your chances of success in getting admission. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps.

Eligibility Requirements

• Class 12th Passed: You’ll need to have passed your Class 12 board exams from a recognized board with a minimum score of 75% or above.

Entrance Exams

• JEE Main: This is the first screening test. Qualifying in JEE Main is mandatory to appear for JEE Advanced.
• JEE Advanced: This is the highly competitive entrance exam for admission to IITs. Your rank in JEE Advanced determines which programs and IITs you qualify for.

UCEED for B.Des: For the B.Des program, you’ll need to take the Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design (UCEED).

Postgraduate Level Program (PG)

Getting into a PG program at IIT Delhi involves meeting eligibility requirements, entrance exams, and potentially an interview. Here’s a breakdown of the whole process for the PG Level.

• Check the specific program you’re interested in on the IIT Delhi website at https://home.iitd.ac.in/pg-admissions.php . Each postgraduate program will have its requirements for things like minimum marks in your undergraduate degree.
• Many PG programs require entrance exams like GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) for technical programs or CEED (Common Entrance Examination for Design) for design programs. Some programs might have their own written exams.

Application Process

• Once you confirm eligibility and exam requirements, apply online during the application window mentioned on the website.
• You’ll need to submit documents like transcripts, mark sheets, exam scores (if applicable), and a statement of purpose.

Shortlisting and Interview

• Based on your application and exam scores, shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview to assess their suitability for the program.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

Doctoral Level Program (PhD)

Earning a PhD at IIT Delhi is a competitive process, but here’s a roadmap to increase your chances.

• IIT Delhi offers full-time and part-time PhD programs.
• Master’s degree in Engineering/Technology/Science/Humanities (60% marks or 6.0 CGPA) with a qualifying score in GATE/CSIR/UGC NET/ICAR/ICMR/DST-INSPIRE Fellowship exam.
• B.Tech/B.E. (70% marks or 7.0 CGPA) with a qualifying score in the above exams.
• Part-time and sponsored full-time programs have work experience requirements and different eligibility criteria.
• Applications are typically advertised in March and October for semesters starting in July and January respectively.
• The application process is usually online. You’ll need to submit transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining your research interests, and recommendation letters.

Selection Process

• Shortlisted candidates are called for an interview by the Departmental Research Committee (DRC)  or Centre Research Committee (CRC).
• Some departments may conduct written tests for screening as well.
• The interview focuses on your academic background, research interests, and potential fit within the department’s ongoing research projects.

Ways to Get in IIT Delhi

Getting into IIT Delhi is a competitive process, but with dedication and the right approach, you can increase your chances. Here’s a breakdown of different programs.

For Undergraduate Programs (B.Tech, B.Des)

• For B.Tech crack the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main and Advanced.  
• For admission to the Bachelor of Design (B.Des) program, you’ll need a good score in the Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design (UCEED).
• Secure at least 75% marks in your Class 12 board exams (or 65% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) in the Science stream (PCM – Physics, Chemistry, Maths) for B.Tech and a relevant background for B.Des.

For Postgraduate Programs (M.Tech, M.Sc, MBA)

• Admission to Master of Technology (M.Tech) programs is based on the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) score.
• For Master of Science (M.Sc) programs, you’ll need to appear for the Joint Entrance Examination (JAM) –  MSc.
• Admission to the MBA program is based on the Common Admission Test (CAT) score.
• Maintain a good academic record in your undergraduate studies.
• Shortlisted candidates might be called for interviews or written tests depending on the program.

For PhD Programs

• A Master’s degree in a relevant field with a qualifying score in GATE/CSIR/UGC NET or similar exams is required for full-time PhD programs.
• Identify a specific research area and professors at IIT Delhi whose expertise aligns with your interests.

Also Read: Top Universities in India

Through JEE – Admission Process of IIT Delhi

IIT Delhi uses the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) system for admissions into their undergraduate Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) programs. Here’s a breakdown of the IIT Delhi B.Tech Admission process via JEE.

Stages (JEE Mains & JEE Advance)

• The first stage is the JEE Main exam, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
• It’s a computer-based online exam testing your knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
• Qualifying in JEE Main is mandatory to be eligible for JEE Advanced.

JEE Advance

• Only the top-scoring candidates in JEE Main are eligible to appear for JEE Advanced.
• JEE Advanced is conducted by the organizing IIT for that year (IIT Delhi may conduct it some years).
• It’s a more challenging exam compared to JEE Main, further testing your problem-solving abilities and subject knowledge.

JoSAA Counselling

• After the JEE Advanced results, the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) conducts counselling.
• Based on your JEE Advanced rank,  you fill preferences for IITs, NITs, and other institutes.
• Seat allocation considers your rank, category, and institute preferences.

If you’re allocated a seat at IIT Delhi based on your rank and preferences, you’ll be required to report to the institute for document verification and complete the admission process.

JEE Result and Cut-Off

The wait is over for JEE aspirants. The results for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced have been released, the way for admissions to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), including IIT Delhi. For those who want to go to IIT Delhi, the cut-off scores will be very important because there are only a few spots available. The level of competition will be shown by this year’s cut-offs, which will be very helpful for students who want to ace JEE and get into IIT Delhi next year.

Exam Cut Off

There isn’t one single JEE exam cut-off for IIT Delhi. This is because there are two stages to the entrance exam process for undergraduate programs: JEE Main and JEE Advanced. Here’s a breakdown of JEE cutoffs for IIT Delhi.

IIT Delhi Cut-Off 

There isn’t a single JEE cut-off for IIT Delhi because there are two stages to the admission process: JEE Main and JEE Advanced, the JEE Advanced cutoff for IIT Delhi ranged between 118 and 6690 . Here’s how IIT Delhi cut-offs work.

JEE Main Cut-Off (Qualifying Exam)

• This cut-off percentile, set by the National Testing Agency (NTA), determines your eligibility for JEE Advanced.
• It varies by category (General, EWS, OBC, SC, ST) and exam difficulty each year.

JEE Advanced Cut-Off (IIT Delhi Admissions)

• This cut-off, based on your JEE Advanced rank, determines admission into IIT Delhi’s B.Tech programs.
• The higher your rank, the better your chances.
• Program: Different specializations (CS, Mechanical Engineering) have varying demands and difficulties, leading to different cut-offs.
• Category: Seats are reserved for different categories, so cut-offs differ for General, EWS, OBC, SC, and ST.
• Seat Availability: The number of seats available for a program influences the cut-off.

Here is a table of JEE Advanced Last Round Closing Rank as of the 2023 academic year.

For 5-Year B.Tech + M.Tech (Integrated)

JEE Seat Allotment 

JEE itself doesn’t handle seat allotment. After appearing for JEE Main and scoring well enough to qualify (clearing the cut-off percentile), you become eligible to participate in the seat allotment process for admissions into various institutes, including IITs. Here’s how JEE seat allotment works.

• Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA): This is the centralized authority that manages seat allotment for IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other GFTIs based on your JEE Main and JEE Advanced ranks.
• JoSAA Counselling: You’ll need to register for JoSAA counselling after the JEE results are declared.
• Filling Choices: During counselling, you fill out choices in order of preference, indicating the IITs, NITs, and other institutes you’d like to be admitted to, along with their specific programs (e.g., B.Tech in Computer Science at IIT Delhi).
• Seat Allotment: JoSAA uses a complex algorithm to consider your rank, category, and choices of all candidates to allot seats.

Wait for your Acceptance in IIT Delhi

If you applied to IIT Delhi or another university, you might be waiting for an acceptance letter. This can be a stressful time but try to stay patient. IIT Delhi typically have a deadline by which they will notify applicants of their decisions. 

If You Cross all these Hurdles! Congratulations you will find yourself celebrating that you got into IIT Delhi… Go call your relatives. 

The Aftermath of the Admissions Process

The aftermath of the IIT Delhi admissions process can be quite exciting and stressful, depending on the outcome. Here’s a breakdown of what you might experience.

• You’ll receive an official offer letter from IIT Delhi outlining the steps to accept the offer and submit any required documents. This might include transcripts, medical certificates, and acceptance fees.
• You might need to apply for hostel accommodation if you’re planning to live on campus.
• IIT Delhi might conduct online orientation sessions or provide resources to help you prepare for academics, campus life, and the transition to IIT Delhi.
• There might be online forums or social media groups for incoming students to connect with each other and get to know their future classmates.

Hostel Room Selection

Unfortunately, freshmen at IIT Delhi generally don’t get to choose their specific hostel room.  Here’s what you can expect regarding hostel room selection at IIT Delhi.

• Room Allocation:   IIT Delhi uses a random allotment process to assign hostel rooms to freshmen. This is done to promote interaction among students from different backgrounds and year groups.
• Room Sharing:  Freshmen are typically placed in double or triple-occupancy rooms, depending on the hostel.
• Hostel Selection (Possible): While room selection isn’t available, there might be a chance to choose your hostel based on preferences (though not guaranteed). However, the main focus is on room occupancy within the hostels.

Fee Payment – 1st Semester

Here’s what you can expect regarding fee payment for the 1st semester at IIT Delhi. The specific fees you’ll pay depend on several factors, including.

• Program: Fees differ for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs.
• Category: Indian Nationals (General, OBC, EWS), PIO (Person of Indian Origin), and OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) card holders, and Foreign Students have different fee structures.

IIT Delhi uses a web portal called “ePAY IIT Delhi” for online fee payment. This portal allows you to pay fees using various methods like net banking, debit cards, and credit cards. While paying fees online, you might need to upload scanned copies of documents like your admit card or acceptance letter.

Also Read: Top MBA Colleges in India

Yes, it is very hard to get into IIT Delhi for BTech.

Other tests, such as CAT, CEED, and GATE, can help you get into IIT without having to take the JEE.

The minimum score for JEE Advanced is between 115 and 6100 for the first round.

RELATED BLOGS

This was all about the “ How to Get Into IIT Delhi ”. For more such informative blogs, check out our Indian University page.

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List of shortlisted candidates for PhD admissions July 2024 session NEW

Note: New information and/or announcement will be added at the top of the page from time to time.

Information related to Hostel Accommodation

Hostel accommodation for Ph.D candidates ( List of Candidates ) from 10th -15th  June 2024 is as under:

96  Males: Lohit Hostel  (occupancy as available)

09 Females: Subansiri Hostel  (occupancy as available)

The candidates need to pay hostel room rent @ Rs 200 per day per pax in advance . (Room rent once paid is not refundable)

Payment Details:

Account Name: HAB Receipts A/c No: 8652101029343 IFSC: CNRB0008652 Bank and Branch: Canara Bank, IIT Guwahati Branch

Hostel Staffs & Security Desk shall ensure the payments made by the candidates at the time of room allotment/ Check-in. Departments/Schools/Centers will not collect payment from the students/candidates/participants.

(Room rent is exclusive of bedrolls. For this, concerned has to contact respective hostel stationery shop/other vendors)

List of shortlisted candidates for PhD admissions July 2024 session:

• Regular/Non-Regular candidates --- Download
• Interdisciplinary candidates --- Download
• JD-BHU candidates ---- Download
• Dual Degree (M.Tech + PhD) candidates --- Download

Instructions for regular and non-regular candidates including IATMLA and Dual Degree candidates

Please read the following instructions carefully regarding interview and selection of interview panel for regular and non-regular studentships.

• There are three interview panels: (1) Fluids and Thermal Panel (2) Machine Design Panel and (3) Manufacturing and Materials Panel corresponding to the three PhD specializations available in the department.
• Panel choice forms are attached herewith to provide your choice.
• A candidate who has been shortlisted for the interview (offline) and has M.Tech/M.E/MS(R) degree must select only one panel out of the three interview panels as stated above. The candidate will be interviewed only in that panel. Once selected a panel for the interview, in no circumstances it will be changed.
• A candidate who has been shortlisted for the interview (offline) and has only B.Tech/B.E degree and doesn’t have M.Tech/M.E/MS(R) degree are allowed to appear for interview in all the three interview panels (if they wish so) as stated above. This is also true for the Dual Degree (M. Tech + PhD) candidates. These candidates shall submit the panel form of their first choice. After coming to IIT Guwahati, remaining two panel options will be taken.
• The following four instructions are specifically for IATMLA test candidates. Others may please ignore.
• Each IATMLA candidate mandatorily write the offline examination by choosing one of the three papers (a) Fluids and Thermal Engineering (b) Machine Design and (c) Manufacturing and Materials.
• The syllabus for all the above three papers is available at https://iitg.ac.in/acad/admission/doctoral/studentship.php
• If you choose Fluids and Thermal Engineering panel, then you must write Fluids and Thermal Engineering paper in IATMLA test. Similarly, if you choose Machine Design panel then you must write Machine Design paper in IATMLA test and so on. Thus your interview panel automatically fixes your paper in IATMLA test. In no circumstances incompatible IATMLA paper and interview panels are allowed.
• All IATMLA candidates must bring their non-programmable calculators. No calculator will be provided by IIT Guwahati. In no case mobile phones are allowed to use as the calculators. Barrowing calculators from other candidates in the examination hall is not allowed. Mobile phones are not allowed inside the examination hall.

To assist you in selection of a panel and to know the list of faculty members in each panel (specialization), the candidates are strongly suggested to do the following

• Please click here to know the list of faculty members available in a particular specialization along with research topics published in the advertisement.
• Visit the webpage ( https://www.iitg.ac.in/mech ) for understanding typical topics/research areas generally covered under (1) Thermal and Fluid Engineering (2) Machine Design Engineering and (3) Manufacturing and Materials Engineering specializations of the department.
• Visit the faculty profiles in the webpage ( https://www.iitg.ac.in/mech/faculty/ ) to know more about research carried out by the faculty members listed in each specialization.
• If a candidate is given admission , then the candidate need to select supervisor(s) from the list of faculty members associated with the panel in which the candidate appeared for the interview (see below) and work on the research topic of that panel specialization. Selection of supervisor is based on the mutual consent of the candidate and the faculty members.

Once you have decided your interview panel, download the Panel Selection Form corresponding to your choice of interview panel.

Form No. 1: Fluids and Thermal Panel Form

Form No. 2: Machine Design Panel Form

Form No. 3: Manufacturing and Materials Panel Form

Please completely fill up the selected interview panel form without leaving any information blank and put your signature, date and place. Please do not forget give your email ID and mobile phone number. Convert the duly filled form(s) into a single PDF file with the name of the file must be your name. Upload the duly filled and signed PDF form in the following Google Form (whose link is given below).

https://forms.gle/nuRYwWD1wXnNhaLH7

• The last date for uploading the panel form in the above google form is 06 JUNE 2024, 11:59 PM.
• All shortlisted candidates are strongly advised to visit the following departmental webpage time to time to know the updates/instructions/results etc. on the PhD Admission Process.

https://iitg.ac.in/mech/news-and-announcements/list-of-shortlisted-candidates-for-phd-admissions-july-2024-session/

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Doctorate in Sustainability – PhD (Online)*

Career paths, residencies.

• Faculty & Staff

Tuition & Fees

Emerge as an innovative leader in the field of sustainability to address socio-ecological resilience, climate change, water scarcity, food insecurity, environmental policy, economic justice, and more.

At a Glance

For the program beginning summer 2025

Residency Locations

Portugal, Tanzania

Priority Deadline

November 1, 2024, followed by rolling admissions

Final Deadline

January 31, 2025

Critical Global Issue of Study

Climate & Environment

Development & Inequality

Program Cost

Why a phd in sustainability from sit.

Developed for professionals working to create a more sustainable future, PhD in Sustainability students will investigate the social, ecological, technical, and political dimensions of sustainable transformations, the relationship of science and society in advancing more sustainable futures, and novel and inclusive approaches to community-based problem solving and sustainable development.

This online program is complemented by two 10-day international residencies across four years of part-time study. During the first-year residency, students will immerse themselves in Lisbon, Portugal, a beacon of progress in renewable energy innovation, marine conservation, and sustainability. During the second-year residency, students transition from theory to hands-on exploration through unique case studies in Tanzania’s Zanzibar Archipelago, which is at the forefront of blue economy initiatives.

Students will develop skills in research, organizational leadership, policy development, and communication in order to contribute to climate change mitigation, advocate for social equity, and innovate sustainable business practices for economic prosperity. Graduates of the program will be prepared to lead multi-stakeholder groups as they will be effective communicators in policy circles, academic and organizational contexts, and in popular science.  

SIT’s global faculty bring experience in both teaching and mentorship and applied work in many facets of sustainability, from integrative conservation, climate change, food security, environmental governance, and sustainable business and technology. With SIT’s global network and long history of experiential learning, students will gain a unique global perspective they can apply to their careers.

This program is ideal for professionals enthusiastic about producing evidence-based analysis to investigate the social and ecological dimensions of sustainable transformations, the relationship of science and society in advancing more sustainable futures, and novel and inclusive approaches to community-based problem solving and sustainable development. Career paths may include:

Climate and environment analyst

Lead sustainability designer or director

Energy policy advisor

Regenerative systems specialist

Green tech innovator

Sustainability curriculum designer

University faculty

Leadership and research roles in academic, government, NGO, and business

Read about SIT Graduate Institute alumni careers through the SIT blog and our Career Impact page.

First-Year Residency: Lisbon, Portugal

A beacon of progress in renewable energy innovation, marine conservation, and sustainability, Portugal offers a vibrant environment of breathtaking coastlines and majestic mountainous regions that will serve as your classroom. During this 10-day residency, students will explore and contribute to areas such as marine conservation, renewable energy innovations, and sustainable agriculture practices.

The program base, Lisbon, received the 2020 European Green Capital Award. The city surpassed its 2030 target for carbon emissions reduction in 2016 and aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Second-Year Residency: Zanzibar, Tanzania

Transition from theory to hands-on exploration through case studies in the Zanzibar Archipelago, which is at the forefront of blue economy initiatives. This 10-day residency serves as a cornerstone for grounding the program themes and tools in real-world applications, where your research becomes a powerful catalyst for positive change.

Go beyond the classroom to contribute to solutions for sustainability challenges, particularly related to food production and tourism in the face of climate change. Visit key sites and interact with stakeholders to gain valuable insights into local sustainability practices and challenges. Beyond the local context, this experience extends to a global perspective as participants compare their Zanzibar experiences against similar cases worldwide.

Please note that in order to take advantage of dynamic learning opportunities, program excursions may occasionally vary.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the PhD in Sustainability, students will be able to:

• Conduct groundbreaking transdisciplinary research that cuts across systems thinking, sustainability studies, and social action.
• Design effective and successful project solutions that lead to inclusive, tenable results for the flourishing of human livelihoods and ecosystems at different spatiotemporal scales.
• Contribute to an emerging body of research and action that redefines mainstream environmental thought guided by contemporary, alternative conservation epistemologies.
• Lead organizations and initiatives in the creation and implementation of sustainable and regenerative systems that satisfy human and ecosystem needs.
• Design and carry out original, ethical research informed by relevant literature and grounded in appropriate methodologies and approaches.
• Contribute to scholarship and practice of the field through publishable research findings.

Read more about Program Learning Outcomes .

Students complete 64 credit hours of work across four years (12 semesters) of study. Courses focus on theory, research methods, applied practice, professional development, and dissertation preparation. Throughout, you will learn from professors and advisors from across the globe. This PhD draws on SIT’s 60-year history of experiential education and global partnerships to provide students with a unique and powerful learning experience.

Students can request to transfer up to 15 credits of relevant previous graduate coursework during admission, thereby reducing the overall credit requirement from 64 to 49.

With approval, students can pursue an accelerated pathway to complete the degree in 10 semesters. The research and dissertation writing phase of the program may vary, dependent on individual student progress, outside commitments, and type or scope of research.

Please expand the sections below to see detailed course descriptions and admissions information.

This is SIT

• We value active togetherness, reciprocity, and respect as the essential ingredients for building a sustainable community .

• With open minds, empathy, and courage, we facilitate intercultural understanding and respect for the commonalities and differences between people.
• We champion social inclusion & justice in all that we are and all that we do, from ensuring our community and our programs amplify the voices, agency, and dignity of all people to deliberately instilling the principles and practices of inclusion in all of our work.
• We are committed to human and environmental well-being through sustainability and contributing to a better world for all living and future generations.

Perspectives on Sustainability (3 credits)

In this course, students will delve into the foundational bodies of theory that underpin both research and practical applications of sustainability approaches. This course provides the theoretical background for the discussion and analysis of sustainability issues that range from energy and natural resources to biodiversity and global climate change. Core concepts of the course include social-ecological systems thinking, vulnerability, resilience, regenerative development, policy, and communication in the context of sustainability.

Central to the course is the interconnectedness of sustainability issues across different scales and systems. Students will gain insights into how communities, governments, organizations, social movements, private corporations, and individuals can collectively address the looming threats to sustainability. The exploration of sustainability topics spans a wide array of perspectives, fostering adaptability in addressing the complex task of reshaping human society and its relationship with nature and technology. The overarching goal is to guide individuals towards more sustainable patterns in ecological, social, political, and economic relations while preparing them to be effective communicators of hope throughout their graduate degree and beyond.

Social-Ecological-Technical-Political Systems and Integration (3 credits)

This course provides the theoretical background for the use and application of complex systems thinking and decision making for sustainability. The course content draws on diverse fields and spheres, including the social sciences, ecological systems, and technology, with a focus on how these spheres overlap, interact, and how we may further bring them together. Core concepts of the course include social-ecological systems thinking, supply-chain and networks analysis, and ethics and social justice in the context of sustainability. Students will examine interrelationships among natural, societal, economic, technological and political systems on multiple scales, and learn to identify problems and conceptualize solutions using systems thinking.

Integrative Biodiversity Conservation (3 credits)

In this course, students will examine past and current environmental conservation theories, paradigms, approaches, and practices that explore and weigh 1) the challenges and successes of resource conservation on multiple scales, 2) the role of carbon in current and future management of ecological systems, 3) the emergence of environmental governance, and 4) ecological restoration and its potential impacts on human flourishing. Holistic in its approach, the course focuses on the relationships, nuances, and sacrifices involved in balancing human use of natural resources and the maintenance and regeneration of ecological health. The course will also draw on theories and concepts from the pluriverse, environmental psychology, and notions of the inseparable duality of the human-nature mosaic.

Case Studies in Climate Change and Sustainability (3 credits)

Societies in developing countries depend on ecosystem goods and services for their livelihoods. Climate change impacts have damaged the integrity of ecosystems and placed stresses on residents’ livelihoods, public institutions, and businesses. This Praxis course addresses climate change impacts and sustainable practices in the tropics and, furthermore, shows that sustainability is a key factor of the development process. The idea of sustainability emerged in response to growing concerns about the apparent failure of conventional, state-led “development” initiatives and about the extent and pace of socio-environmental degradation, including in African settings. In general, a practice is sustainable and resilient when it can cope with and recover from stress and shocks and maintain or enhance its capabilities and assets, while not further undermining the natural resource base and its multi-sectoral linkages.

This 10-day course takes place in the Zanzibar Archipelago, a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania in East Africa. The course addresses three specific cases by experiencing examples and putting theory and skills into practice where Africa meets the Indian Ocean. During the stay in Zanzibar, we also visit key sites and meet with stakeholders about sustainability practices and challenges, for instance as linked to food production and tourism in an era of climate change. Experiences and applications in Zanzibar are compared against global cases. This course grounds doctoral program themes and tools with on-the-ground experiences and applications in the Global South.

Preliminary Review (0 credits)

At the conclusion of year one of the program, students must pass a preliminary examination. Preliminary exams demonstrate mastery of content covered in core courses and demonstrated progress towards the dissertation research proposal.

Analytical Tools and Methods in Sustainability Studies (3 credits)

Sustainability assessment balances environmental, social, and economic impacts while respecting contextual and long-term risks. This Research Methods course provides a critical and systematic review of qualitative and quantitative, but primarily mixed methods, approaches to sustainability. Previous comprehension of baseline qualitative and quantitative methods is expected of students. The course also introduces and applies diverse analytical tools essential to the assessment of sustainability cases and outcomes. A broad comprehension of disciplines, scales (space and time), data types, metrics, indicators, and the strengths and limitations of specific paradigms and approaches informs the course and its content. Sustainability evaluations can impact policy and decision-making in both natural/physical and social spheres. Enhanced livelihoods and environmental conservation and social development can result from improved scientific and technical applications that assess the synergies and tradeoffs of sustainability outcomes.

Qualitative Research Methods (3 credits)

In this course, students will be introduced to a range of approaches and methods used in qualitative inquiry. Among the approaches covered are process tracing, discourse analysis, ethnographic research, case studies, comparative historical analysis, archival research, interviewing, ethnography, content analysis, ethnographic research, political profiling, and agent-based modeling. Students will deepen their knowledge about these approaches and enhance their data collection skills by conducting surveys, analytical frameworks, designing case studies, and reflecting on each method’s strengths and limitations. Students will also learn how to code data inductively and deductively, develop codes, look for patterns emerging in data, develop overarching themes, and interpret findings.

Research Colloquium (3 credits)

The Research Colloquium gives a platform for doctoral students to present and discuss possible PhD research projects, exchange ideas, receive constructive feedback, and workshop ways to prepare and improve their dissertation research proposals. Across 10 days, students interact in a conference format, presenting their research ideas, the literature and debates attached to those ideas, and the methods they are considering using in their inquiry process. Students are also expected to critically evaluate the work of their peers, providing constructive criticism to help them advance their research agenda, operationalize their research questions(s), and identify and develop plans for overcoming challenges in the data collection and analysis phases of their research. Prior to the in-person colloquium students will work with their advisor as needed to develop their presentations.

Electives and Transfer Credits (15 credits)

In addition to the above, students must take 15 credits of elective courses prior to sitting for comprehensive exams. Elective credits can be fulfilled by two means: transferring prior graduate credits received at SIT or another accredited institution or completing an advisor approved elective offered through one of SIT’s part-time hybrid master’s or PhD programs.  

Comprehensive Exams (0 credits)

Upon completion of all coursework, students must pass a comprehensive examination and begin a prospectus (proposal) for their dissertation research. Comprehensive exams confirm students’ mastery of their chosen field of study and serve as the basis for their doctoral dissertation literature review. After passing the comprehensive examination and prospectus defense, students enter candidacy.

Proposal Defense, IRB approval (3 credits)

The proposal defense is designed to evaluate the feasibility, significance, and originality of each student’s proposed dissertation research project. It serves as a critical checkpoint to ensure that the research project is well-structured, well-developed, and has a high likelihood of success. The defense is conducted in front of the student’s three dissertation committee members: their primary advisor and their first and second reader. It consists of a formal presentation followed by a question-and-answer session. After the questioning, the committee deliberates, then provides feedback to the student regarding the strengths and weaknesses of the proposal. The outcome of the defense will be one of the following: 1) Pass: the student may proceed with their research, 2) Conditional Pass: The student is allowed to proceed, but they must address specific issues or complete requested revisions to the proposal before doing so, or 3) Fail: The proposal does not meet the required standards, and the student will be required to revise and redefend it at a later date. *Requires successful completion of comprehensive exams.

Doctoral and Professional Development Seminar 1-4 (1 credit each)

The Doctoral and Professional Development Seminars 1-4 seek to build a community of practice of PhD students as they work to complete their doctoral dissertations.  Students meet bi-weekly with each other and their degree chair to share their dissertation progress, problem solve, and share drafts of their work for feedback. The seminar will also feature occasional guest speakers who will share their own doctoral dissertation journeys and their professional transitions after receiving their PhD.

Dissertation (20 credits across 4 semesters)

At least 20 credits of the PhD program consists of research and dissertation. After completion of the dissertation, the student must pass an oral examination in defense of the dissertation. The culminating experience for the doctoral degree program is publication of the dissertation. The non-coursework portion of the program usually lasts two years.

Dissertation Defense (1 credit)

In this course, students will complete their dissertation, prepare for their oral defense. working closely with their primary and secondary advisors, and deliver and defend their work. Students will be able to present their dissertation remotely.

Admissions Criteria

Our admissions staff work one-on-one with every applicant to facilitate a highly informed and multidimensional admissions experience: applicants are required to undertake an interview with SIT faculty during the application process.    

As applicants become familiar with the attributes of an SIT education—grounded in the experiential learning model and focused on social justice and leadership skills in intercultural environments—they determine for themselves  how  SIT can help them meet their educational and career objectives.  

For the PhD in Sustainability, admissions will evaluate candidates to ensure they meet the following criteria:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution
• Strong academic writing and scholarly potential, as evidenced by a statement of purpose
• Demonstrated English language proficiency (see details below)
• Intercultural and professional experience
• A minimum preferred cumulative grade point average of 3.5 on a scale of 4.0
• Demonstrated ability to use experience as a source of learning
• All applicants are required to interview with program faculty

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• statement of purpose
• three letters of recommendation
• resume or curriculum vitae
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information The statement of purpose should not exceed 600 words and should describe how the applicant’s experience will contribute to success in the program; describe how completion of the degree will support long-term professional goals; and expand on key research questions the applicant aims to address as part of the plan of study. Letters of recommendation must be from three people who can attest to the applicant’s academic and professional achievements. At least one letter should be academic in nature.

Applicants will be able to transfer up to 15 credits of related graduate coursework toward the PhD program. Please contact us for more information.

English Language Ability

Applicants whose first language is not English and who did not graduate from an English-speaking institution must demonstrate English language proficiency.

*This new program is pending accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) in accordance with the Commission's Policy on Substantive Change. The approval process is anticipated to be finalized in fall 2024.

Faculty & Staff

Sustainability – phd (online)*.

Discover the Possibilities

SIT’s Student Financial Services Office provides guidance on all aspects of funding your degree throughout the application process and during your degree program. Tuition costs vary by program and scholarships are available.

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The only design school in the US devoted exclusively to graduate study, we expand the tenets and applications of human-centered design and systems-based design—both pioneered here—so you can identify and build new ways forward in any industry or role, even in the most challenging times.

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Go beyond design thinking. Join future thought leaders, researchers, strategists, and change agents to develop solutions to the most challenging problems of our time, find new ways forward, and create opportunities for organizations to grow and flourish.

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Master of Design & MBA (MDes + MBA)

Help organizations adapt to the speed, scale, and complexity of today’s world. Join the first dual-degree program to combine a user-centered approach to design strategy and innovation with core business management skills.

Master of Design & Master of Public Administration (MDes + MPA)

Address dynamic and complex civic and social challenges with rigor, depth, and imagination. The first program of its kind—tailored for professionals who aspire to lead collaborative, interdisciplinary innovation initiatives within the civic sector.

Master of Design Methods (MDM)

This rigorous program is ideal for established professionals across a broad range of fields who are seeking to accelerate their careers. You will access vital skills and knowledge applicable to real-world challenges within large and small enterprises, from management consulting to design strategy to social innovation.

• PhD in Design

Develop pioneering research at the birthplace of human-centered design and the first US school to offer a PhD in design. Faculty advisors specialize in design’s newest frontiers: behavioral design, data, food systems, sustainability, and more. Alumni lead academic programs at other universities and serve as vital change agents at global corporations.

Featured Student Work

Core77 honors id student’s menstrual equity app.

A Technological Solution for Access and Inclusion

Fast Company Recognizes ID for World Changing Ideas in Urban Design, Healthcare, and More

ID Earns Accolades in Three Categories

The ID Experience

At ID, you’ll find your creativity nurtured and critical thinking skills honed. Learn to use design to address complex social challenges, from climate change to healthcare to education. And do it all in the heart of Chicago, one of the world’s most innovative cities.

A Solid Future

At ID, we know what organizations are looking for when recruiting talent—and how to help students secure their futures. Through practical experiences, career support, and alumni networking, ID students leave prepared to succeed.

We help you make the connections that create opportunities, and our rankings show it.

For Learners

• Master of Design
• Master of Design + MBA
• Master of Design + MPA
• Master of Design Methods
• Career Support

For Organizations

• Executive Academy
• Resource Library
• PhD Corporate Partnerships
• Hire from ID

For Everyone

• Action Labs
• Equitable Healthcare Lab
• Food Systems Lab
• Sustainable Solutions Lab
• Net Positive Behavior Lab
• More Ways to Partner
• Mission & Values
• The New Bauhaus
• ID Experience
• ID & Chicago
• Faculty & Staff
• News & Stories
• End of Year Show
• Lucas J. Daniel Series in Sustainable Systems
• Latham 2024–25