MSSD Application Instructions

[  ] Follow the application instructions for all UTSOA graduate programs.
[  ] See below for MSSD application requirements.
[  ] DUAL DEGREE APPLICANTS: To apply for admission to the MSSD + MSCRP dual degree program, an applicant must select the correct dual degree program on the application, follow the application instructions for each degree program, and meet all application deadlines for each degree program.

[  ] Follow the Graduate School instructions to submit the application, application fee, transcripts, and test scores. 

The GRE is waived for Fall 2025 applications. It may take 72 hours to be removed from your MyStatus. There is no reason to reach out in the interim. 

[  ] Upload your statement through MyStatus.

+  A maximum 1,000 word essay that addresses your interest in the MSSD program with respect to your academic and professional objectives, the factors that led you to apply to the UTSOA, a situation or job that helped you define your interest, your most substantial professional contribution and why you view it as such, and/or any other factors related to your academic or professional experience that you wish to convey to the admissions committee. 
+ You may submit your online application before finishing your statement of purpose. You can later upload your statement through MyStatus.

[  ] Manage and track your letters through MyStatus.
[  ] Provide recommenders' emails as part of the online application.

+ Recommenders may include former instructors and professional employers.
+ Letters should include comments on the applicant’s intellectual, communicative, and leadership abilities as well as their capacity for creativity and relevant personal characteristics.
+ After you submit your application and pay your application fee, notification emails will be sent to your recommenders. Any delay in submitting your application or application fee will delay the notifications to your recommenders.

[  ] Upload through MyStatus. 

[  ] Upload through MyStatus.

+ This document should demonstrate your analytical writing and reasoning skills.
+ It does not need to be lengthy (most submissions range 5-10 pages), but it should clearly focus on a single topic.

[  ] Upload as a miscellaneous document through MyStatus.

For the MSSD application, the portfolio is optional and an opportunity for you to demonstrate abilities in any design or creative field.

FORMAT

Upload portfolios as a single pdf through the portfolio credential on MyStatus. Portfolios should be designed and formatted for on-screen viewing. Maximum file size is 25 MB.

ATTRIBUTION

For each project, list the applicant’s name, the project’s date, and an indication as to whether the project was academic, office-related, or personal. In the case of collaborative or professional work, the contribution by the applicant must be precisely described.

ORGANIZATION

The organization of the portfolio is a design exercise. It should be clear, succinct, and thoughtfully composed to best reflect your interests and skills. The quality of the work is of greater importance than quantity.