MS in Consumer and Design Sciences, Auburn University

Auburn - Alabama, Alabama

24 Months

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About this course

The M.S. in Consumer and Design Sciences at Auburn University's College of Human Sciences offers students the flexibility of pursuing either a Thesis or a Non-Thesis track. The program requires a minimum of 30 semester hours, with options to include a research or creative scholarship-based thesis, a final oral examination, or a graduate project tailored to the student’s interests. The program's structure is highly personalized, allowing students to select courses and research topics that align with their academic background, work experience, and career ambitions. Coursework primarily takes place within the department, though students can include relevant courses from other departments. The first few terms involve advisement from the Graduate Program Officer, followed by the selection of a Major Professor and formation of a Graduate Advisory Committee to customize the student's plan of study.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is highly recommended for students seeking a flexible, personalized graduate experience that combines coursework with research or creative projects. The opportunity to tailor the Plan of Study to individual academic and professional goals, as well as the chance to engage in specialized topics such as sustainability, emerging technologies, and global markets, makes it ideal for students looking to deepen their expertise in consumer and design sciences.

Specialisation

The program offers advanced study in areas such as Consumer Behavior, Interior Design, Apparel and Product Design, Design Management, Retail Management, Product Development, Sustainability, Creativity, Forecasting and Trend Analysis, Emerging Technologies, and Multicultural and Global Markets. Students can focus their coursework and research on these topical areas based on their interests and career goals.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

Living cost

Degree requirements

To earn the M.S., students must complete at least 30 semester hours, which include coursework in research methods and relevant theory courses. The Thesis Option additionally requires a research or creative scholarship-based thesis and a final oral exam. The Non-Thesis Option involves 26 credit hours of coursework and a graduate project. Students must also develop and submit a Plan of Study, which details their coursework and research plans, prior to graduation.

English language test

DUOLINGO

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

Career prospects

Graduates can pursue careers in consumer behavior analysis, interior design, apparel and product development, retail management, and related fields. The program prepares students for roles involving research, design management, trend forecasting, and sustainability initiatives within consumer and design industries.

FAQs

Can I choose courses outside of the department?

Yes, courses outside the Department of Consumer and Design Sciences may be approved for some of your graduate hours.

How do I select a Major Professor?

You should identify faculty members whose research interests align with yours, schedule meetings to discuss your goals, and then officially ask your chosen professor to be your Major Professor by completing the Declaration of Major Professor form.