Professional Studies

The Professional Studies program at Carnegie Mellon University offers a unique opportunity for working professionals and lifelong learners to expand their expertise and advance their careers through flexible, rigorous, and innovative educational experiences. Designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working individuals, this program provides a blend of online and on-campus learning formats that facilitate the acquisition of cutting-edge knowledge across various disciplines. Students engage with industry leaders, academic experts, and peer learners in a dynamic learning environment that fosters practical application of concepts and skills. The curriculum is carefully curated to reflect current industry trends, technological advancements, and societal challenges, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to lead and innovate in their respective fields. Whether seeking to deepen technical knowledge, develop leadership capabilities, or explore interdisciplinary approaches, participants can tailor their learning journey to meet their personal and professional goals. The program emphasizes experiential learning, collaborative projects, and real-world problem solving, enabling students to gain hands-on experience and build strong professional networks. With a focus on flexibility, quality, and relevance, the Professional Studies program at Carnegie Mellon University aims to empower individuals to transform their careers, contribute meaningfully to their organizations, and make a lasting impact in their communities.

• Seminar: Interaction & Service Design Concepts
• Studio: Designing for Interactions
• Interaction Design Lab
• Communication Design Studio: Theory & Practice
• Colloquium (Optional)
• Seminar: Transition Design
• Studio: Research-Based Design for Interactions
• Design Research Methods
• Elective

• A Baccalaureate degree in design from an accredited institution, with a strong record of academic achievement
• A design background evident in your portfolio, including, for example, elements of visual design, typography, layout and composition, color, illustration, information design, filmmaking, photography, and experience with design process, iteration, critique and visual communication.
• At least two years of professional or teaching experience
• A statement of intent
• Letters of recommendation
• GRE test scores
• TOEFL/IELTS scores where applicable
• Official transcripts
• A link to your portfolio
• Your admissions fee

Scholarships

For full-time graduate students in the MDES, MPS and MA programs, we offer paid assistantships of $2,000 per semester in exchange for approximately six hours of work per week. All applicants are invited to apply for one of these assistantships.

We have a limited number of merit scholarships offering partial tuition support, available to select candidates. Scholarship recipients will be notified as part of their acceptance package, upon review of applications by the admissions committee.

The Professional Studies program at Carnegie Mellon University is designed to offer flexible, innovative, and interdisciplinary educational opportunities for working professionals and lifelong learners. The program aims to bridge the gap between traditional academic training and practical industry needs, providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in rapidly evolving fields. Students enrolled in the Professional Studies program can customize their learning experience by selecting from a wide array of courses across various disciplines, including technology, management, analytics, design, and more. This personalized approach ensures that each student can align their studies with their career goals and personal interests.

The program emphasizes experiential learning, collaborative projects, and real-world applications to enhance the educational experience. Students often engage in hands-on projects, internships, and industry partnerships that allow them to apply theoretical concepts in practical settings. Carnegie Mellon's strong ties to industry leaders and innovative companies provide students with valuable networking opportunities and exposure to the latest trends and technologies. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the current demands of the job market, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for future challenges.

The faculty involved in the Professional Studies program are leading experts in their fields, bringing a wealth of academic and industry experience. The program also supports online and hybrid learning modalities, offering flexibility to accommodate working professionals who wish to advance their careers without taking time off from their jobs. Through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous coursework, students can study at their own pace and balance their educational pursuits with personal and professional responsibilities.

Graduates of the Carnegie Mellon Professional Studies program often find that their new credentials and skills open doors to advancement opportunities, leadership roles, and new career paths. The program's focus on interdisciplinary learning, technological innovation, and practical application makes it a distinguished choice for motivated individuals seeking to stay competitive in today's dynamic environment. Overall, the program embodies Carnegie Mellon's commitment to fostering lifelong learning, innovation, and impact in the global community of learners.