Review Skills and Capabilities
Review our research-academic program and the analytical and computing skills and capabilities
Know The Future World
The rise of digital technologies and how to advance your digital skillset computational thinking to lead
How To Start Now
Create your future to keep on top of your creativity skills and maintain an innovative mindset
Before you finance, ask: why would you fund Fellow of Design Sciences to the repertoire of your profile, organization and management?
As Joan Ernst van Aken said, “adding design science research to the repertoire of individuals, organization and management can create a virtuous cycle toward a future in which these studies matter more than they do now.” And, with the rise of digital technology, it has become more relevant for a wider range of topics and issues. We have reached a point where design — as a discipline — can contribute to the scientific progress and has indeed become part of science. Design research and education derive strong benefits from a more explicit use of the scientific method. Design science studies the creation of artifacts and their embedding in our physical, psychological, economic, social and virtual environments.
Participants who fit well in this unique program are those interested in the “why” behind successful design. What principles and processes lead to better designs, how can designs be implemented and adopted, and how can design be taught more effectively? The focus in the program is the rigorous study of how design can be accomplished rather than a studio approach to design skills. Every participant has a different course of study based on their specializations across two disciplines. Each participant’s program of study is based upon their interests and consultation with faculty advisors from different disciplines of design sciences. So, the key to a great Fellowship experience in Design Sciences is finding faculty mentors who match your interests in design. One of the strengths of the Simon-Erdős School of Design Sciences program is the breadth and depth of interdisciplinary studies possible within our time.
The Goal
The goal is to address skill-gaps in analytical and learning technologies and participate in the creation of new knowledge about the design process. The focus is on methods, artifacts and models that allow the rigorous study of design as it is practiced in the world today. And, prepare individuals for a wide range of industries and organizations, including large manufacturers, financial technology companies, and tech start-ups. Some fellow graduates work in research, industry and government labs, or consulting roles.
Living costs
North America and Asian continent are the financial and knowledge capital of the world and there is always something to do or see: it’s a center of tradition, culture, modern art and film, has a thriving food scene, and is home to people from all over the world. Living here is certainly not boring.
In addition to tuition, you should budget enough money for living costs. We estimate average living costs – per month – to be:
- Health insurance (required)
- Rent of an apartment
- Food
- Local Transportation
- Mobile phone plan
- Sport, leisure, culture
All students enrolled at a Simon-Erdős School of Design Sciences must have health insurance coverage. Confirmation is needed before we can officially enroll you at DESC.
Tax Deductions
Many countries allow tuition for higher education, and related costs, to count as tax-deductible expenses. You can learn more about the requirements in Germany, for example, here. Please check with your tax advisor to assess your personal situation.
Possible deductions might include:
- Tuition fees
- Travel required by the program
- Temporary housing expenses
Cost of prep courses – English, special courses, etc.
Most participants fund their studies with a mix of personal funds, loans, learning and earning, aid and scholarships
Academic Fees & Payments
The Dörfli School of Design Sciences is committed to make higher fellowship education more accessible to individual participants. Find out the tuition fees before planning on your finances.
Learning and Earning Program
Other Ways To Pay Academic Fees
Explore Scholarships, bursaries, participant loans, part-time jobs and further financing possibilities in your home country during the application process are just some of the ways to help pay for School.