FAQs

Philadelphia is a great City to live in. Like any large American City there is always some risk. The campus is very safe. Students coming from a foreign country should do research on different living options and what the rental rates. In addition, public transportation routes should be studied to makes sure there is direct transit to campus. It’s best to have already lined up several places to live prior coming to study. The MSSD Student was recently designated as a STEM Program which means that international students who graduate from our program are eligible to apply for a 24 month extension beyond the normal 12 month OPT. Nearly 95% of all international student graduates have found employment or have gone to enter a PHD program.

Thomas Jefferson University is a Middle States Accredited Institution.
The MSSD program is a post-baccalaureate program focused on leadership, specialized knowledge, innovative thinking and specific skills. Those wishing to become a registered architect should look into Jefferson accredited architecture master’s program (MArch).

No. We did not see a correlation between high GRE scores and success in our program.

Macintosh computers are not recommended for this program if you intend to pursue building design as part of your degree.

The definition of design has been broadly expanded in this program. The program is a mix of builders, designers, architects, developers, engineers and other professionals. What should I put in my portfolio, especially if I am a non-designer? We look for anything that you may have created or accomplished whether it be technically driven or aesthetically driven. If you have nothing visual to offer, please submit a detailed resume. Please consider placing images on web services such as Flickr or Behance for the portfolio. 

As of November, 2017 Non-designers are required to take only one of the Design Studios and can take an extra elective to replaces the second studio which is focused on detailed building design.

There are more than a few engineers in the program and they do quite well, especially those looking to mix in more creativity in their work. In addition, the program is now in a partnership with Villanova University (for on-campus students) to provide advanced engineering courses in renewable energy and water management.