PhD in Industrial Design

Tuition fees for PhD in Industrial Design are 37,000 CNY per year, while applications for the Sep 2027 intake are open until Nov 30, 2026.

The PhD in Industrial Design at Sichuan University is a 4-year program for students who want to earn a PhD degree in design. It's taught in English and focuses on helping students develop skills in design research, product development, and human-centered design.

The curriculum covers subjects like design theory, user experience, and product innovation. Students will also get hands-on experience with design projects and collaborations with industry partners, helping them develop skills in creativity, teamwork, and communication.

Graduates of this program can work as Design Researchers, Product Designers, or Innovation Consultants in industries like technology, furniture, or automotive. They can also work as User Experience Specialists or Design Managers for companies that value human-centered design and innovation.

Sichuan University in Chengdu traces its roots to 1896 and is one of China’s leading national research universities. As a Class A Double First Class institution supported by the Ministry of Education, SCU combines deep historic traditions with large-scale research and teaching. The university enrolls around 57,000 students, including over 3,400 international students, and operates three scenic campuses at Wangjiang, Huaxi and Jiang'an that balance academic rigour with student life.

SCU offers a broad academic portfolio across the sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities and social sciences, with hundreds of doctoral, master and undergraduate programs. Research activity is strong, supported by extensive libraries, modern laboratories and well-equipped sports facilities, including swimming pools, courts and gyms. The International Student Office provides orientation, help with accommodation and campus services, and the university advertises a range of scholarships including government-funded and institutional awards for degree-seeking students.

For prospective international students, Sichuan University presents a compelling combination of academic depth, vibrant campus culture and the lifestyle of Chengdu, a major cultural and economic centre. Practical supports such as on-campus housing options, health and counselling services, and opportunities for clubs and internships make settling in easier. If you seek a large research university with diverse programs and strong international links, SCU is worth exploring in detail before applying.