Program Overview

Program Overview

The PhD in Technology and Social Behavior (TSB) is a joint program between the School of Communication and the Department of Computer Science in the McCormick School of Engineering. The program aims to educate scholar-technologists capable of performing cutting-edge research and development, and pushing the boundaries of interdisciplinary scholarship.

Admissions

On Admissions

The goal of the TSB program is to attract students from diverse backgrounds who are looking to explore research beyond traditional department boundaries. Ideal candidates are those with a desire to marry a technological background with social science and humanities training.

How to Apply

To apply, students must use the online application form, which includes an Academic Statement and a Personal Statement. Supplemental materials required include:

• 2-3 letters of recommendation
• Original transcripts from all universities previously attended
• Resume/CV
• English language proficiency certification (if applicable)

Deadlines

The online application and all supplemental materials must be received by December 1, at 5 PM (CST).

Admissions Profile

Admission decisions are based on the overall academic record, quality of the school attended, grade point averages (GPA), strength of letters of recommendation, work experience, and match with faculty research interests. Admitted students will generally have at least:

• GPA: 3.0/4.0 (undergraduate) or 3.5/4.0 (master’s degree, if applicable)
• TOEFL (for international applicants): 100+ on the TOEFL Internet Based Test or 7+ on the International English Testing System (IELTS) or 61+ on the Michigan English Test
• Demonstrated research experience in a relevant area
• Some form of technical background that indicates preparation for graduate-level technical coursework

Financial Aid and Funding

There is no separate financial-aid application. Admitted students are provided with 5 years of support, either as research assistants, teaching assistants, or on fellowship.

Assistantships

Assistantships are of two types: teaching assistantships and research assistantships. Students who are awarded teaching assistantships are generally responsible for grading and staffing of laboratory sections of undergraduate classes. Students who are awarded research assistantships work on research grants and contracts.

Fellowships

Besides assistantships, fellowships are available for students who are well-qualified. Unlike assistantships, fellowships usually do not require the student to perform any duties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Which PhD Program should I apply to? The TSB program tends to attract students with more of a technical background who are interested in designing and building new technology as a component of their research.
• What level of technical preparation is necessary? Incoming students should have sufficient preparation in a technical field such that they have the basis for success.
• How do I apply for financial aid? There is no separate financial aid application; you only have to indicate in the appropriate place on the admission application that you want to be considered for financial aid.
• What financial support is provided? Admitted students are provided with 5 years of support either as research assistants, teaching assistants, or on fellowship.
• Should I specify the MS or PhD degree? TSB currently only admits to a PhD program.
• Do I need a Masters degree already? A Masters degree is not required to apply to the TSB program.
• What institution and department codes should I use for the TOEFL? The institution code for Northwestern University is 1565.
• Do I have to submit GRE scores? No, applicants are not required to submit GRE scores.