Frequently Asked Questions About Applying to CCS Graduate Studies

Graduate Studies Resources

Contact Graduate Admissions at [email protected], or visit Admissions: Contact to connect with more of our Admissions teams.

• Graduate Studies
• Graduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions Events
• Graduate Portfolio Requirements

Transcripts

What Is the Application Process for CCS Graduate Studies?

Hey guys! Thank you for your interest in the graduate programs at the College for Creative Studies! I’m Britney Underwood, your admissions counselor at CCS, and I’m here to guide you through our graduate application process. Let’s get started!

First, you must complete our general Graduate Application on our website ccsdetroit.edu. Click on Apply and select the Graduate Application. You can only apply for one program and degree level at a time. 

Click the sign-up link to create your portal account and complete our general application.

Next, review the required application materials based on the program you’re applying to on the CCS website by clicking on or searching for Graduate Admission on the CCS website. 

After you submit the general Graduate application, you will gain access to the graduate SlideRoom portal. These are the items you’ll need to upload to Slideroom:

• Transcripts: you will need to submit an unofficial transcript for initial review. 
• Resume or CV detailing your professional experience.
• Two letters of recommendation. These should come from individuals who can speak to your creative and academic potential. 
• Each program has specific requirements. For example, Art Education requires a portfolio of your work and an artist-educator essay. Color & Materials Design and Transportation Design require detailed portfolios showcasing your design skills. Please be sure to review the requirements for your program of interest. 

International Applicants will need to provide the following items as part of their application:

• English language proficiency test score if English isn’t your primary language. Please submit TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test or Michigan English Test scores to CCS. Native English speakers can submit a waiver request. Visit the Graduate Admissions portion of the website for details. 
• Translated version of your university transcripts

Check our website ccsdetroit.edu for deadlines and more details. We recommend applying by January 15th for priority consideration. 

If you need help you can always schedule an appointment with me for guidance. 

Thanks and good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions About Applying to CCS Graduate Studies

“Hi! I’m here to answer some frequently asked questions about the graduate application process at the College for Creative Studies. Let’s dive in!”

‘What are the application deadlines?’ Our priority deadline is January 15th, which will give you an early notification of the admissions decision and scholarship amount. The general deadline is February 15. We accept applications on a rolling basis after that. Applying early is highly recommended!

‘Where do I submit my required application materials?’ After you submit the general Graduate application that is available on the ccsdetroit.edu website under Apply, you will gain access to SlideRoom, where you will submit all of the required materials. 

‘Do I need a portfolio?’ Each graduate program has specific requirements, so be sure to check ccsdetroit.edu for details on what you need to submit based on the program you’re applying to.

‘What about transcripts?’ Submit unofficial transcripts for initial review. If admitted, you’ll need to provide official ones. International applicants will need to provide an English translation of their transcripts.

‘Who should write my recommendation letters?’ Two letters are required. Choose recommenders who know your academic and creative abilities well.”

‘What tests are needed?’ If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need TOEFL, IELTS,  Duolingo English Test or Michigan English Test scores.

‘When will my application be reviewed?’ We will need ALL of the required application materials prior to the program chair or Graduate Studies Dean review your application.

‘What kind of events does Grad Admissions host?’ Grad Admissions hosts info sessions called Ask Grad Admissions Anything throughout the year, go to our Graduate Admissions events page on ccsdetroit.edu to sign up for the next one!

For more questions, visit our website ccsdetroit.edu or schedule an appointment with me! We’re here to help!”