| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MSc in Design Innovation at Maynooth University equips students with the skills and knowledge to become effective radical innovators. Through a multi-disciplinary approach, students learn to research, analyze, and present actionable innovation concepts that align with organizational strategies. The program prepares graduates for careers in innovation leadership, innovation management, and other related fields in various sectors.
Program Outline
MSc Design Innovation
Degree Overview
The MSc in Design Innovation is a unique program that utilizes a blend of theory and practice to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective radical innovators. The program focuses on developing actionable insights and presenting novel, winning innovation concepts. Through a multi-disciplinary approach that combines design, ethnography, psychology, engineering, and business, students learn the methods to research, acquire, analyze, and present actionable innovation concepts and match these insights with organizational strategies and capabilities. The program is designed for individuals aspiring to be leaders in Design Innovation, particularly those interested in roles such as innovation leadership, innovation management, product management, strategic marketing, market research, design strategy, and new product or service development. Graduates have found success in various sectors, including design, manufacturing, IT, web design, media, and public services. The program welcomes participants from diverse backgrounds, including graduates of Social Sciences, Anthropology, Design, Business, Computer Science, or Engineering. Graduates of other disciplines are also encouraged to apply. No prior design experience is required.
Objectives:
- Develop skills and knowledge to become a leader in Design Innovation.
- Learn to research, analyze, and present actionable innovation concepts.
- Gain expertise in matching actionable insights with organizational strategies and capabilities.
- Prepare for careers in innovation leadership, innovation management, and other related fields.
Key Features:
- Multi-disciplinary approach combining diverse fields.
- Focus on developing actionable insights and winning innovation concepts.
- Practical learning through assignments, workshops, and field research projects.
- No prior design experience required.
- Open to students from various disciplines.
Outline
The MSc in Design Innovation is offered in both full-time and part-time formats. Both programs are continuous assessment, with grades awarded for assignments completed within each module.
Full-time Program:
- Duration: 12 months
- Starts in September
- Approximately 4 contact days per month (9 am - 6 pm)
- Students complete assignments and apply their learnings between classes
- Taught modules delivered in semesters 1 and 2
- Dissertation projects with field research in semester 3
Part-time Program:
- Duration: 24 months
- Starts in September
- Approximately 2 contact days per month (9 am - 6 pm)
- Students complete assignments and apply their learnings between classes
- Taught modules delivered in semesters 1 and 2
- Dissertation projects with field research in semesters 3 and 4
Modules:
The program comprises a variety of modules, covering different aspects of design innovation. Some examples of modules include:
- Design Thinking and Innovation
- User Experience Research and Design
- Ethnographic Research Methods
- Design Strategy
- Innovation Management
- New Product Development
- Design for Sustainability
- Design for Social Innovation
Dissertations:
In the final semester, students undertake a dissertation project involving field research and a written dissertation report. This provides an opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge gained throughout the program to a specific area of interest.
Assessment
The MSc in Design Innovation program utilizes continuous assessment. Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Assignments
- Presentations
- Case studies
- Projects
- Dissertation Grades are awarded based on the quality of work submitted throughout the program. There are no end-of-semester written examinations.
Teaching
The program is taught by a team of experienced academics and practitioners with expertise in design innovation. The teaching methods used are varied and include:
- Lectures
- Workshops
- Seminars
- Guest speakers
- Field trips
- Individual and group work The program places a strong emphasis on experiential learning through case studies, fieldwork, and individual and group assignments. This allows students to apply their learnings and develop their skills in a practical setting.
Careers
The MSc in Design Innovation prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in various sectors. Some potential career paths include:
- Innovation Leader
- Innovation Manager
- Product Manager
- Strategic Marketing Manager
- Market Researcher
- Design Strategist
- New Product Development Manager Graduates have found success in companies across industries, including:
- Technology
- Pharmaceutical
- Agri-food
- Design
- Manufacturing
- Service Industries
- Students have the opportunity to work on real-world projects with companies and organizations.
- The program is offered in a flexible format, allowing students to study full-time or part-time.
- The program is led by Dr. Threase Finnegan-Kessie.
