Program Overview
The Master of Science in Futures and Design (MSF&D) from ASU's School for the Future of Innovation in Society equips students with the knowledge and skills to envision and create positive futures. Through a transdisciplinary approach, students explore future-focused theories, speculative design, and foresight studies to develop solutions for complex problems. Graduates are prepared for careers in strategy, design, innovation, and social change, where they can navigate uncertainty and drive positive change.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Name: Master of Science in Futures and Design (MSF&D)
- Offered by: School for the Future of Innovation in Society
- Credits: 33 credit hours
- Key Subjects: Future-focused theories and practices, speculative design, science fiction, foresight studies, social theory, innovation studies, design science
Objectives:
- To equip students with the knowledge and skills to create positive change and envision new futures.
- To prepare students for careers in various fields, including strategy, design, innovation, and social change.
Program Description:
- Combines theory and practice to investigate and craft alternative futures.
- Students learn about future-oriented theories and methods used by organizations today.
- Students work in transdisciplinary teams with professional partners to produce compelling visions of the future in diverse media.
Outline:
- Required Core (15 credit hours):
- HDA 581 Emerging Media Colloquium (3)
- HSD 550 Prototyping Futures (3)
- HSD 551 Future-Focused Research Methods (3)
- HSD 552 Worldbuilding and Imagination (3)
- HSD 555 Strategic Design Futures (3)
Teaching:
- The program utilizes a collaborative and transdisciplinary approach.
- Students work in teams with professional partners from industry and the community.
- The program leverages the Media and Immersive eXperience (MIX) Center for emerging media technologies.
Careers:
- Graduates are equipped with skills in uncertainty navigation, design thinking, and strategic coping with disruptive change.
- Potential career paths include:
- Director of Futures Strategy
- Futurist
- Global Trends Manager
- Growth Strategist
- Ideation Leader
- Issues Manager
- Principal Foresight Researcher
- Strategic Planner
Other:
- The program encourages students to study abroad and participate in global research and professional development opportunities.
- Students learn about scenario planning, a key management tool for anticipating and navigating future challenges.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Admission Requirements:
Eligibility:
- Bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
Application Materials:
- Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Personal statement.
- Professional resume.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
The specific requirements for English proficiency vary depending on the student's nationality and educational background.
Additional Notes:
- The information provided above is based on the current academic year. Admission requirements and policies may change from year to year.
