Master of Science in Integrative Design

The focus of this program is understanding the theory, methods and processes of design and its application in problem solving. Through a participatory process, a variety of creative design techniques are introduced and used to develop an in-depth understanding of interdisciplinary design processes and methodologies, sustainability, feasibility, and social responsibility. Inter- and multi-disciplinary collaborations and experiences are encouraged and supported within the Master of Science in Integrative Design, MSID.  Independently of prior educational background, this program will allow all people to learn and advance design, creativity, innovation, business and strategy mindset and tools, to address future challenges, develop new projects, create new businesses,  and ultimately improve people’s lives.
 
This program establishes a variety of creative design thinking techniques in areas such as systems thinking, brainstorming, immersions, contextual relevance, and empathy–all of which will be used to develop an in-depth understanding of the design process, the product/service life cycle, product/service feasibility, and the integration of social responsibility in interdisciplinary and integrative design, innovation and entrepreneurial projects. It will enable students with artistic, technical, engineering, management, and many other diverse backgrounds to study and successfully engage with creative development teams, tackling real-life challenges and developing projects for any industry, start-up company, or the government. Graduates will be equipped for future career-growth, career switch, or to develop new meaningful creative and innovative businesses and enterprises.  
 
This program has an interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to choose three (3) electives from other master’s programs, with topics in business, entrepreneurship, innovation and future foresight, among others.
 
The MSID is awarded upon successful completion of 30 credits, culminating in a final capstone project. It is offered in a face-to-face mode on our campus at RIT Dubai. Courses are taught by distinguished RIT faculty from different fields.  The program is designed to allow for working professionals to join, and will be conducted in the evenings, across five academic terms, within a two-year period.

Mission Statement

The Master of Science in Integrative Design produces graduates who are leaders in their respective fields, ready to tackle high-level challenges through an interdisciplinary, creative and future-oriented mindset, supported by design, innovation, business and entrepreneurial methods and tools. The integrative focus will allow participants from different fields to collaborate with industry, government and academia, with a focus on sustainability and the circular economy. Applied research methods will allow graduates to grow in their industry, develop novel projects and businesses, and successfully pursue future graduate degrees at the doctoral level.

Typical Job Titles

• Integrate design processes and methods
• Utilize user-centered design thinking and research skills
• Understand design in culture and businesses
• Obtain technical and aesthetic competence

• Demonstrate artistic, technical and design competencies to create design solutions to a defined problem statement.
• Apply design processes and methods to multidisciplinary project development.
• Develop solutions that integrate form, function and user experience.
• Document design research and process in written form.
• Design innovative elements for a diversity of users and cultures.
• Evaluate feasibility of design and innovation in current and future global marketplaces.
• Demonstrate competence to visualize and communicate ideas/solutions effectively through appropriate media.  
• Evaluate, select and use appropriate technologies for design and innovation projects.

Typical Course Sequence

Total Credit Hours - 30

To graduate, students need to complete all the requirements as listed in the curriculum graduation policy