MDes Social Innovation

This course applies the lens of design thinking to address some of society’s most important social, environmental and economic challenges.
You will develop solutions that address pressing social and environmental demands. These are often in the fields of health, social cohesion, demographic shifts, climate change and economic development. These issues are not necessarily addressed by one sector alone or by conventional market-led forces. Instead they involve cross-sectorial experimentation, co-creation, prototyping and dissemination. Globally focused case studies will broaden students’ perspectives and increase their understanding of social innovation as a driver for systemic social change.
The course will guide students through the underlying patterns, causes and capabilities needed for social change looking at alternative economic spaces by drawing on notions of the social economy, social value, inclusion and sustainability. It will demonstrate how design is being used increasingly as a strategic tool by organisations, social movements and government bodies to create innovative new social services, improve systems and processes and develop better, more inclusive and participatory business models.
Social Innovation equips you with the ability to embed innovation in the area of sustainability, community resilience, corporate social responsibility, venture and philanthropy. This course develops your collaborative and entrepreneurial approaches, supported by design skills that are needed for leadership roles in brands, business, social enterprise, NGOs or government.
Download co-creation workshop booklet