Overview
21ST CENTURY INNOVATION
There has never been a better time to study innovation! Innovation is the no. 1 priority of the Irish government as a driver for economic growth; it is the central pillar of EU and US development strategies. Companies large and small also recognise the essential need for early-stage innovation research that uncovers crucial understanding of user needs, socio-cultural trends and insights, which lead to exciting and differentiating new innovation concepts.
"There is political agreement in Europe that to ensure competitiveness, prosperity and wellbeing, … the progressive shift in emphasis of European innovation policy from exclusive reliance on 'technology push' to more demand and user-driven innovation must continue."
(Design as a driver of user-centred innovation EU Commission, April 2009)
FOR ALL INNOVATION LEADERS
This MSc offers the opportunity to become a leader in Design Innovation for your organisation. The MSc in Design Innovation gives a practical education and experience in the key themes that drive 21st century innovation, such as innovation strategy and deep understanding of human needs, behaviours and socio-cultural trends. You will learn the methods to research, acquire, analyse and present this understanding as well as the techniques and skills to synthesise actionable innovation concepts.
Course Structure
The programme is delivered by assignments, lectures, workshops and dissertation. A large portion of the learning is experiential through case research, workshop discussion, fieldwork and individual or group assignments. A substantial field project is carried out in the third semester, with a written dissertation on completion. All modules and dissertation are 100% continuously assessed, with no end of semester written examinations.
Modules
The programme is delivered over 12 months (full-time) or 24 months (part-time). It is structured in a modular format to facilitate part-time study over 2 years while staying in employment. Also, modules may be studied individually with individual certification and for accrual of credits towards a Diploma or Masters award.
Taught modules are delivered in semesters 1 & 2 (Autumn and Spring).
Dissertation project, including field research, is carried out in semester 3 (Summer).
Comment
Design Innovation at Maynooth University brings a design thinking perspective to a wide range of business innovation and product development domains. Expert staff members from Product Design, Business Development, Product Development, Engineering, Marketing and Social Science backgrounds combine to guide teaching and research programmes with a constant pragmatic orientation. By prioritising innovation research and practice with usercentricity and socio-cultural sensitivities, design innovation is valuable for all sectors including manufacturing, services, public service and social ventures.