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Indiana University Online

Design Thinking, Graduate Certificate

With the IU Online Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking, you’ll learn the philosophy and practice of design from concept to production, and develop leadership skills in the creative process. This fast, flexible certificate program, created for working professionals, prepares you to apply design thinking methodologies to any industry.

Course Delivery: 80-99% Online

Total Credits: 18

In-State Tuition Per Credit: $424.50

Out-of-State Tuition Per Credit: $424.50

Cost of attendance may vary by campus. View the total cost calculator

Certificate Overview

In the IU Online Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking, you’ll acquire advanced training in problem-solving and interdisciplinary teamwork. You’ll graduate prepared to join a new 21st-century workforce and drive innovation in your field, with knowledge that meets complex human needs.

You’ll graduate with an Indiana University certificate respected by employers worldwide—and you can work on yours anytime and anywhere. Plus, you’ll enjoy personalized support services throughout your academic journey.

To be accepted to this program, you must have a bachelor's degree.

To apply to this program, complete an online application that includes:

  • Transcripts
  • Resume
  • Personal statement (500–750 words) of why you want to pursue this certificate
  • Three examples demonstrating your professional experience (may include a case study, portfolio, deliverable, or other suitable format) 
  • TOEFL scores or IELTS scores (some international students only) 

Note: This program is not eligible for financial aid.

Your IU Online Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking prepares you to apply the design thinking methodology to almost any industry or sector in such careers as:

  • Design thinking specialist 
  • Innovation consultant 
  • Human-centered design strategist
  • Product developer 
  • Innovation manager 
  • Brand manager 
  • Design research manager 
  • User experience designer 
  • Customer experience specialist 
  • Patient engagement specialist

To earn the Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking, you must complete 18 credit hours.

Requirements are broken down as follows:

  • Design thinking core courses (12 credit hours) 
  • Design thinking practicum (6 credit hours) 

Core Classes for the Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking
Course Number Course Name Credits
HER-V 512 Intro: Design Thinking for Tackling Wicked Problems/Sensemaking 3 Credits
HER-V 513 Design Methods for Framing Problems 3 Credits
HER-V 522 Design Methods for Ideating 3 Credits
HER-V 523 Design Methods for Prototyping 3 Credits
HER-V 532 Practicum 6 Credits

Find course descriptions with our Search Schedule of Classes/Courses tool.

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