Design Thinking for Sustainability

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Postgraduate Design Thinking for Sustainability Masters Degree at University College Dublin is designed for ambitious individuals seeking to drive meaningful change in a world increasingly shaped by environmental and economic shifts. You will gain a unique blend of sustainability knowledge and practical skills, focusing on human-centred problem-solving methodologies to create innovative, sustainable solutions. This programme equips you with a sustainability mindset, encompassing systems, issues, and tools framed by the UN Sustainable Development Goals, preparing you to address complex global challenges with confidence and creativity.

This full-time, on-campus Masters degree, studied over one year, immerses you in core modules covering innovation sprints, entrepreneurship, design for user-centric, sustainable solutions, and systemic approaches. You will engage with applied sustainability projects, often set by industry partners, and develop your own project to address a real-world sustainability challenge. You will graduate with the ability to lead change, embed sustainability principles, and reposition your career for the emerging green economy, ready for roles in consultancy, corporate sustainability, or public sector innovation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores the principles and practices of design thinking, focusing on its application to sustainability challenges. You will learn to foster innovation and entrepreneurship through user-centric design, systemic approaches, and creative problem-solving. The curriculum emphasizes developing a sustainable mindset and leadership skills to drive impactful change. Through an applied project, you will gain practical experience in designing purposeful, sustainable solutions.

1 Stage 1 Core Modules for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program

Innovation sprint
Entrepreneurship: application and mindset
Design for user-centric, sustainable solutions
Systemic approaches, interdisciplinary solutions
Leadership for innovation and creativity (OL)
Creative thinking & innovation
Design your purposeful life
Applied sustainability project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,056.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 27,056.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 349.00 - USD 849.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfield campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

99%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising TechnologyConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsData Science & AnalyticsDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingFood Processing & ManufacturingHome Health & Long‑Term CareMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementMusic & Performing ArtsNetworking & Internet Services

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AIB

Amazon

Bank of Ireland

Citi

DHL

Deloitte

EY

European commission

Why Study Design Thinking for Sustainability at University College Dublin

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University College Dublin in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Design Thinking for Sustainability at University College Dublin

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is needed as long as you are enrolled in a full-time program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can submit scores from tests like Duolingo, IELTS, or TOEFL. Each test has specific score criteria, so check the requirements carefully.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include sustainability consultant, project manager, design strategist, corporate sustainability officer, and environmental innovator.

What will I actually study in this course?

This Masters degree focuses on key areas like human-centred problem-solving and sustainable solutions. You'll work on real-world projects and develop skills framed by the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The next intake for the Design Thinking for Sustainability program is in September. Be sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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