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The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Master of Science in Design + Innovation (MDI) is a collaborative, interdisciplinary program that gives students the skills to solve complex problems using creativity. With a core of human-centered design, the program brings together faculty and perspectives from five of the UW-Madison’s schools and colleges to produce well-rounded designers, entrepreneurs, strategists and innovation leaders.

In this Master’s program, students will:

  • Be exposed to the lessons and perspectives of design thinking from five (5) of UW-Madison’s Schools and Colleges: Engineering, Human Ecology, Business, Information School, and Art
  • Work within interdisciplinary teams to complete real-world projects in conjunction with industry partners
  • Explore their own unique career path within the fields of Product Design, UI/UX design, Communication Design, and Design Strategy

Learn more about the program

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Dive into MDI and learn more about the program

See Program Overview 

People

Read about our current cohort of MDI students

Meet our Students

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Kathryn Ulrich

“For anyone looking to truly expand their current horizon and push themselves to think differently, I highly encourage you to look into the MDI program. Not only will you receive a one-of-a-kind educational experience with brilliant minds to open you up to new directions and ways of thinking, you also have the opportunity to create your own journey.”

KATHRYN ULRICH | DESIGN + INNOVATION

Meet more MDI Students and Alumni

Admissions

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Don’t hesitate! Apply now and get your journey started to becoming an MDI student today.

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Make yourself standout


The Creative Brief is your opportunity to show the program who you are and what you dream to do.

About the Creative Brief

Before your decision


The admissions process is easy, quick, and creative. Make sure you check all the requirements first.

Admissions Requirements