Multidisciplinary Innovation MA/MSc
1 Year Full-Time | September Start

The course is project-focused and our teaching is designed to support project practice. Tutors will use a variety of methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials. As with other Masters degrees there is a major element of independent learning and self-motivated reflection.

Students will study one module per semester to allow flexibility around live projects and related timelines. You can expect practical involvement in multiple aspects of innovation and design-led co-creation. These include project scoping and planning, creative research and insight development, ideation and concept refinement, strategy development and communication, value definition, and pitching and reporting to clients. 

Our assessment strategy is designed to consolidate theory-rich project learning. Assessment methods include portfolios and project reports.

The course draws on the expertise of the Northumbria School of Design, which was named as one of Europe’s top design schools by US Business Week magazine, and which has an international reputation for innovation and creativity.

The course also leverages the resources of Newcastle Business School, with double accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) in business and accounting. The quality of our research, teaching and engagement with business were among the factors that led to Newcastle Business School being named ‘Business School of the Year’ at the Times Higher Education Awards 2015.

You will work in a dynamic studio environment, which brings together students, researchers and clients in a collaborative space. A place for exploration of big challenges, and co-creation of better solutions.

Northumbria works with a wide range of partners including regional businesses, national and multinational companies, government agencies and charities. Our partners include teams at Unilever who recognise the strength of Northumbria’s design, technology and business capabilities.

When you join this course you’ll become part of a community of knowledge experts, practice experts and external collaborators. Your learning and collaborative practice will be supported by the use of relevant technologies at or beyond industry standard.

Based at our City Campus, our studio which is located close to the tutor offices, library and digital commons, is equipped with mix of desktop PC's and Apple Mac's, white panels for project mapping, breakout rooms for tutorials and online meetings.

Our enquiry-based approach embeds research-rich learning within the course.

Each module will develop your understanding of research methodologies, encourage personal reflective enquiry, and engage you as a co-researcher in academic-led research programmes. These ongoing programmes are based around two interconnected communities: ‘design-led Responsible Innovation Practice’ and ‘Strategic Entrepreneurial Leadership’.

This course stands out from others because it enables you to engage directly with potential employers whilst honing (and showcasing) your creative, collaborative and communication skills.

You’ll build a portfolio and CV that lists actual strategic innovation and research projects that you will have undertaken, and which will have allowed you to build your own professional network.

During the course you’ll work with personal development experts from Newcastle Business School to develop a deep understanding of your personal and professional traits. You’ll learn how to use these traits whilst collaborating with others in innovative practices. This will develop a level of self-awareness and creative confidence that employers and recruitment agencies will find impressive.

"On personal level I believe MDI was so important for my career as it embodies everything that is critical to the success of modern business. Innovation, strategy, planning, teamwork. MDI put us one step ahead and I continue to implement the skills I acquired on a daily basis."
Luke Menzfeld, Multidisciplinary Innovation alumni, Business Analyst

On completion of the course you’ll be ready to take up strategic roles in many different contexts, where innovation is key. You’ll be highly employable, or if you prefer, equipped with the skills to launch your own business or continue in academia.

Innovation is increasingly a strategic priority, and by applying the skills you’ll learn on this exciting course, you’ll be able to lead and deliver positive change and competitively seek a career in this expanding sector.

The portfolio you’ll build through the practical experience gained will give you a distinct advantage, especially when combined with the valuable network of contacts you’ll make in the business community.

Some of our past graduates have gone on to have successful careers within a variety of roles including; Innovation Strategy Consultant, Global Category Manager, Lead Advanced Design Studio Engineer, Creative Account Manager, Innovation Manager, User Experience Researcher, Market Project Manager, and Head of 3D Department, to name but a few.

"If you're unsure whether to return to uni to join MDI... toss a coin, then do it anyway. It was one of the best decisions of my life, hands down."
Sarah Semple, Multidisciplinary Innovation alumni, Brand Designer & Strategist