QS Rank:

801

Maynooth University

Leinster
,Ireland

Program Name
MSc in Design Innovation

Deadline
June 30th, 2026
Overview
The MSc in Design Innovation at Maynooth University is a premier program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of design innovation. This program is more than just an academic endeavor; it is a transformative experience that prepares students to tackle real-world problems through innovative design solutions. The curriculum is meticulously structured, combining theoretical foundations with practical applications, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the complexities of the design industry. With a duration of just 12 months, students can expect an immersive learning journey that is both intensive and rewarding.
The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers crucial aspects of design innovation management. Students will delve into courses such as Design Thinking, User-Centered Design, and Innovation Strategies, which are designed to foster critical thinking and creativity. In addition to these core courses, students will engage in interdisciplinary projects that encourage collaboration and diversity of thought. The faculty members are experts in their fields, bringing a wealth of experience from academia and industry, which enriches the learning environment. Their teaching methodology is centered around hands-on learning, ensuring that students not only understand theoretical concepts but can also apply them effectively in real-world scenarios.
Research opportunities are a cornerstone of the MSc in Design Innovation program. Maynooth University is committed to fostering a robust research culture, providing students access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects that align with their interests, often collaborating with faculty and industry partners. This exposure to cutting-edge research not only enhances students' understanding but also positions them as knowledgeable contributors to the field. The university’s focus on research extends to supporting students in publishing their findings and presenting at conferences, thereby amplifying their academic credentials.
The connection between Maynooth University and the industry is another significant advantage of this program. With a strong emphasis on practical experience, students are provided with opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with industry leaders. These connections not only enhance students' employability but also provide invaluable networking opportunities that can lead to future career advancements. The university’s career services are dedicated to assisting students in finding internships that match their career aspirations, ensuring that they graduate with practical experience and a strong professional network.
Graduates of the MSc in Design Innovation program are well-equipped to pursue various career pathways in sectors such as product design, user experience (UX) design, and design management. The program prepares students for roles such as Design Strategist, UX Researcher, and Innovation Consultant. Alumni have successfully secured positions in prestigious companies and startups alike, with many taking on leadership roles due to their unique skill set. The high employability rate of graduates speaks volumes about the quality of education and the strong industry connections fostered by the university.
Maynooth University takes pride in its diverse and inclusive community, with international students making up a significant portion of the student body. This diversity enriches the learning environment, allowing students to gain insights from different cultures and perspectives. Alumni testimonials frequently highlight the supportive community and the high-quality education they received, which has significantly contributed to their professional success. The university's commitment to student success is evident, with numerous support services available to help students thrive academically and personally.
In summary, the MSc in Design Innovation at Maynooth University offers a unique blend of rigorous academic training, practical experience, and research opportunities in an environment that celebrates diversity and innovation. This program not only prepares students for immediate employment but also fosters the development of critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills that will serve them throughout their careers.
Why Study MSc in Design Innovation at Maynooth University?
- A top-ranked program with a strong focus on practical learning and real-world applications.
- Access to a diverse curriculum that includes cutting-edge courses in design thinking and innovation management.
- Expert faculty members with extensive industry experience and academic credentials, providing students with a rich learning experience.
- Extensive research opportunities that encourage collaboration and innovation, fostering independent and creative thinkers.
- Strong connections with industry leaders, offering valuable internship and networking opportunities to enhance career prospects.
- A vibrant international community that enriches the educational experience and fosters global perspectives.
The entry requirements for the program typically include a relevant undergraduate degree and proficiency in English. Students must demonstrate their English language skills through standardized tests such as IELTS (minimum score of 6.5), PTE (minimum score of 62), or TOEFL (minimum score of 95). Interested applicants are encouraged to check the specific prerequisites and submit their applications in a timely manner to secure their place in this prestigious program.

Duration
12 Months
Ranking
#1198
US World and News Report
#501
The World University Rankings
#801
QS World University Rankings
Class Profile
Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6.5

PTE
62

TOEFL
95

Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.
Application Deadlines
| Regular | |
|---|---|
| Summer | Jun 30, 2026 |
FAQs
The entry requirements for the MSc in Design Innovation program typically include:
- A relevant undergraduate degree.
- Proficiency in English, which can be demonstrated through standardized tests such as:
- IELTS: minimum score of 6.5
- PTE: minimum score of 62
- TOEFL: minimum score of 95
Interested applicants are encouraged to check the specific prerequisites and submit their applications in a timely manner to secure their place in this prestigious program.
The MSc in Design Innovation program is structured to last just 12 months, providing an immersive and intensive learning experience. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the complexities of the design industry.
Students will cover crucial aspects of design innovation management through courses such as:
- Design Thinking
- User-Centered Design
- Innovation Strategies
Additionally, students will engage in interdisciplinary projects that encourage collaboration and diverse thinking, enhancing their overall learning experience.
The teaching methodology of the MSc in Design Innovation program is centered around hands-on learning. This approach ensures that students not only understand theoretical concepts but can also apply them effectively in real-world scenarios. Faculty members, who are experts in their fields, bring a wealth of experience from both academia and industry, enriching the learning environment.
Graduates of the MSc in Design Innovation program are well-equipped to pursue various career pathways in sectors such as:
- Product design
- User experience (UX) design
- Design management
Specific roles include:
- Design Strategist
- UX Researcher
- Innovation Consultant
The program's high employability rate reflects the quality of education and the strong industry connections fostered by Maynooth University, with alumni successfully securing positions in prestigious companies and startups alike.
The MSc in Design Innovation program stands out for several reasons:
- A top-ranked program with a strong focus on practical learning and real-world applications.
- Access to a diverse curriculum that includes cutting-edge courses in design thinking and innovation management.
- Extensive research opportunities that encourage collaboration and independent thinking.
- Strong connections with industry leaders, offering valuable internship and networking opportunities.
- A vibrant international community that enriches the educational experience and fosters global perspectives.
Research opportunities are a cornerstone of the MSc in Design Innovation program at Maynooth University. The university is committed to fostering a robust research culture and provides students access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects that align with their interests, often collaborating with faculty and industry partners.
This exposure to cutting-edge research not only enhances students' understanding but also positions them as knowledgeable contributors to the field. The university supports students in publishing their findings and presenting at conferences, thereby amplifying their academic credentials.
The MSc in Design Innovation program offers several advantages that enhance career prospects:
- Strong emphasis on practical experience through internships and collaborative projects with industry leaders.
- Opportunities for networking with professionals in the design and innovation sectors.
- Dedicated career services to assist students in finding internships that match their career aspirations.
These connections and experiences not only enhance employability but also provide invaluable networking opportunities that can lead to future career advancements.
Maynooth University takes pride in its diverse and inclusive community, with international students comprising a significant portion of the student body. This diversity enriches the learning environment, allowing students to gain insights from different cultures and perspectives.
Alumni testimonials frequently highlight the supportive community and the high-quality education they received, which has significantly contributed to their professional success. The university's commitment to student success is evident through numerous support services available to help students thrive academically and personally.
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