The integrative studies degree with a focus area in organizational design thinking combines courses in applied communication studies with courses from instructional technology. Through this course work, you will learn to apply design thinking methodology at the nexus of communication, technology, and organizational training.
Your coursework will teach you how to effectively redefine organizational problems, ideate to envision possibilities, facilitate processes to bring those ideations to fruition, and test your solutions to ensure meaningful results. And, what’s more, you will learn to do all of these within a design process that helps you create a culture of empathy among all stakeholders.
What is Organizational Design Thinking?
Design thinking is an innovative methodology for creatively uncovering and solving problems. This problem-solving methodology can be applied in many ways and across multiple settings. Design thinking can be used to improve processes, develop organizational structures, and create new products and services.
The heart of a design thinking methodology is developing user-centered empathy through systematic activities. Thus, design thinking is not about linearly applying algorithms. Rather, it’s about developing sensitivities to a problem’s context and considering the strengths and weaknesses of various technological and communicative solutions. Design thinking is partially an art, partially a science, and fully a human-centered activity that depends upon a theoretically-informed practice to best ensure reliable decisions in real-world situations.
Career Outlook
Graduates of the integrative studies degree with a focus in organizational design thinking can pave numerous paths. Principles of design thinking can be useful in a wide variety of organizations, including educational institutions, for-profit businesses, and non-profit organizations. The career outlook is not limited to becoming a technician who serves an organization, as graduates will be prepared to be an innovative leader, manager or entrepreneur.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
Expected April, October 2025
Start date
13 January 2025
College of Arts and Sciences
Peck Hall, Room 3409,
EDWARDSVILLE,
Illinois,
62026, United States
Successful completion of a bachelor's degree prior to enrollment. Applicants may be required to take prerequisites or resolve any deficiencies before classified status is approved.
Minimum GPA 3.25
International Applicants: Proof of English Proficiency, minimum requirements are TOEFL (79), IELTS (6.5) or equivalent
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is a nationally recognized, public institution offering high-quality, affordable education programs.