Leadership, Innovation, and Design
The Master in Leadership, Innovation, and Design offers a comprehensive academic environment for students who want to understand how creative thinking, organizational leadership, and strategic design approaches can transform systems, products, and experiences. The program blends conceptual knowledge with applied problem solving, allowing learners to explore design thinking, organizational behavior, and innovation methodologies. Through this structure, students develop strong competencies in strategic leadership, innovation management, design thinking, and creative analysis, enabling them to lead transformative initiatives across various industries.
This one year, full time and on campus program provides students with opportunities to work closely with faculty whose expertise spans creative leadership, design processes, and innovation ecosystems. Coursework emphasizes research based practices, user centered design, and collaborative project development. Students engage in immersive studio experiences and applied research modules that strengthen skills related to design strategy, organizational innovation, project leadership, and creative problem solving, preparing them to translate ideas into impactful outcomes within real organizational contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Leadership, Innovation, and Design
- Degree Type: S. Master
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 February 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Design
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Leadership and Design Thinking
• Introduction to Leadership, Innovation, and Design
• Organizational Behavior and Creative Strategy
• Design Thinking Principles and Applications
• Research Methods for Creative Inquiry
Semester 2 – Applied Innovation and Strategic Development
• Managing Innovation in Organizations
• User Centered Design and Experience Mapping
• Strategic Design Leadership
• Capstone Project in Leadership and Innovation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program enter professional environments that value creative leadership and the ability to design forward thinking solutions, qualifying for roles in innovation management, design strategy, organizational development, and creative consultancy across a wide range of industries. Many work in design firms, technology companies, nonprofit organizations, corporate innovation labs, and startups that rely on individuals skilled in guiding teams through complex design challenges and implementing user centered solutions. The program prepares students to conduct research, facilitate collaborative design processes, evaluate organizational needs, and lead multidisciplinary initiatives. This background allows graduates to contribute to strategic planning, product development, change management, and creative direction, while also providing a strong platform for those who wish to pursue leadership positions or entrepreneurial ventures that require an advanced understanding of innovation ecosystems.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it offers a powerful blend of creative leadership development, innovation focused learning, design centered analysis, and strategic problem solving that prepares them to navigate rapidly evolving professional landscapes. The curriculum encourages exploration of contemporary design practices and equips learners with the tools needed to understand complex systems, generate meaningful ideas, and lead collaborative teams. Through hands on studio work, research based assignments, and mentorship from experienced faculty, students gain practical expertise that enhances both their creative and managerial capacities. This program cultivates adaptable thinkers who can analyze opportunities, design effective solutions, and drive innovation within diverse organizational settings, making them well prepared for influential roles in the design and leadership sectors.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
