Product Design and Development Management
The Master of Science in Product Design and Development Management offers an interdisciplinary and industry-focused curriculum that prepares students to lead the creation of innovative products from concept to market launch. The program integrates coursework in design strategy, project management, engineering fundamentals, and user-centered research, giving learners a comprehensive view of how products are envisioned, evaluated, and refined in competitive markets. Through hands-on ideation workshops, case analyses, and structured design processes, students explore how technical feasibility, customer needs, and business priorities intersect to shape successful product outcomes. This structure supports a deep understanding of the full product lifecycle while encouraging creative and strategic thinking.
In addition to conceptual instruction, the program emphasizes real-world application through team-based development projects, prototype testing, and collaboration with industry partners. Students strengthen competencies in product planning, design execution, cross-functional leadership, and innovation management while working with multidisciplinary teams that reflect real organizational structures. Engagement with design tools, engineering methods, and market analysis frameworks helps learners understand how decisions are made at every stage of development—from identifying user pain points to optimizing final delivery. By blending design insight with managerial expertise, the program equips graduates to guide product-oriented organizations with clarity, adaptability, and technical awareness.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Product Design and Development Management
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 July 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Project Management
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Design, Engineering & Product Strategy
• Principles of Product Design
• Engineering Concepts for Product Development
• User Research and Customer Insights
• Introduction to Product Strategy
Semester 2 – Project Management, Prototyping & Systems Thinking
• Project Management for Product Teams
• Prototyping Methods and Design Tools
• Systems Engineering and Integration
• Product Testing and Performance Evaluation
Semester 3 – Innovation, Market Dynamics & Advanced Development
• Innovation Management
• Market Analysis and Competitive Positioning
• Advanced Product Development Processes
• Cross-Functional Collaboration Workshop
Semester 4 – Leadership, Commercialization & Capstone Project
• Product Portfolio and Lifecycle Management
• Leadership for Design-Driven Organizations
• Commercialization and Go-to-Market Planning
• Product Design and Development Capstone Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for strategic, creative, and technical roles across industries where new product development drives organizational success. Many professionals work in product management teams, design consultancies, technology companies, and manufacturing organizations, contributing to user research, concept development, prototype evaluation, and launch planning. Responsibilities may include coordinating cross-functional teams, defining product requirements, conducting market assessments, refining user experiences, and managing development timelines from ideation through delivery. With strong preparation in design methodology and project leadership, graduates are also positioned for roles in innovation strategy, engineering program management, design operations, and product commercialization. The program further supports advancement into leadership positions where product vision, execution ability, and managerial insight shape long-term organizational growth.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to combine creative problem-solving with structured management skills to guide product innovation in fast-changing industries. Its curriculum emphasizes design-led thinking, strategic execution, and cross-functional leadership, providing a clear progression from foundational design principles to advanced product development and commercialization. The two-year format supports in-depth exploration through hands-on projects, interdisciplinary teamwork, and a capstone that showcases both strategic and technical capability. Students benefit from industry engagement, modern design tools, and experiential learning that prepares them to address real product challenges with confidence. For individuals seeking to shape impactful products and lead development teams, this program delivers a comprehensive and forward-focused academic experience.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
