Design for Social Innovation
As the potential of design continues to realize itself in new domains and wicked problems, schools are developing new programs to prepare students for work in the field’s wild west. I recently received a letter from Marc Rettig, principal of Fit Associates, introducing me to a new masters program in Design for Social Innovation at the School of Visual Arts in New York. Marc is helping to launch the program, which in his own words, “embodies everything I’ve been learning about and starting to practice over the last few years, and more.” If you are unaware of Marc’s work, I implore you to check out his presentation, Making an Impact, given at the IIT Design Research Conference in 2009, or How to Do a Better Job of Changing the World, from UX Workshop. Marc has done some fantastic work in his career, and is a thought leader on design’s role in social change.
The MFA in Design for Social Innovation will prepare students to apply the principles and ethics of social innovation as filters for understanding and as a discipline for engaging with and improving the world through design. Graduates of the program will be more than graphic designers, filmmakers, advertising creative directors or interactive systems designers. They will be all these, mastering all the skills and knowledge of how to apply them to have a positive impact on business, society and their own lives.
The program is filling out its first class of 25 visual thinkers and creative talents. They’re wanting designers, graduates in other disciplines, and professionals who are looking for a career with a purpose. Applications are due by late January. For more information, read the Fast Company article and visit the program’s website.
