Core
Topics
With a focus on digital aspects of newly developing design media, the program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to new technologies, bringing together Graphic Design, Computer Science, Mathematics or Physic.
Computational
Design Techniques
The computational design facet of the program stands at the intersection of innovation and creativity, focusing on the application of a wide array of algorithms and techniques to revolutionize the way we approach visual communication, 3D asset creation, object design for rapid prototyping, and visual effects.
This area empowers students to dive deep into the mechanics of generative algorithms, machine learning, and parametric design, equipping them with the skills to push the boundaries of traditional design practices
This emphasis on computational design prepares graduates to lead in fields where technology and creativity merge, making them highly sought after in industries ranging from entertainment and gaming to architecture and product design.
Computer Science Foundations
The computer science foundations of the program, covered during the first two semesters, lay the groundwork for a deep understanding of computational thinking and programming.
Focusing on Python, students are introduced to essential concepts of computer sciences, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in more advanced computational design applications
Generative Design & CGI
Within the program, the generative design and Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI) modules place a strong emphasis on mastering SideFX Houdini, leveraging its powerful procedural modeling capabilities through VOPs and scripting with VEX.
This specialized training prepares students to create intricate, dynamic visual effects and 3D assets, opening the door to cutting-edge opportunities in animation, visual effects, and digital art.
Creative AI Techniques
The creative AI segment of the program explores the transformative potential of machine learning and AI techniques as novel mediums for design expression, emphasizing the creation of unprecedented forms of visual and interactive art.
Utilizing a suite of innovative tools, students learn to blend artistic intuition with computational power, pioneering new frontiers in AI-driven design and aesthetics.
Nature & Physics Inspired Techniques
The Nature and Physics-inspired techniques aspect of the program delves into the rich potential of borrowing algorithms and methodologies from diverse scientific fields to forge novel and meaningful design approaches.
By exploring and applying principles from biology, physics, engineering and beyond, students are encouraged to develop innovative aproaches, resonating with the complexity and beauty of the natural world.
Design
Research
The general design research component of the program is fundamentally about advancing knowledge through the practice of design, fostering a deep exploration of new techniques and approaches alongside their societal and communicative impacts.
This emphasis on research through design equips students with a robust toolkit encompassing scientific methods, advanced research skills, scholarly paper writing proficiencies, and the intricacies of publishing their findings. Moreover, the program is dedicated to nurturing network-building skills, ensuring that students not only contribute to the academic and professional discourse in design but also establish themselves within the global design research community.
Through this comprehensive educational experience, students are prepared to question, innovate, and influence, positioning themselves at the forefront of design thought and practice with a keen understanding of its role and responsibility in shaping society.
Research Basics
Within this part of the program, students are introduced to the foundational aspects of research, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies that are essential for rigorous academic and practical inquiry.
They learn how to formulate research questions, design experiments, collect and analyze data, and effectively communicate their findings, laying the groundwork for impactful design research that can influence both theory and practice.
Scientific Methods
The program teaches students the scientific methods fundamental to conducting design research, emphasizing the importance of hypothesis formulation, experimental design, data collection, and analysis.
This approach equips students with the ability to critically evaluate their design processes and outcomes, fostering a systematic and empirical inquiry into the effects of design.
Publishing
In the program, students also delve into the nuances of scientific publishing, learning how to craft compelling, research-based articles for journals and conferences, thereby contributing to the broader discourse in the design field.
Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of networking, touching on strategies for building professional relationships and collaborating with scholars, practitioners, and industry leaders to enhance their research impact and career opportunities.
Design
Studio
The design studio represents the heart of project-based learning, providing a dynamic and collaborative environment where master's students, lecturers, industry professionals, and professors come together to explore, experiment, and execute innovative design projects.
Within this tight-knit community, students have the unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges, benefiting from the diverse perspectives and expertise of their peers and mentors.
This hands-on approach not only fosters a deep understanding of design principles and methodologies but also encourages the development of critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills.
The involvement of industry professionals ensures that projects are aligned with current trends and real-world demands, preparing students for successful careers in the design industry.
Through this immersive experience, the design studio cultivates a culture of creativity, experimentation, and excellence, making it a pivotal component of the program.
Project Based Work
The project-based learning aspect of the program is designed to immerse students in real-world design challenges, encouraging them to apply and synthesize knowledge across various disciplines to develop innovative solutions.
This experiential learning approach not only enhances students’ problem-solving and creative thinking skills but also prepares them for the complexities of professional design practice by fostering collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication within a project team setting.
Team Building & Coaching
The program places a strong emphasis on team building and coaching, providing structured opportunities for students to cultivate teamwork skills and foster collaborative relationships within their project groups.
Through guided coaching sessions, students learn to navigate interpersonal dynamics, leverage individual strengths, and develop leadership qualities, ensuring that every team member contributes effectively to achieving collective goals and driving project success.
The Right Tools
In the realm of design research, an in-depth knowledge of specific tools is paramount, enabling researchers to collect, analyze, and interpret data with precision and creativity.
The program equips students with expertise in a wide array of digital and analytical tools, from data visualization software to qualitative analysis applications, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle complex questions and contribute insights to the field of design.
Your
Thesis
The master's thesis marks the culmination of the program, offering students the opportunity to demonstrate the breadth and depth of their learning through an extensive research project.
This pivotal academic endeavor requires students to identify a compelling research question that addresses a gap or challenge within the design field, drawing upon the theories, methodologies, and skills acquired throughout their studies.
Under the guidance of faculty advisors and with support from peers and industry professionals, students engage in rigorous research, analysis, and synthesis, ultimately producing a thesis that not only contributes to academic knowledge but also has the potential to influence practice.
The process of developing and writing the thesis sharpens students' research capabilities, critical thinking, and scholarly communication, preparing them for successful careers in design research, academia, or industry.
This final project is a testament to their ability to conduct independent, innovative research and signifies their readiness to contribute to the advancement of design as a discipline.
A Deep Dive Into Multidisciplinary Design
The multidisciplinary nature of the master's thesis encourages students to integrate knowledge and methodologies from various fields, fostering innovative solutions that reflect the complexity of real-world design challenges.
This approach not only enriches the research process but also broadens the impact of their findings, enabling students to contribute novel perspectives and solutions that transcend traditional design practice.
Document Your Progress
Documenting the thesis project is a critical aspect of the research process, requiring students to meticulously record their methodologies, analyses, findings, and reflections.
This documentation not only serves as a comprehensive account of their scholarly journey but also enhances the transparency and reproducibility of their research, contributing valuable insights and knowledge to the broader design community.
Present & Defend Your Thesis
Presenting and defending the thesis is a pivotal moment in the program, providing students with the opportunity to articulate their research findings and the significance of their work to a panel of faculty, peers, and industry professionals.
This process not only demonstrates their mastery of the subject matter but also hones their ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, engaging with critical feedback to defend their methodologies and conclusions.
