Futures and Design, MS

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Futures and Design (MSF&D) from ASU's School for the Future of Innovation in Society equips students with the knowledge and skills to envision and create positive futures. Through a transdisciplinary approach, students explore future-focused theories, speculative design, and foresight studies to develop solutions for complex problems. Graduates are prepared for careers in strategy, design, innovation, and social change, where they can navigate uncertainty and drive positive change.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Name: Master of Science in Futures and Design (MSF&D)
• Offered by: School for the Future of Innovation in Society
• Credits: 33 credit hours
• Key Subjects: Future-focused theories and practices, speculative design, science fiction, foresight studies, social theory, innovation studies, design science

Objectives:

• To equip students with the knowledge and skills to create positive change and envision new futures.
• To prepare students for careers in various fields, including strategy, design, innovation, and social change.

Program Description:

• Combines theory and practice to investigate and craft alternative futures.
• Students learn about future-oriented theories and methods used by organizations today.
• Students work in transdisciplinary teams with professional partners to produce compelling visions of the future in diverse media.

Outline:

• Required Core (15 credit hours):
• HDA 581 Emerging Media Colloquium (3)
• HSD 550 Prototyping Futures (3)
• HSD 551 Future-Focused Research Methods (3)
• HSD 552 Worldbuilding and Imagination (3)
• HSD 555 Strategic Design Futures (3)

Teaching:

• The program utilizes a collaborative and transdisciplinary approach.
• Students work in teams with professional partners from industry and the community.
• The program leverages the Media and Immersive eXperience (MIX) Center for emerging media technologies.

Careers:

• Graduates are equipped with skills in uncertainty navigation, design thinking, and strategic coping with disruptive change.
• Potential career paths include:
• Director of Futures Strategy
• Futurist
• Global Trends Manager
• Growth Strategist
• Ideation Leader
• Issues Manager
• Principal Foresight Researcher
• Strategic Planner

Other:

• The program encourages students to study abroad and participate in global research and professional development opportunities.
• Students learn about scenario planning, a key management tool for anticipating and navigating future challenges.