What are the Foundations?

We offer a methodological basic program in Design Thinking (Foundations). This eight-week methodology teaches you the essential elements and principles of Design Thinking. Our program closes the gap between different disciplines. While during your regular studies, you usually only get to know fellow students from this subject or similar areas, at the HPI d-school, you work in multidisciplinary teams.

How can I take part in the Foundations?

Applications for the Foundations for Design Thinking program are open to enrolled students from all academic disciplines at universities and colleges. No prior experience in Design Thinking is required, as all essential knowledge and methods will be taught during the program.

How many students are accepted per semester?

We offer a maximum of 40 places in the Foundations program. The program takes place on-site at the HPI d-school.

How much time do I have to invest in the program?

Foundations of Design Thinking, approx. 180 hrs total (120 hrs onsite + 60 hrs independent work) You can download the descriptions of the scope of the individual courses and the semester overviews with the planned times directly in the respective courses. Most of the courses take place on-site at the HPI d-school. You can find details in the semester overviews. You can find an overview of the current courses on our page about the Design Thinking Academic Program.

What financial contribution do I have to make for the Foundations?

Participation is free of charge for students of the Hasso-Plattner-Institut and the University of Potsdam. Enrolled Students from other universities and colleges are required to pay a processing fee of 100 €. If you change your mind, a refund of the fees is only possible if you cancel your registration by the deadline on the first day of the program. This applies to all programs with fees (Foundations and Global Design Thinking Workshops).

How do I receive credit points (ECTS) for my participation in the Foundations?

As a student participant in our programs, you will not only receive a unique experience but also a digital certificate and a proof of achievement (ECTS). The Foundations program is worth 6 credit points (ECTS). The recognition of credits and grades depends on the study and examination regulations of your home university. We recommend that you check with your examination office in advance to find out whether recognition is possible.

Is attendance mandatory?

The program is a 100% on-site program. To receive a certificate and 6 ECTS points, regular, on-time, physical attendance on all program days is required. Participants may have up to two (2) absences due to private or professional reasons or unexpected illness. More than two absences will result in an individual consultation with the program team. Repeated absences or lateness may lead to not receiving a certificate.

Foundations

Foundations for Design Thinking

Design Thinking

Overview

Build a solid foundation in Design Thinking and put your skills into practice in a real-world project.

This 20-day course offers enrolled students at universities and colleges the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Design Thinking. You will learn mindsets, tools, and methods, guided by experienced coaches. Working in an interdisciplinary team, you will apply the approach to a real-world challenge from one of our project partners and strengthen your creative confidence.

Key Facts

Language

English

Is this program for me?

Are you new to Design Thinking and eager to explore it through practical experience? Would you like to gain a method alongside your studies that helps guide innovation processes towards human-centered solutions?

If so, this applied foundational course with a hands-on project is perfect for you.

ECTS points

You can complete the course with 6 ECTS points.

Program includes

You will receive a digital certificate from a renowned Design Thinking school with a description of the achievements.
You receive an individual performance record.
You get creditable ECTS points for a certified additional course of study.

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