The Ontario College of Art and Design University (OCAD U) is a renowned institution located in Toronto, Canada, dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation through art, design, and digital media education. As Canada's largest and oldest university specializing in art and design, OCAD U offers a diverse range of programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as continuing studies and research opportunities. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, OCAD U provides a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where students can explore their artistic passions, engage in critical discourse, and develop the skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in the creative industries.

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Gain design thinking and foresight skills to enhance business success, positively impact society and manage organizational change. Embark on a path as a new kind of designer. Become a strategist who sees the world from a human perspective and re-think what is possible. You’ll learn complex problem finding, framing and solving to create sustainable futures. Lead innovation alongside a diverse cohort of peers including entrepreneurs, social scientists, artists, designers and engineers to imagine, plan and develop a better world. This program prepares you to think holistically - exploring, challenging and finding meaning in order to reframe and guide both present and future actions. Show less

Program Pathways
In the SFI program, you will develop design-thinking skills that include analysis, synthesis and strategic and creative thinking. These skills are critical for professionals in the public and private sectors. This program will develop your expertise in foresight (for example, identifying future problems) and research methodologies. These skills will help you create innovative and future-enhancing solutions in your final research project.

The program will enable you to:

Explore and test innovative methods of organization, creation and production from a human perspective
Develop strategic, innovative and anticipatory solutions (strategic foresight) and implementation plans for design, business or policy innovations, or for organizational or infrastructural change
Navigate complex problems and find solutions that will lead to the development of new and sustainable futures.

The Learning Environment
In this program your learning environment includes:

a diverse student body with access to outstanding faculty and industry experts
a collaborative studio environment in your core classes. You’ll work in trans-disciplinary teams on many projects
an advisory committee of faculty and, in the case of real-world projects, public or private sector professionals will support and guide your major project
guest lectures and critiques from professional strategists and foresight experts

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OCAD University, formerly known as the Ontario College of Art and Design University, is a leading institution dedicated to fostering innovation, creativity, and critical thinking in the fields of art, design, and digital media. Located in Toronto, Canada, OCAD U has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1876. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as continuing studies, research opportunities, and professional development courses. As Canada's largest and oldest university specialized in art and design, OCAD U is renowned for its forward-thinking approach to education and its commitment to preparing students for the rapidly evolving creative industries. The university embraces an interdisciplinary approach that encourages collaboration and exploration across disciplines, enabling students to gain a well-rounded understanding of the creative process. OCAD U boasts a vibrant and diverse community of students, faculty, and staff, who contribute to the rich tapestry of artistic expression and innovation on campus. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized studios, labs, and exhibition spaces, where students can experiment, create, and showcase their work. At OCAD U, students have the opportunity to engage with renowned faculty members who are accomplished artists, designers, and scholars in their respective fields. Through a combination of rigorous academic instruction, hands-on studio work, and critical discourse, students develop the necessary skills and knowledge to become leaders and change-makers in their chosen creative fields. Beyond the classroom, OCAD U actively promotes community engagement and collaboration. The university encourages students to connect with the vibrant arts and design scene in Toronto, forging meaningful partnerships with industry professionals and cultural organizations. This emphasis on real-world experience prepares students for successful careers and entrepreneurial endeavors in the global creative economy. With its rich heritage, commitment to innovation, and emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, OCAD University continues to be at the forefront of art, design, and digital media education. It nurtures and empowers the next generation of creative thinkers, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and making a significant impact in the cultural landscape of Canada and beyond.

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You will need to book the accommodation after you have been accepted.

You can choose to live on campus or off campus in private accommodation.

How to book:

• Make a booking online after you have been accepted (in this case please let us know your choice when you apply).
• Register when you arrive - its not possible to reserve a room before arriving. You can arrive a few days before and book it

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