Design Thinking MIN
Program Purpose
The Design Thinking minor helps you follow the example of Jesus Christ, the Divine Creator, by developing your ability to create and solve problems to bless others (see Moses 3:5). Its interdisciplinary nature emphasizes the value of approaching challenges from multiple perspectives, encouraging you to seek "the light which is in all things" (see D&C 88:13). This minor integrates courses from various departments to enhance creativity, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop highly sought-after professional abilities.
As a student in the Design Thinking minor, you will:
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Learn human-centered design principles.
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Apply the Design Thinking framework to solve complex problems.
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Learn from and collaborate with faculty and peers across disciplines.
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Develop key design skills.
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Leverage technology to improve lives.
Through this program, you will refine your creative and analytical abilities, draw closer to Heavenly Father, contribute to a better world, and build a stronger connection with Jesus Christ-the Creator of the heavens and the earth (see John 1:3).
Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate foundational knowledge of design thinking principles and processes Students will intellectually enlarge their understanding of design thinking by explaining and applying key elements of human-centered design-including empathy, problem framing, ideation, prototyping, and testing-to address complex, real-world challenges in thoughtful and rigorous ways.
Students will engage in character-building and spiritually strengthening practices by articulating and applying ethical design principles, demonstrating integrity, stewardship, respect for users, and conduct consistent with the values and teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Students will develop discernment and sound judgment by recognizing well-designed objects, processes, and systems, applying principles learned in coursework to evaluate quality, effectiveness, and alignment with human needs and societal good.
Students will prepare for lifelong learning and service by working productively in diverse, interdisciplinary teams, integrating multiple perspectives, communicating clearly with stakeholders, and co-creating solutions that serve authentic user and community needs.
Evidence of Learning
Capstone Experience
In the Design Thinking Minor capstone course, students engage in a collaborative, real-world design project in UX, education, or social innovation. The scope and complexity of the capstone projects require students to demonstrate all the Design Thinking minor learning outcomes. They must demonstrate foundational knowledge of design thinking principles and processes to identify and work toward a solution. They must apply ethical, responsible, and value-aligned decision-making in design contexts to make all the decisions required to understand the needs of the recipients, work within the constraints of the context, identify a plausible solution, and work toward achieving that end with a team of diverse students from different majors and backgrounds.