Design Thinking
Micro-DegreeOnline

Design Thinking

Book NowGet in Touch

Program Details

  • Language: English
  • Fees: €900
  • Study Mode: Full-time / Part-time
  • Registration Deadline: 31st December 2026
  • Entry requirements:
    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • Basic computer literacy
    • English Level B1 (CEFR) or equivalent

Study Access

Pay for one quarter and have access to the learning materials for 6 months, with the option to extend access if needed.

Program Coordinator

Prof. Dr. Steven Ney
Prof. Dr. Steven Ney

About This Course

This module is part of the “Rootcamp” which onboards students to the program, the teaching and learning methods. It teaches the principles, techniques and processes of Design Thinking, a user-centric approach to generating innovations.

The Design Thinking process combines methods and tools from the fields of design, engineering, the social sciences and business administration. The approach uses these tools to determine the latent desires and needs of future customers. This user-orientation is combined with the perspective of technological feasibility and economic viability. A team-based approach, it not only relies on the creativity of the individual, but also on collaboration and cooperation.

Learning Objectives

  • Acquire subject-specific theoretical and methodological knowledge
  • Explore, understand and apply the methods and mindsets of Design Thinking
  • Practice techniques using concrete project challenges
  • Learn how to effectively and productively contribute to a collaborative team
  • Practice teamwork and conflict management
  • Present in front of an audience and in the face of critique

Study Programs

This course is mandatory for the following study programs.

  • M.Sc. Advanced Digital Reality
  • M.Sc. Applied AI
  • M.Sc. Cybersecurity
  • M.Sc. Digital Leadership

This course is offered as an elective for the following study programs.

  • MBA Digital Technologies
  • MBA Digital Transformation

Micro Degree

  • This course is offered as a micro degree.
  • German UDS Micro Degrees are compatible with the European MOOC Consortiums Common Micro Credentials Framework.
  • Micro Degrees will be rewarded with an equivalent of 5 ECTS.
  • Micro Degrees are offered to non-regular students and require a fee of €900.

Requirements

Knowledge and skills as provided in the Prep courses.

General Information

  • Teaching Format: Content Videos, Discussion, Homework
  • Total Workload Master: 125h (40h/85h) / 5 ECTS
  • Total Workload MBA: 100h (30h/70h) / 4 ECTS
  • Total Workload Micro Degree: 125h (40h/85h) / Equivalent to 5 ECTS
  • Module coordinator: Prof. Dr. Steven Ney
  • Examinations: Design Thinking Project, Final Presentation, Written Exam
  • Offered: Odd quarters

Frequently Asked Questions

German UDS offers a range of cutting-edge digital programs in MBA, Master’s Programs and Micro-Degree Programs. Please refer to our University’s Study program page for further details.

Micro-Degree Programs:
- No specific requirements
Master’s Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum grade of 2.5 (German system) or equivalent
- English: Minimum B2
Additional requirements may apply (e.g., work experience for MBA & M.A. programs). Visit our admissions page for full details.

For our study programs you can apply as follows:

  • Micro-Degree Programs:
    Micro-Degree programs can be booked directly on our Micro-Degree page. Simply browse our available Micro-Degrees and enroll immediately without any application process.
  • MBA and Master’s Programs:
    01 Register/Login
    Begin by creating an account.
    After creating a new account, you’ll receive an email with a verification link. Click the link to verify your email address before proceeding.
    If you already have an account, simply log in to continue.
    02 Start Your Application
    After filling out the form, be sure to check your email. You will receive a message from us containing a direct link to start your application.
    Go to the “Start your Application!” and begin your application journey.
    Note: This option becomes available only after completing the registration and login.

MBA programs: €7,500 per year
Master’s programs: €7,500 per year
Micro-Degrees: €900 per program
For full details, visit the official admissions page.

Reliable high-speed internet connection
Computer (Windows or Mac) with webcam and microphone

Student life at German UDS is designed for maximum flexibility, enabling learners to study anytime, anywhere, and at their own pace. Whether enrolling in a free course or a full degree program, students have full access to online course materials and complete assignments within set deadlines, making it easy to balance education with personal and professional commitments. In addition to academic flexibility, students also enjoy a vibrant virtual campus experience through COVE – our Campus of Virtual Education. COVE provides an immersive digital environment where students can hang out in virtual spaces like the cafeteria, lounge, or library. It’s a place to connect, chat, and build friendships beyond the classroom. Regular online events, social gatherings, and themed meetups offer students opportunities to network, collaborate, and be part of a supportive international community.