Innovation and Design LAB University of Applied Sciences

Overview

The future of innovation lies at the intersection of design, emerging technologies and evolving needs for human well-being. The Innovation + Design programme is a design degree for those who want to explore this intersection through design-led innovation. 

During your Innovation and Design from LAB University of Applied Sciences , you will learn to develop concepts and explore new possibilities through human-centred design, prototyping, and experience-driven innovation. You will also study interaction design and gain a deeper understanding of human needs and experiences. Multidisciplinary learning will bring perspectives from a range of fields into your studies. In the later stages of your studies, you will apply your skills in project-based learning, with opportunities for industry collaboration. 

LAB Institute of Design and Fine Arts – known as LAB Muotoiluinstituutti in Finland – is one of the oldest design schools in the Nordic countries. You will study in a creative community where a long tradition of design education meets new perspectives on innovation, emerging technologies, and the evolving role of designers. Our Nordic and international networks also provide opportunities to broaden your perspective through international exchange. 

Career opportunities

The Innovation + Design programme provides a broad foundation in design, preparing you for roles in design, development and innovation across a wide range of industries and organisations.

After graduation, your career opportunities may include developing human-centred products, services and experiences, as well as contributing to design-led innovation in emerging and future-oriented fields. The programme prepares you to create meaningful solutions that respond to human needs and enhance well-being and quality of life.

What do the studies include?

The Innovation + Design programme combines design knowledge with practical exploration and project-based learning. You will develop and apply design methods and tools through human-centred design, concept development, prototyping, and interaction design, with a focus on human needs, experiences and well-being. 

The first two years of the studies focus on building your design skills and deepening your understanding of human needs and experiences. As your studies progress, you will apply your knowledge and skills through project-based learning in future-oriented innovation contexts. You will also have opportunities for industry collaboration and participation in research, development and innovation (RDI) activities.

The four-year Innovation + Design programme comprises 240 ECTS credits. The studies progress from foundational and applied studies during the first two years to project-based learning and professional practice in the later stages of the programme. The studies include a 30 ECTS internship and a 15 ECTS bachelor’s thesis, enabling students to gain practical experience and strengthen their professional profile.