Graduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Design Strategy, George Brown College

9 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The Interdisciplinary Design Strategy Program at the Brookfield Sustainability Institute is a nine-month postgraduate-level credential offered at George Brown College. Starting each September, students work collaboratively to research, design, and realize real-world projects focused on sustainable solutions and social innovation. The curriculum employs a design-based educational model that fosters cross-disciplinary learning, breaking down geographic, cultural, and social barriers to develop solutions for global challenges. Students engage in immersive project work, including paid consulting within the BSI's Global Solutions Studio, mentored by industry leaders. The program emphasizes sustainable design principles, systemic thinking, and collaboration across fields such as geography, art, architecture, economics, and more, preparing students to become innovative problem solvers capable of addressing complex societal issues.

Why this course is highly recommended

If you're passionate about using design as a tool for positive change, this program offers a unique opportunity to develop advanced design methodologies and social innovation skills. The practical, project-based curriculum connected to real-world issues makes students industry-ready, especially in solving global challenges like urban food security, climate change, and community resilience. The program’s emphasis on interdisciplinary teamwork and global projects offers valuable experience and networks, preparing graduates for impactful careers across government, non-profits, cultural institutions, and private sectors worldwide.

Specialisation

This program promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, welcoming candidates from diverse fields like geography, economics, art, architecture, journalism, and beyond. The focus is on forging solutions through systemic design strategies tailored for real-world challenges. Students work in interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive proposals, involving research, design, and stakeholder presentations, with a particular emphasis on social and environmental sustainability.

Course fees

Application fees

10.23L

1st year tuition fees

10.23L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Prospective students should hold a diploma or bachelor's degree. Further application components include an applicant questionnaire, resumé, and a digital portfolio. International applicants with transcripts not in English must also complete a college-level English assessment. The program continues to accept applications until seats are filled, typically by July or August before the September start date.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

IELTS

6.5

DUOLINGO

120

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the George Brown College admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates from this program find opportunities in a wide range of settings, including not-for-profits, cultural institutions, government, and private corporations. Alumni have secured roles globally at organizations such as Doctors without Borders, Art Gallery of Ontario, IDEO, Ministry of Culture in Costa Rica, Frog Design in New York, and Bruce Mau Design. The program prepares students to be problem solvers and strategic thinkers, capable of tackling complex societal challenges across industries like urban planning, social innovation, sustainability, and design consultancy.

FAQs

What is the duration of the program?

The program lasts nine months, starting each September.

What are the tuition fees for international students?

International tuition is approximately $29,520, plus additional costs for materials and fees.