Transforming higher education

Recognizing that traditional models of higher education are inadequate in the face of rapid and unprecedented social, technological, and economic changes, the University Design Institute was created to catalyze transformation in higher education. UDI believes universities can and should be more powerful engines of social transformation and economic impact. Getting there requires bold, new designs; leapfrogging ideas; systemic approaches; and a relentless focus on innovation.

We help universities strengthen their capacity for innovation and transformation. Our engagements focus on Reimagining, Redesigning and Rebuilding higher education. We convene stakeholders for collaborative ideation, build capacity for design in the next generation of leaders, and support institutions to move from problems to prototypes for implementation. We aim to make ourselves redundant by developing deep capabilities within the institutions we work with so they are equipped to independently shape their own trajectories of transformation.

The University Design Institute structures its work around six design imperatives for higher education that span the full breadth of the institution and system. UDI has deep expertise around the globe in these six areas, ensuring that our work with partners is inclusive of local contexts.