Transforming higher education

The University Design Institute at Arizona State University advances 
innovation and design in higher education across the globe.

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.

Our Global Reach

130+ Institutions

25 Countries


Explore our programs and services for higher education

 

 

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Reimagine

Institutions and systems redefine their purpose and impact in their communities, identify strategic priorities and create visionary roadmaps for success through reimagining academic models, student experiences or institutional impact.

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Blueprint

Redesign

Our redesign work supports higher education move forward in an inclusive and structured way, helping partners identify and validate key priorities, taking into account strengths, resources and key stakeholders to accelerate change.

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Rebuild

Transform ideas into lasting, impactful change through tailored programs and expert guidance. UDI supports our partners to implement their vision and sustaining progress through strategic actions.

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How we structure our higher education work

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.

Modernized University Mission

How is your institution positioned to support the communities it serves?

 

Agile and Inclusive Leaders and Culture

How is your institution or system fostering an environment in which all key stakeholders and leaders are intimately included and empowered to make decisions and influence change?

 

Diversified Partnerships and Financial Models

Which partners in your networks could benefit in new ways from collaboration?

 

Transformative Learner Experience

How are you nurturing student success throughout the lifelong educational journey?

 

Collaborative And Civic-Minded Research and Discovery

How are you collaborating with other institutions and industries to address grand challenges?

Robust Digital Solutions

How are institutions incorporating current and future digital technologies in university operations and student support?

 

Latest News and Impact Stories

The University Design Institute has worked with more than 130 institutions across 25 countries. Hear from some of our clients and partners about our work:

Multi-institutional activation in Vietnam

For more than a decade, Arizona State University has worked in Vietnam to transform and modernize engineering and technical vocational universities. The…


USAID/Philippines Mission Director Ryan Washburn (center, in suit and tie) and CHED Chairman J. Prospero De Vera III (center in white button-down shirt) launch the USAID UPSKILL Higher Education Innovation Leaders Fellowship Program. The launch featured the first batch of fellows, composed of 16 senior academic leaders and higher education officials from across the Philippines who will participate in an eight-month learning program, including sessions at Arizona State University, so they can drive innovatio

New ASU-led fellowship focused on reimagining higher education in the Philippines

UDI launched a fellowship program aimed at transforming higher education in the Philippines amidst challenges of access and degree attainment, as part of a…


A student and professor engaging in dialogue in a biology lab.

Innovating Public Health: ASU's New Technology Initiative

Inspired by Dr. Susan Blumenthal, Arizona State University’s Public Health Technology Innovation Initiative aims to revolutionize public health…