Key Features
- Covers fundamentals to advanced design thinking concepts.
- Emphasis on hands-on projects, case studies, and real-world applications.
- Beginners to expert-level courses from top universities and platforms with certifications.
- The average annual salary for a Design Thinking professional in the U.S. is $116,016.
Unlock high-paying roles in innovation, product management, and user experience design with design thinking. These courses equip you with sought-after skills, opening doors to careers in top companies like Google, Apple, IDEO, and IBM. Whether starting or advancing, this guide helps you master design thinking to solve problems creatively and lead impactful projects. Ready to elevate your potential? Read on.
What are Design Thinking Courses?
Design thinking courses guide through empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing to solve problems creatively. Having hands-on projects and real-life challenges, benefit both beginners and professionals. Starting from quick workshops to in-depth programs, the courses will empower you to lead innovations, drive results, and win at any business or field you operate in.
Top Design Thinking Courses Online: A Quick Overview
Course Title | Learning Outcomes | Rating | Certification Provided | Live or Recorded Lessons | Get Access |
Design Thinking for Innovation – Offered by University of Virginia – [Coursera] | Generate innovative ideas, take action on opportunities, understand design thinking, and evaluate impactful ideas. | 4.7/5 (8,940 reviews) | Yes | Recorded | Enroll Now! |
Experiencing Design: Deepening Your Design Thinking Practice – Offered by University of Virginia – [Coursera] | Develop a Personal Development Plan, learn six phases of design thinking, and bridge the gap to the pro level. | 4.8/5 (42 reviews) | Yes | Recorded | Enroll Now! |
Design Thinking in 3 Steps – [Udemy] | Apply design thinking frameworks, understand customer perspectives, create prototypes, plan, and conduct research. | 4.5/5 (56,268 reviews) | Yes | Recorded | Enroll Now! |
Design Thinking for the Greater Good: Innovation in the Social Sector – University of Virginia – [Coursera] | Employ design thinking for the social sector, generate innovative ideas, and learn real-world applications. | 4.7/5 (411 reviews) | Yes | Recorded | Enroll Now! |
Design Thinking for Beginners: Develop Innovative Ideas – [Udemy] | Apply design thinking steps, empathize with users, ideate solutions, prototype ideas, and pitch effectively. | 4.4/5 (54,430 reviews) | Yes | Recorded | Enroll Now! |
Develop your innovation – Certified Design Thinking Bootcamp – [Udemy] | Develop innovative products/services, optimize brainstorming, and connect with customer needs effectively. | 4.3/5 (2,597 reviews) | Yes | Recorded | Enroll Now! |
Complete Design Thinking Masterclass | eBook included – [Udemy] | Understand customers, manage design projects, deliver client value, and pitch ideas to investors. | 4.4/5 (2,091 reviews) | Yes | Recorded | Enroll Now! |
Please Note: We have not covered bonus courses in this table. However, we will discuss them later in the article.
Top Design Thinking Courses in Detail:
1. Design Thinking for Innovation – Offered by University of Virginia – [Coursera]
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- Cost: Starting from $49/month with a Coursera subscription.
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours
- Level: Beginner
- Instructor: Jeanne M. Liedtka (Darden School of Business)
- Key Topics:
- Introduction to design thinking.
- Using design thinking to create innovative solutions.
- Four key questions and tools for problem-solving.
- Evaluating ideas to maximize impact.
- Prerequisites: None; suitable for beginners with no prior experience.
- Scope:
- For individuals: Ideal for anyone seeking a structured approach to creative problem-solving.
- For professionals: Enhances innovation skills, making it applicable in business and other industries.
- Cons:
- Instructor delivery could be more engaging.
- Not suitable for those seeking in-depth advanced topics.
This beginner-level course teaches foundational design thinking concepts to generate innovative ideas and actionable solutions, emphasizing hands-on learning.
2. Experiencing Design: Deepening Your Design Thinking Practice – Offered by University of Virginia – [Coursera]
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- Cost: Starting from $49/month with a Coursera subscription
- Duration: Approximately 11 hours
- Level: Beginner to intermediate
- Instructor: Jeanne M. Liedtka, Jessica Eldridge, and Karen Hold
- Key Topics:
- Immersion, sensemaking, alignment, emergence, imagining, learning in action.
- Personal Development Plan (PDP) for skill growth.
- Prerequisites: Basic familiarity with design thinking concepts is helpful but not mandatory.
- Scope:
- For individuals: Helps understand and practice the design thinking process holistically
- For professionals: Supports organizational innovation and personal skill advancement.
- Cons:
- Lacks sufficient practical training for advanced learners.
- Limited real-world examples in the curriculum.
This course bridges the gap from beginner to pro, focusing on six design journey phases and their impact on outcomes.
3. Design Thinking in 3 Steps – [Udemy]
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- Cost: $189.99
- Duration: 1.5 hours (on-demand video)
- Level: Beginner
- Instructor: Alan Cooper and Designit Strategic Design
- Key Topics:
- Applying design thinking frameworks.
- Conducting design research and interviews.
- Prototyping and idea testing.
- Storyboarding and idea communication.
- Prerequisites:
- Enthusiasm for understanding customer needs
- Tools: timer, pen, pencil, highlighter, and notebook.
- Scope:
- For individuals: Ideal for those curious about design thinking without prior exposure.
- For professionals: Offers tools for brainstorming and user-centric project ideation.
- Cons:
- Elementary-level content may not suit advanced learners.
- Needs more in-depth modules for comprehensive learning.
A concise, beginner-friendly course that teaches design thinking essentials, ideal for rapid learning.
4. Design Thinking for the Greater Good: Innovation in the Social Sector – University of Virginia – [Coursera]
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- Cost: Starting from $49/month with a Coursera subscription
- Duration: 1.5 hours (on-demand video)
- Level: Beginner
- Instructor: Jeanne M. Liedtka (Darden School of Business)
- Key Topics:
- Design thinking concepts for NPOs and social initiatives.
- Techniques for generating actionable ideas.
- Global case studies from education, healthcare, and government.
- Prerequisites: None; perfect for beginners learning about social sector applications.
- Scope:
- For individuals: Focuses on solving societal challenges innovatively.
- For professionals: Especially valuable for social workers, policymakers, and educators.
- Cons:
- Limited supplementary resources beyond the course book.
- Best suited for those with a strong interest in social innovation.
This course applies design thinking to social sector challenges, highlighting its use in creating impactful solutions.
5. Design Thinking for Beginners: Develop Innovative Ideas – [Udemy]
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- Cost: $12.99
- Duration: 1 hour (on-demand video)
- Level: Beginner
- Instructor: Laura Pickel
- Key Topics:
- Empathizing with users through interviews.
- Defining problems based on observed data.
- Brainstorming and prototyping innovative solutions.
- Prerequisites:
- Familiarity with workplace challenges.
- Willingness to dedicate time to structured learning.
- Scope:
- For individuals: Suitable for employees and team leaders tackling daily challenges.
- For professionals: Great for HR teams and product managers focused on human-centric designs.
- Cons:
- Issues with the final assessment structure.
- Limited content depth for more advanced professionals.
This bestseller guides learners through the five-step design thinking process, emphasizing user-centric problem-solving.
6. Develop your innovation – Certified Design Thinking Bootcamp – [Udemy]
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- Cost: $15.99
- Duration: 2.5 hours (on-demand video)
- Level: Beginner to intermediate
- Instructor: Marcin Stasko
- Key Topics:
- Steps in the design thinking process.
- Advanced brainstorming techniques.
- Developing innovative products and services.
- Prerequisites: Motivation to innovate
- Scope:
- For individuals: Helps students and aspiring entrepreneurs develop ideas.
- For professionals: Ideal for project managers, coaches, and startup founders.
- Cons:
- Lower production quality compared to other courses.
- Limited content depth for advanced design challenges.
A practical boot camp offering hands-on projects and exams to challenge learners and foster innovation.
7. Complete Design Thinking Masterclass | eBook included – [Udemy]
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- Cost: $14.99
- Duration: 4.5 hours (on-demand video)
- Level: Intermediate
- Instructor: Andy Woynarowski
- Key Topics:
- Customer research and synthesis.
- Delivering design thinking projects.
- Pitching and prototyping ideas.
- Prerequisites:
- A strong desire to understand customers.
- Ambition to innovate and learn new methods.
- Scope:
- For individuals: Perfect for business owners and researchers wanting to refine user experiences.
- For professionals: Aimed at designers, product owners, and professionals using design thinking tools.
- Cons:
- Lack of engaging techniques by the instructor.
- Some content may feel overly theoretical.
A comprehensive course integrating theoretical and practical aspects of design thinking for real-world applications.
Bonus Courses on Design Thinking
8. Learning Design Thinking – [LinkedIn Learning]
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- Cost: Starting from $19.99/month (with a LinkedIn subscription).
- Duration: 33 minutes.
- Level:
- Rating: 6 based on 4,864 reviews
- Instructor: Randall Elliott
- Key Topics: Human-centered approach, empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing.
- Prerequisites: None; suitable for complete beginners.
- Scope: Ideal for quick learners or professionals needing a refresher.
- Cons: Limited depth due to short duration.
A short course focused on foundational design thinking concepts and applications for quick learning.
9. Mastering Design Thinking – [Massachusetts Institute of Technology]
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- Cost: $3,036.
- Duration: 3 months (6–8 hours per week).
- Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
- Rating: 9 based on 18 reviews
- Instructor: Steven Eppinger and Matthew Kressy
- Key Topics: Product development, user research, innovation economics, and prototyping.
- Prerequisites: Familiarity with product development or user-centric design.
- Scope: Ideal for executives, product managers, and R&D professionals.
- Cons: High cost and time commitment.
A detailed program offering advanced insights into design thinking with real-world applications.
10. Postgraduate Diploma in Innovation & Design Thinking (E-Learning) – [Emeritus]
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- Cost: $300.
- Duration: 9 months (4–6 hours per week).
- Level:
- Rating: 2 based on 11 reviews
- Instructor: Steven Eppinger
- Key Topics: Systematic thinking, financial analysis, life cycle analysis, and capstone project.
- Prerequisites: Experience in innovation or leadership roles.
- Scope: Tailored for professionals in leadership and strategic roles.
- Cons: Requires consistent weekly effort over nine months.
A comprehensive diploma emphasizing innovation and sustainability in design thinking.
11. MicroMasters® Program in Design Thinking – Offered by Rochester Institute of Technology – [edX]
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- Cost: $1,213.20.
- Duration: 6 months (8–12 hours per week).
- Level:
- Rating: 4 based on 152 reviews
- Instructor: Julie Napieralski, Lorraine Justice, Jennifer Englert, and Maria Ace
- Key Topics: User research, empathy, ideation, prototyping, and user feedback.
- Prerequisites: Background in design or strategic roles.
- Scope: Suitable for mid-career professionals and teams working on innovation.
- Cons: Requires significant time and effort.
A graduate-level cluster of courses offering advanced design thinking knowledge and certification.
12. Design Thinking: A Toolkit for Breakthrough Innovation – [Kellogg School of Management]
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- Cost: $2,210.
- Duration: 8 weeks (4–6 hours per week).
- Level:
- Rating: 0 based on 2 reviews.
- Instructor: David Schonthal.
- Key Topics: Design thinking principles, prototyping, ideation, and overcoming resistance to innovation.
- Prerequisites: Basic understanding of innovation and business models.
- Scope: Perfect for entrepreneurs, C-suite executives, and business leaders.
- Cons: Expensive for short duration.
A hands-on course emphasizing creative problem-solving and breakthrough innovation.
13. Innovation Through Design Thinking – [London Business School]
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- Cost: Not specified; contact LBS for details.
- Duration: 6 weeks (4–5 hours per week).
- Level:
- Rating: 8 based on 3 reviews
- Instructor: Julian Birkinshaw, Mary Ward, and Nathalie Ross Metcalf
- Key Topics: Stakeholder management, prototyping, innovation frameworks, and creativity techniques.
- Prerequisites: Basic innovation experience is helpful.
- Scope: Ideal for professionals in team leadership or innovation-focused roles.
- Cons: Limited live interaction.
A practical course focusing on innovation challenges and stakeholder engagement.
14. Design Thinking and Creativity for Business – [Insead]
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- Cost: €730.
- Duration: 6–8 hours.
- Level:
- Rating: 7 based on 251 reviews
- Instructor: Manuel Sosa.
- Key Topics: Creative problem-solving, fostering an innovation culture, and managerial strategies.
- Prerequisites: Leadership or team management experience.
- Scope: Designed for senior executives and managers.
- Cons: Short duration for the price.
A hands-on program equipping learners with creative and design thinking skills for organizational innovation.
15. Design Thinking: Theories and Applications – Offered by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University – [edX]
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- Cost: $99 (for certification).
- Duration: 5 weeks (2–4 hours per week).
- Level:
- Rating: 4 based on 152 reviews
- Instructor: Dr. Yuet Kai Chan, Jae-Eun Oh, and Dr Henry MA.
- Key Topics: Wicked problem-solving, design thinking theories, and tools.
- Prerequisites: None; suitable for all learners.
- Scope: Ideal for those new to design thinking.
- Cons: Limited advanced content.
A foundational course exploring design thinking for solving complex problems.
16. Design Thinking – [IDEO]
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- Cost: Most courses are under $799.
- Duration: Varies by course.
- Level: Beginner to Advanced.
- Rating: 9 based on 335 reviews
- Instructor: IDEO experts.
- Key Topics: Human-centered design, ideation, prototyping, and storytelling.
- Prerequisites: Varies; some courses assume basic design knowledge.
- Scope: Great for learners seeking practical, real-world insights.
- Cons: Expensive and lacks live interaction.
A series of self-paced courses by IDEO focusing on practical design thinking skills.
Why Pursue Design Thinking Courses?
- Creative Problem Solving: Tackle problems creatively with user-centered solutions.
- Career Development: Enhance employability with the most in-demand skills across industries.
- Practical Application: Implement concepts in real-world applications for impactful results.
- Interdisciplinary Insights: Integrate knowledge from various disciplines to provide holistic solutions.
Methodology for Selection of Courses:
- Accreditation and Certification: Opt for courses recognized by industry standards or institutions.
- Practical Exposure: Ensure programs include hands-on projects or case studies.
- Expert Instructors: Look for courses led by seasoned professionals or academics.
- Flexibility: Choose programs with online options and adaptable schedules for convenience.
Design Thinking – Industry Applications:
- Healthcare: Innovate patient care and improve medical services.
- Education: Develop user-friendly learning tools and environments.
- Business: Enhance product design and customer experiences.
- Technology: Drive software and hardware innovation through user insights.
FAQs:
- Who can take design thinking courses?
Professionals, students, and anyone interested in creative problem-solving. - Do I need prior experience?
Most beginner courses require no prior experience. - Are these courses online?
Many are available online with flexible schedules. - How long do these courses take?
Duration ranges from a few hours to several months. - What skills will I gain?
Empathy, ideation, prototyping, testing, and innovative problem-solving.
Conclusion:
Design thinking is a transformative skill that bridges creativity and strategy, helping you turn ideas into impactful solutions. It empowers professionals to excel in innovation, user experience, and product management across industries. Enrolling in a credible course will enhance your employability and give you the tools to make a lasting difference in your field. Start your journey today!