Master of Arts in Design Innovation Management - Online Degree

Course Overview

The Master of Arts in Design Innovation Management (ODL) at Asia Pacific University (APU) is an online postgraduate programme designed to develop advanced knowledge and skills in design innovation, creative management, and strategic leadership. The programme prepares professionals and aspiring leaders to understand how design and innovation can be used as strategic tools to enhance organisational competitiveness, improve user experiences, and create meaningful solutions in contemporary business environments.

The programme combines principles of design, innovation, and management, enabling students to explore how creative thinking and strategic design approaches can support organisational growth and transformation. Students develop expertise in areas such as design thinking, creative industries, business planning for creative entrepreneurship, integrated brand management, service design, future media innovation, and project feasibility analysis.

Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical application, students develop the ability to analyse real-world challenges, generate innovative ideas, and implement design-driven strategies. The programme also enhances critical thinking, creativity, research capabilities, leadership, and problem-solving skills required to manage innovation projects across different industries.

Delivered through the Online Distance Learning (ODL) mode, the programme provides flexibility for working professionals and learners to study anytime and anywhere while balancing career and personal commitments. It is suitable for individuals seeking to develop expertise in innovation management, design strategy, creative entrepreneurship, and organisational transformation.

Optional APU–DMU Dual Degree Scheme

Students enrolled in the Master of Arts in Design Innovation Management (ODL) may choose to participate in the optional APU–DMU Dual Degree Scheme. Upon successful completion of the programme, participants receive two degree certificates and academic transcripts—one awarded by Asia Pacific University (APU), Malaysia, and another by De Montfort University (DMU), United Kingdom.

Participation in this scheme is optional and requires an additional fee of GBP 375 per year.

General Entry Requirements

Applicants must satisfy one of the following requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.50 or an equivalent qualification accepted by the APU Senate; or

• A Bachelor’s degree with a CGPA below 2.50, which may be accepted subject to a minimum of 5 years of relevant working experience; or

• Another recognised Bachelor’s degree qualification with a minimum CGPA of 2.50, subject to passing the interview/portfolio assessment, submission of required documentation, and completion of prerequisite courses.