Course Code: BDES 4000
Academic Year: 2025-2026
This course is the first of two major capstone courses in which students apply design thinking to solve problems, using the skills gained over the first three years of the program in human-centered design research, collaborative insight generation, and design process. Students plan, research and execute a major thesis paper and project which will serve as the centerpiece of their design portfolio. Students identify a specific problem, and explore the systems, stakeholders, constraints surrounding that topic or system. Topics are defined based on human problems, rather than technological problems, even though solutions may include digital, physical, or service experiences. Students use design methods to identify potential solutions and explore different innovations that might lead to better experiences for people. They investigate the work of others in the design community-at-large to multiply ideas, and in some cases, partner with industry mentors and/or contribute to external initiatives. In this first of two courses, Capstone Definition, students articulate a problem statement, develop a research plan, then regularly present their progress for ongoing critique with peers and instructors. Students are also required to identify an industry mentor who can support their ongoing thesis development in addition to their instructors and Humber mentors. At the end of the semester, students are required to present a formal defense of their thesis proposal. This course supports the student's development of their thesis through coaching, critique, developing self-reflection, critical awareness, and analysis.