Primary campus
Sir George Williams (SGW)
Innovation Mindset (Microprogram)
Master design thinking, drive innovation and create impact—locally and beyond.
Credits
9 credits
Start term
Winter
Modality
In-person
Schedule
Daytime
Program overview
Innovation is the key to solving today’s complex challenges. Innovators help organizations and communities learn to change in a way that adds value to their system. This microprogram consists of learning about models, concepts, methods and strategies for innovation, in order to positively influence our collective environment. Students will develop skills and confidence to assess problems, design and pitch projects, analyze outcomes and improve based on feedback while working in teams.
Program highlights
- Experiential focus: Hands-on projects aligned with current societal and industry needs.
- Transdisciplinary approach: Open to students from arts, sciences, engineering, business and more.
- Supportive community: Work alongside peers and mentors from the Concordia Innovation Lab and Quebec’s innovation ecosystem.
Watch the innovation mindset in action
Skills
This program equips you with the skills to:
- Think critically and creatively.
- Collaborate effectively and communicate with impact.
- Strategize and implement solutions for real-world problems.
This microprogram is closely linked to the activities of the Concordia Innovation Lab.
Program structure
Fall/Winter/Summer - 9 Credits
Winter:
INOV 200 – Innovation Models and Concepts (3 credits)
Learn foundational frameworks like design thinking and systemic design, and explore the concepts of incremental, radical and disruptive innovation.
Summer:
INOV 300 – Innovation Methods and Strategies (3 credits)
Master qualitative data-driven techniques, including ethnographic methods and storytelling, to inform and communicate your innovation strategies effectively.
Fall:
INOV 400 – Applied Innovation Project (3 credits)
Apply your skills in a real-world capstone project, creating innovative solutions to complex challenges, guided by mentors or industry partners.
Admission requirements
This microprogram welcomes:
- Non-traditional learners, including mature students and mid-career professionals.
- Individuals eager to upskill and engage in innovation across industries.
The microprogram is open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents only.
No previous university degree or diploma required for acceptance.
How to apply
- Create a Concordia netname if you don't yet have one. A netname gives you access to the Concordia application system, shared student computers, and more.
- Complete an application (or click the "Apply Now" button). Make sure to select “Undergraduate Microprogram” from the list.
- Include your supporting documents. You'll need:
- Letter of intent expressing your interest in innovation (max. 800 words).
This letter of intent must:- Explain your reasons for applying to the program (max. 200 words).
- Summarize your goals and experience in innovation (max. 200 words).
- Include a pitch for an innovation idea (max. 400 words).
- Proof of your citizenship or immigration status in Canada.
- Letter of intent expressing your interest in innovation (max. 800 words).
You can upload your documents to your application after submitting it. However, please note that we cannot complete the assessment of your application until we receive all required documents.
Tuition and fees
The cost of the microprogram is a combination of university tuition and compulsory fees.
The cost of tuition per credit depends whether you reside in Quebec or the rest of Canada. This is a 9‑credit microprogram.
| Residency | Tuition | Compulsory fees | Estimated program total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quebec resident | $935.28 | $609.57 | $1,544.85 |
| Non-Quebec Canadian | $3,895.65 | $609.57 | $4,505.22 |
Note: Microprogram students do not qualify for financial assistance, awards, fee waivers, bursaries, or scholarships internally to Concordia or externally at the provincial/federal levels.
Deadline
Apply now for Winter 2027!
We consider complete applications year-round and we give priority to applicants who apply by the official deadline. Late applications will be considered if places are still available.
We reserve the right to close admission to a program at any time after the official deadline without prior notice.
