Graduate Program Director's Message

Hi Everyone,
 
As the SAPL Graduate Program Director, responsible for the Master of Design Research (MDR) program, I want to share my excitement about the growing importance of research in the design professions, particularly within larger firms. Research is not an option in design; it’s increasingly central to how design professionals operate and innovate. This shift began with evidence-based design in healthcare and has now expanded to encompass critical areas such as sustainability, circular economies, community co-design, and design justice. Research is now a critical extension of professional practice.

In this evolving landscape, the MDR degree stands out as a key credential for future leaders and innovators in design. Graduates of the MDR program are uniquely positioned to access higher-level roles and leadership positions more quickly than traditional designers. As research skills become progressively valued, especially in areas that contribute to social and environmental sustainability, our graduates are well-positioned to meet the demands of sophisticated design professionals.

SAPL faculty members are internationally recognized academics, professionals and researchers, able to provide expert, and excellent, research mentorship. Our MDR students participate in impactful, meaningful research. They present their work at international conferences and publish in internationally recognized journals. Their work impacts communities. Indeed, our strong partnerships with key firms provide students with opportunities to lead in design research, enhancing their expertise and developing crucial professional and industry networks.

Moreover, the MDR program serves as an excellent steppingstone to further academic pursuits, such as a PhD, academia, or innovative entrepreneurial ventures. The skills and knowledge you acquire during this program will empower you to tackle "wicked problem” design challenges that drive innovation.

As schools position themselves as providers of design research capabilities, the MDR degree offers a distinct market advantage. We are committed to ensuring that the MDR program empowers students to thrive as expert design research professionals, preparing our students for success in rapidly evolving and dynamic design arenas.

I invite you to explore the MDR program further and discover how it can help you become a leader in the design profession. Together, we can shape the future of design research and its impact on society.

Best regards,

Prof. Barry Wylant
Graduate Program Director

Prof. Barry Wylant
Graduate Program Director & Associate Professor
School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape
University of Calgary