Design Thinking is how creative problem-solvers tackle real, messy challenges.
At Lehigh, the Baker Institute helps students bring Design Thinking to life through workshops, classes, and co-curricular experiences. Whether you're working on a class project, exploring entrepreneurship, or just want to think differently, we make Design Thinking accessible, practical, and energizing.
This human-centered, action-driven approach to innovation is used by teams at Apple, Google, nonprofits, startups, and beyond to build solutions that actually work.
The process moves through five key stages:
Empathize → Define → Ideate → Prototype → Test
No matter your major or career goals, Design Thinking gives you the mindset and tools to move ideas forward — fast.
What is Design Thinking?
Options to Explore Design Thinking
The Hatchery is Lehigh’s summer Student Idea Accelerator — and one of the best ways to explore Design Thinking in action. This hands-on, high-energy summer program introduces you to the full Design Thinking process.
You’ll learn how to approach complex problems creatively, build real solutions, and work in teams to make meaningful progress — fast. Whether you’re just starting to explore innovation or already thinking like an entrepreneur, The Hatchery gives you the tools, mindset, and support to take your ideas further.
ENGR 089: Introduction to Design Thinking for Innovation
This 3-credit course is your launchpad into creative problem-solving. You'll explore:
- The full Design Thinking process
- Tools and techniques for ideation and prototyping
- How to challenge assumptions and reframe problems
- How to pitch and communicate your ideas clearly
It's open to all majors and all class years -- with no prerequisites. Whether you're into engineering, business, arts, or the humanities, this course will expand how you think and create.
Learn by doing. Grow by testing. Solve problems that matter.
Looking to energize your team or student org? Let's build something together.
The Baker Institute offers customizable Design Thinking workshops for student groups, departments, or anyone looking to boost their creative problem-solving.
We'll help your group:
- Reframe challenges in new ways
- Develop shared language and tools
- Practice working through the Design Thinking process -- fast
Workshops can be delivered in nearly any time frame, and we'll tailor the content to match your audience.
Design Thinking Without Borders
Lehigh University is now part of the Global Design Thinking Alliance—one of only four U.S. higher ed institutions to be accepted.
