Aalto University involved in building global design and innovation cluster in Shanghai

Shanghai, which is the largest and most developed city in China, has ambitions to become a global centre for design and innovation. Aalto University is closely involved in this project. Aalto University's strategic partner, Tongji University, is establishing the Shanghai International College of Design and Innovation (Shanghai D&I), which will draw on the strength of both sides in the design innovation area.

This completely new type of design college is part of China's university reform. China has been investing heavily in education for many years now. The country has a clear target: to make the transition from global industrial subcontractor to a new industrial country built on a creative and sustainable foundation. Shanghai is not only the largest city in the country but also one of its most important centres of education and research. As a result, closer cooperation with Tongji offers Aalto the opportunity to position itself at the very heart of international design and innovation education.

The close cooperation will also open up new and attractive mobility opportunities for Aalto staff and students.

Among other things, Tongji is looking for Aalto University to provide practical input as it renews entrance exams to ensure that the most creative students are selected for admission. Four  master-level programs from Aalto, Collaborative and Industrial Design, International Design Business Management, Creative Sustainability and one bachelor-level, multidisciplinary Aaltonaut  will participate in the education collaboration.

The close cooperation will also open up new and attractive mobility opportunities for Aalto staff and students.

Further information:

Hannu Seristö
Vice President, Aalto University
Tel. +358 50 383 2478

Photo:Jiang Ping / Tongji University