System map, courtesy of Alisha Saxena, Shama Patwardhan, Lorin Anderberg, and Diane Hu.
System map, courtesy of Alisha Saxena, Shama Patwardhan, Lorin Anderberg, and Diane Hu.
Course based upon the theoretical Transition Design framework and applied exercises.
Example of an online course Miro board.
TDI is planning a new online short course based on the well-known Transition Design Seminar.
This six-week, online short course is based on the Transition Design Seminar taught at Carnegie Mellon University and is designed for individuals and small groups interested in engaging seriously with the core ideas and methods of Transition Design. Open to participants from a range of professional, academic, and community backgrounds, the course explores how to work with place-based wicked problems and catalyze systems-level change.
Each week combines readings, short lectures, and hands-on exercises that introduce foundational concepts such as systems thinking, long-term visioning, and stakeholder engagement. Participants work in teams on an applied project that anchors these concepts in a real-world context. Collaboration takes place via Zoom and Miro, with live weekly sessions and guided activities that continue between meetings.
This course is intensive and best suited for those ready to commit time and attention to a structured, fast-paced experience. Enrollment is limited to 30 people to support a high level of interaction, and the course will be offered only once every 1–2 years.
Interested individuals are invited to review a more in-depth description of the course format and provide their preference among four different options. These responses will help us shape the first cohort and ensure a strong alignment between course goals and participant expectations.
The live six-week course is 31 contact-hours and will cost approximately $4,000. A small number of reduced-fee seats will be available for individuals working in nonprofit or grassroots contexts.