A new generation of strategic designers will be trained in Russia.

The Central University is launching a design school with an experimental Human Experience Design (HX-design — designing human experience) program aimed at training strategic designers of a new generation. This was announced by the rector of the university Evgeny Ivashkevich.

"We are convinced that this area, along with development, machine learning and business analytics, will become key for training specialists of the future - those who will be able not only to create innovations, but also to make them truly human—centered," Ivashkevich emphasized.

The program is designed for two years and is based on the principle of interdisciplinarity — students will study design at the interface with technology, humanities and management. Unlike traditional design programs, the HX approach involves working not only with visual solutions, but also with designing meanings, scenarios of human interaction with technologies and social systems.

Students will be able to choose one of two profiles — product design or communication and graphic design. The curriculum includes work with cultural, social, and behavioral contexts, critical rethinking of the role of design, systemic product vision, and user experience design.

The new school will be taught by practicing industry experts. Special attention will be paid to the development of leadership competencies and practical exercises. Graduates will be able to apply for positions of lead designers, art directors and design strategists. Applications will be accepted until August 28, 2025, and training will start in September.

Central University is a Russian university that implements a STEM approach (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in higher education. The University was established in partnership with more than 50 major Russian companies and organizations.