This directed studies topics module/studio is intended to support first year Master of Design students working on self-directed projects and contribute to early stage development of their graduate studies thesis prior to Advancement Review. The course will support students designing for research or professional leadership contexts. Within the course, students may work on interdisciplinary industry and research-sponsored projects, or personal projects that consider how design can explore and address social based concerns, and take on innovative material practice challenges. A focus will be placed on developing: skills, design research methodologies, salient community engagement. The course will provide a forum for critical design-focused conversations, guest critiques, and collaboration amongst interdisciplinary students working on related projects. Students in this course will be expected to be self-directed and will begin by establishing their own project and specific learning objectives within the course.