How You Learn
The Master of Digital Product Management program includes two in-person sessions at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. The rest of the experience is delivered through SmithOne, our digital learning platform delivering tailored course content, dynamic feedback, networking, and on-demand support.
The launch in-person session features cross-program learning and networking with students in other Smith Innovation Suite programs. MDPM students will join with Masters of Management Innovation & Entrepreneurship students.
A dynamic virtual learning experience
Smith School of Business is at the forefront of delivering business education in dynamic and engaging virtual formats. With state-of-the-art technology—including a dedicated, interactive teaching studio and proprietary SmithOne virtual learning platform - we have been enabling virtual learning for thousands of students for more than a decade.
The SmithOne virtual learning platform allows students to experience active and accessible learning through approaches that include (but are not limited to) easy online access, visual collaboration, active networking, and seamless connection to tools and frameworks.
Leadership Development & Team-based Learning
Reflecting the way organizations manage product-based organization, the MDPM program adopts a hybrid (agile and traditional) approach to project management and assigns formal product team roles to demonstrate the impact of situational leadership. This innovative approach to learning enhances understanding of group and cultural dynamics, builds self-awareness and effectiveness, and develops understanding of how product teams perform best.
In both physical and virtual contexts, the 8-month practicum is used to build and strengthen work-ready project management and leadership skills.
A dedicated, professional Team Coach is assigned to every program team. Throughout the year, they will monitor your team’s effectiveness and provide regular feedback and guidance that is pivotal to the learning process. Teams will also be provided with proven processes and best practices for enhancing team performance and overcoming any obstacles that may arise during the year.
Peer-to-Peer Learning
Formal product roles are also used to enable peer-to-peer learning in the MDPM program. Not only will students learn from faculty, but they will also learn from peers who come into the program with a range of subject matter expertise. As students learn from their peers, the MDPM program can accommodate incoming students from a wider range of disciplines.
The peer-to-peer learning model also enables students entering the program with a specific subject-matter expertise to become deeper experts.
“The best product managers are able to think strategically about business and market direction, while holding technical credibility on details with engineering and development teams. Investing in developing product managers into cross-functional leaders is important, since it's unusual for individuals to inherently have these broad skill sets and experience.”
Vice President, Strategic Growth & Data
Cineplex Digital Media
“The program’s team coaching model, which I highly valued, provided practical skills in building and managing high-performing teams, a crucial element for agile management. The student experience is outstanding. From day one, it’s clear that the faculty and staff genuinely care about each student’s journey. They’ve built an environment that’s not only educational but incredibly supportive. Their commitment to the program and the pride they take in building something meaningful are palpable.”
Senior, Finance Optimization
Ernst & Young