Management of Product Development

Management of Product Development (MPD) at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is a comprehensive master's program designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required to lead and manage innovative product development processes in a competitive global environment. This program combines advanced technical understanding with strategic and managerial competencies, enabling graduates to navigate the complexities of modern product development, from initial idea generation to market launch and beyond.

The curriculum covers core topics such as innovation management, product lifecycle management, design thinking, project management, quality assurance, and supply chain coordination. Students gain hands-on experience through practical projects, case studies, and collaboration with industry partners, fostering a deep understanding of both theoretical concepts and their application in real-world scenarios. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, drawing from engineering, business administration, and social sciences, to prepare students for leadership roles in technology-driven companies.

With a focus on sustainable development, digitalization, and user-centric design, the Management of Product Development program at KIT aims to cultivate innovative mindsets and problem-solving abilities. Graduates are equipped to work in a variety of sectors, including automotive, electronics, consumer goods, and manufacturing industries, where they can contribute to the development of innovative products and services. The program prepares students for careers as product managers, innovation managers, project leaders, or consultants, who can effectively coordinate cross-functional teams and drive successful product strategies.

The MSc Management of Product Development at KIT is characterized by its close integration with research and industry, offering students a platform for networking and continuous learning. The program is ideal for ambitious individuals seeking to enhance their technical and managerial expertise to excel in the dynamic field of product development. With a strong focus on practical application and strategic thinking, graduates leave equipped to shape the future of innovative product solutions and contribute meaningfully to technological advancement and economic growth.

Educational organisation

The Master's program is offered at the HECTOR School, Technology Business School of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). It is especially designed for engineering professionals who have already worked in their jobs for approx. three years. It is designed as a part-time program over a duration of about 20 months and concludes with a Master of Science awarded by the KIT.
The academic calendar for all Master's programs of the HECTOR School starting in October each year consists of 10 intensive modules, each with a duration of 10 days. At the end, the Master's program concludes with a Master's thesis.

Forms of assessment

Written and oral exams at the end of each module and Master's thesis and colloquium after completion of the modules.

Course objectives

Participants of the Master's program Management of Product Development (MPD) are able to analyse, design, operate, and implement the product development process in their companies in an optimised way by means of acquired research- and application-oriented methods and processes.
Based on an integrated approach to product creation processes, graduates can successfully implement innovative ideas and innovation into competitive products, while they put a special focus on major criteria like customised product solutions and reduction of production costs as well as optimisation of quality standards. Furthermore, they are capable of accompanying and furthering innovation processes by means of creative techniques.
Finally, due to the increasing performance and competition pressure in product development, graduates can counteract shorter development times and product life cycles with appropriate methods and techniques. Join us to acquire the tools that will guide your career path in this exciting field of innovation.

Language requirements

English language test (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS) for non-native speakers (TOEFL score of at least 95 iBT)

Academic requirements

University qualification:
Bachelor's, Master's, German Diploma ("Diplom"), etc. (university, university of applied sciences, cooperative state university)
Exception: other degrees may be accepted (e.g., professional experience)

Professional experience:
Depending on the level of the first degree (210 or 180 ECTS points)

• One or two years of practical experience in the specific field of the course is required.
• Three years of work experience are recommended.
• References are needed as evidence.

English qualification:
Evidence of an adequate knowledge of the English language is required, normally in the form of a TOEFL (at least 95 iBT) or an equal qualification that must be checked individually.

For further details, please see:

https://www.hectorschool.kit.edu/admissions_msc.php

Enrollment fees

The tuition fee for the entire M.Sc. Program is 30.000 € (thirty thousand EUR). Please note that this fee is tax-deductible.

Arrival support

The HECTOR School office offers support to international participants regarding e.g., arrival procedures, visa requirements, etc.

Services and support for international students

The HECTOR School office takes care of international participants during their stay in Germany, also offering a wide range of social and cultural events, workshops, etc.

Accommodation

The HECTOR School is integrated into the campus of the International Department of the KIT with its own campus accommodation, which is available to all students of the International Department upon request.
For further information, see the campus website: www.hectorschool.kit.edu/accommodation.php