Strategic Innovation Management

Strategic Innovation Management at the University of Groningen is a comprehensive master's program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation and strategic development within organizations. The course prepares graduates to understand the complexities of managing innovation processes, from idea generation to implementation, while aligning these processes with overarching corporate strategies. Students will explore various aspects of innovation management, including technological change, organizational dynamics, market analysis, and strategic decision-making. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from business, technology, and social sciences to foster innovative thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Throughout the curriculum, students engage in case studies, practical projects, and interactive learning activities to develop their ability to analyze real-world challenges and develop effective strategies for sustainable growth. The program also covers topics such as digital transformation, entrepreneurship, innovation ecosystems, and change management, providing a well-rounded perspective on how organizations can foster innovation to remain competitive in fast-changing markets. The university's strong ties with industry partners and research institutions offer students valuable networking opportunities and exposure to the latest trends and practices in strategic innovation. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to pursue careers in innovation management, consultancy, strategic planning, or entrepreneurial ventures across various sectors worldwide. The program's innovative teaching methods, combined with the university's renowned academic staff, ensure that students receive a high-quality education that balances theoretical foundations with practical application. With a focus on entrepreneurial leadership and strategic agility, the Strategic Innovation Management program aims to develop forward-thinking professionals capable of transforming ideas into real-world solutions that create sustainable value for organizations and society at large.

Strategic Innovation Management at the University of Groningen is a comprehensive master's program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to lead innovation processes within organizations. This program focuses on developing a deep understanding of how to create, evaluate, and implement innovative strategies that contribute to sustainable competitive advantage. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including innovation theory, strategic management, entrepreneurship, technology management, and the social and environmental impacts of innovation. The curriculum emphasizes both the analytical and practical aspects of strategic innovation, encouraging students to apply theoretical concepts through case studies, projects, and real-world problem-solving exercises.

Throughout the program, students will learn to identify emerging trends and technologies, analyze market dynamics, and develop strategic responses to complex business challenges. They will also gain insights into managing innovative teams, fostering a culture of creativity and continuous improvement, and leveraging digital tools and data analytics for strategic decision-making. The program is designed to be highly interactive, combining lectures, group work, seminars, and industry collaborations to ensure a rich learning environment.

In addition, students are encouraged to develop their entrepreneurial mindset and innovation leadership skills, positioning themselves as future catalysts for change within organizations. The program also offers opportunities for internships and practical projects, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real business contexts. Graduates of the Strategic Innovation Management program will be well-prepared for careers in innovation management, consulting, entrepreneurship, or strategic development roles across various industries. They will emerge as strategic thinkers, capable of driving innovation initiatives and contributing to the growth and sustainability of organizations in a rapidly changing global economy.

Admission requirements

To be eligible for admission to this Master, you need to hold an academic Bachelor's or Master's degree from a research university in one of the following - or closely related - fields: Business Economics, Business Administration, Econometrics and Operations Research, Economics and Business Economics, International Business, Technology Management. To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, we will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies, and the grades that you have obtained. For more information, see: http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/abackground If you have any questions concerning admission, please contact our Admissions Office: http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/application-procedure/support/admissions-office

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) To be eligible for admission to this Master, you need to hold an academic Bachelor's or Master's degree from a research university in one of the following - or closely related - fields: Business Economics, Business Administration, Econometrics and Operations Research, Economics and Business Economics, International Business, Technology Management. To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, we will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies, and the grades that you have obtained. For more information, see: http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/abackground If you have any questions concerning admission, please contact our Admissions Office: http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/application-procedure/support/admissions-office
2. erkende verworven competenties (EVC’s) GMAT/GRE; for specific scores (and exemptions), see http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/cother
3. cijferlijst A certified grade list(s) is considered in the evaluation.
4. taaltoets cijfer TOEFL internet based (IBT): 90, IELTS Academic: 6.5; for specific scores, see: http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/blanguage

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing options for the Master's program in Strategic Innovation Management at the University of Groningen include a variety of funding opportunities designed to support both Dutch and international students. Students are encouraged to explore scholarships, grants, and loan options to finance their studies. The university offers several scholarships for international students, such as the Holland Scholarship and the student grants provided by the Dutch government. In addition, the university provides information about external funding opportunities, including Erasmus+ programs and country-specific scholarships.

Students from the European Union and EEA countries may benefit from the Dutch government’s student loan system, which offers favorable repayment terms. Non-EU/EEA students are advised to seek scholarships offered by their home countries or private organizations. Tuition fees vary depending on nationality, with EU/EEA students paying lower fees compared to international students from outside the EU/EEA. The current tuition fee for EU/EEA students is approximately €2,200 per year, whereas non-EU/EEA students pay around €12,000 per year.

The university also provides detailed information about part-time work opportunities and internships that can help students offset living expenses. The city of Groningen has a vibrant student community, and job opportunities in the local labor market are accessible to students with the appropriate permits. Furthermore, some students choose to take education loans or combine part-time work with their studies to manage overall financial needs.

Students are advised to start their funding application process early, as some scholarships and grants have competitive application procedures with deadline requirements. The university’s financial aid office offers personalized advice and assistance to prospective and current students regarding their financial planning. Overall, the university aims to make higher education in Strategic Innovation Management accessible through a combination of scholarships, government support, part-time employment, and external funding sources, ensuring that students can focus on their academic pursuits without undue financial stress.

Strategic Innovation Management at the University of Groningen is a comprehensive master's program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive innovation in various organizational contexts. This program combines concepts from strategic management, innovation studies, and entrepreneurship to prepare graduates for leadership roles in dynamic, competitive environments. Students learn to analyze the internal and external factors that influence innovation processes within organizations and develop strategic solutions to foster sustainable growth and competitive advantage. The curriculum integrates theory and practical applications, enabling students to understand innovation management from multiple perspectives, including technological, organizational, and market perspectives.

Throughout the program, students engage with case studies, project-based learning, and interactive coursework to develop critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities. They gain a solid understanding of how to manage innovation processes, develop new business models, and implement change initiatives effectively. The program often includes opportunities for internships, collaborating with industry partners and organizations to gain real-world experience. Furthermore, students explore topics such as digital transformation, open innovation, and innovative entrepreneurship, preparing them for a broad range of career paths in consulting, corporate innovation departments, startups, and public organizations. Graduates are equipped to lead innovation initiatives, formulate strategic plans for new product development, and foster innovative cultures within organizations. The program emphasizes the development of both analytical and leadership skills to enable graduates to navigate complex innovation challenges in a global environment. With a focus on sustainability and responsible management, students are encouraged to consider ethical and societal implications of innovation strategies. Overall, the Strategic Innovation Management master's program at the University of Groningen provides a rigorous and dynamic learning environment aimed at cultivating innovative thinkers capable of making a significant impact in the evolving landscape of strategic management and innovation.