Who is the Master’s Degree in Technology and Innovation Management suitable for?
The degree programme is aimed at graduates from technical, scientific or information technology fields who wish to develop management skills in the area of innovation and technology transfer. You will particularly benefit from the master’s if you aim for a leadership role in research and development, product management, management consulting or technology-oriented companies, or if you want to actively manage innovation processes. Even as a professional with experience in related fields, such as business informatics, the course offers a solid foundation for advancing into middle or senior management positions in technical organisations.
What requirements must you meet?
For admission, you need a successfully completed university degree (Bachelor or Diploma) in engineering, natural sciences, business informatics, computer science or an equivalent qualification according to the State University Act of Baden-Württemberg. If you obtained your degree abroad, you must provide proof of German language skills, for example through:
- DSH-2 (German Language Examination for University Admission),
- level C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR),
- TestDaF level 4,
- or a school leaving certificate that corresponds to a German university entrance qualification.
In addition, the following personal requirements are recommended:
- Sound knowledge of academic work, especially in writing scientific texts and documentation,
- confident use of PC and internet applications,
- English skills at level C1 (CEFR),
- strong self-organisation and self-motivation for part-time distance learning,
- interest in management topics, innovation processes and interdisciplinary teamwork.
Which topics are covered in the Master's degree in Technology and Innovation Management?
In the distance learning Master's degree in Technology and Innovation Management (M.Sc.) at AKAD University, you acquire comprehensive knowledge to design and manage technological innovations in companies. The main content focuses include:
- Technology Management and Innovation Management: Development, implementation and evaluation of new technologies in a business context
- Integrated Master Projects: Application of methods such as as-is analysis, requirements engineering as well as empirical research and statistics on practical case studies
- Business Administration Fundamentals: Cost and performance accounting, organisational and corporate development
- International Management and Intercultural Communication: Strategies for international teams and projects
- Product and Process Management for Industry 4.0: Design of digital processes and products, digitalisation in companies
- Research and Development Management: Management of R&D and innovation processes
- Digitalisation and Ethical Responsibility of Companies: Ethical issues related to technological developments
- Team Leadership and Change Management: Coordination of project and change processes in interdisciplinary teams
- Start-up Founding and Market Positioning: Steps for founding and establishing technology companies
The course offers four specialisations, of which you choose two:
- Digital B2B Marketing and Technical Sales
- Green Management
- Innovation and Technology Consulting
- International Innovation Management
At the end, you complete a Master's thesis, supplemented by a colloquium. Alongside subject expertise, you develop analytical, communicative and organisational key skills for successfully managing innovation projects.
How is the structure of distance learning at AKAD organised?
The distance learning course is fully digital and designed for maximum flexibility. You study independently at the AKAD Online Campus – without compulsory attendance –, with free scheduling and location independence. The standard study period ranges from 24 to 48 months, with three time models (Sprint, Standard, Stretch) available. A free extension of several months is included depending on the chosen time model. After starting your studies, the following digital learning materials are available to you:
- Scripts as PDF and e-book
- Explainer videos, podcasts and web-based trainings
- Virtual study groups and forums
- Live webinars, online seminars (with recordings)
- Sample exams and self-tests for exam preparation
You can take exams flexibly via online exams (open book) or submit term papers and practical assignments. The final thesis is completed independently and defended in a colloquium – usually digital. Personal support is always ensured through expert lecturers and a service team.
In which industries and positions does the qualification open up new career paths?
Graduates of the Master's degree in Technology and Innovation Management qualify for demanding positions at the intersection of technology, business and management. Typical fields of employment include:
- Technical Project Management: Planning and implementation of innovation and digitalisation projects
- Innovation Management: Development, evaluation and introduction of new products, services or processes
- Product Management: Responsibility for product life cycles and market launches in the technology sector
- Research and Development: Coordination of interdisciplinary R&D teams in industry and SMEs
- Management Consulting: Advice on strategy development and technology transfer
- Entrepreneurship: Founding and scaling of technology-oriented start-ups
- International Management Functions: Management of global innovation projects with an intercultural focus
The skills acquired during your studies are in demand across industries, such as in industry, information technology, service companies, consulting or the public sector. Advancement into leadership positions or specialisation in Green Management and digital transformation is also possible.
What tuition fees and financing options should you expect?
The total cost for the Master's distance learning course in Technology and Innovation Management at AKAD University is normally €11,976, based on a study period of 48 months with a monthly fee of €299. Alternatively, you can complete the course in a shortened time model in 24 or 36 months, with the monthly costs increasing accordingly while the total amount is lower. For all models applies:
- The tuition fees include access to the online campus, all learning materials and individual support.
- A one-time examination fee of around €960 applies; depending on discount promotions, this fee may be waived or included in the price.
- A free extension of the standard study period is possible depending on the model.
- Additional costs may occur for optional on-site events, such as graduation ceremonies or workshops.
Various financing options are available to you:
- Tax deductibility of tuition fees as work-related expenses or special expenses
- Employer funding through participation in a training budget
- Regular discount promotions by AKAD University
- Scholarships or education loans
You can test the distance learning course free of charge for 4 weeks and cancel during this time without risk.
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