Master in Innovation

Understanding today's challenges, undertaking changes for tomorrow

Innovation drives social and economic changes that build our common future. The Master in innovation is an interdisciplinary program supported by the Faculties of Law, Economics and Humanities. It blends theory and practice with the aim to equip students with the necessary skillset to understand, conceptualize, and for some, to manage innovation that creates value in society. Participants will engage with courses, case studies and practical exercises to understand the social and global challenges which innovation seeks to address. With its three orientations, the program is open to students with different backgrounds.

The Master's graduates may use their skills within companies, organizations or administrations to promote, stimulate and support economic and social change.

The University is located in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, a place where innovation thrives. Surrounded by the stunning Swiss Alps, this picturesque town is the perfect setting to study the cutting-edge field of innovation. With a long tradition of world-class watchmaking and high-tech industries, Neuchatel is the ideal location to immerse yourself in a culture of creativity and ingenuity.

• Further information on the Master in innovation website (in French) :
  www.unine.ch/innovation

Three specializations :

Career opportunities

• Company legal advisor
• Business incubators
• Project management
• Innovation management
• Independent consultant
• Cantonal an federal public sector  jobs

Skills acquired and objectives

This cross-disciplinary Master’s programme develops tools and basic theories in R&D and innovation, enhancing students’ understanding of current issues. On graduating, students will understand the socio-economic, political, legal and technological contexts in which innovations emerge and develop. They will be able to apply and develop these skills in both private and public sectors, as well as advise companies on innovation processes, management, organization and protection. These skills are valued not only by companies in which innovation plays a central role, but also by more traditional companies facing innovative competition.

This Master’s degree leads to employment opportunities not only in the private sector, but also in public service, be it cantonal or federal, as well as in the parapublic sector (business incubators, etc). The legal specialization enables graduates to work as legal counsel. The humanities and economic specializations open the door to employment opportunities like innovation project leader, consultant or developer (project manager, innovation manager, independent consultant).

Course structure

The curriculum will comprise of a refresher courses for students from all faculties and a common core syllabus, completed by three specializations:

• Innovation and society and cours optionnels (in french)
• Innovation law and cours optionnels (in french)
• Management (in french)

The final components of the curriculum are cross-disciplinary options in different faculties, and the choice between a Master’s thesis and a work placement.