English 
Deutsch Who is the Master’s Programme in Innovation Design Management Suitable For?
The Master's programme in Innovation Design Management is aimed at applicants with a university degree in design, business, or a technical discipline who wish to position themselves at the intersection of creative design, strategic management, and innovation development. The programme is suitable both for graduates of design-related fields (e.g. product design, communication design, architecture) as well as for business economists and engineers who want to learn about and utilise the transformative power of design methods on organisations, products, and brands. The target group includes, in addition to career starters, young professionals seeking an interface role between creative teams and corporate management or aiming to take on new business development, innovation management, or strategic brand leadership. The course is particularly designed for interdisciplinary and international teams.
What Formal Admission Requirements Apply?
For admission, you need a first completed university degree (Bachelor, Diploma, or equivalent) in a design-, business- or technology-related subject. Proof of this must be submitted with the application. Additionally, the following documents must be provided:
- Fully completed online application
- University degree certificate (at least Bachelor level)
- Proof of sufficient English skills (language of instruction is English)
- CV and copy of passport
- Motivation letter with answers to four specific IDM questions
Applicants with a design or art background must also submit a portfolio with up to 8 work samples. For applicants from business or technology fields, the portfolio is not required. Professional experience is recommended but not mandatory for admission.
You should have an interest in interdisciplinary collaboration, creative problem-solving processes, and linking design with business management issues. Analytical thinking, teamwork skills, communication strength, as well as a pronounced strategic understanding are required. Openness to change processes, creativity, and entrepreneurial thinking support success in the programme. English skills of at least B2 level are expected to follow the lessons without difficulties.
What focus areas does the Master's programme in Innovation Design Management have?
In the Master's programme Innovation Design Management, you learn how to use design and innovative ways of thinking deliberately as drivers for business strategy and act at the interface between business, technology and design. The programme provides you with in-depth knowledge in innovation strategy, portfolio management and organisational development to find sustainable solutions in fast-moving markets. Important content focus areas and acquired skills include:
- Linking design, business and technology: Integration of creative approaches into business processes and strategic decision-making.
- Innovation management & entrepreneurship: Development and management of innovation projects, optionally with a focus on design or entrepreneurial reorientation.
- Strategic brand management: Building, managing and positioning brands in the context of global markets.
- Portfolio management: Analysis and management of entire product and service portfolios.
- Practice-oriented project work: Intensive work on real projects in cooperation with industry partners – from concept development to market launch.
- Human centred design and sustainable customer benefit: Designing innovations with measurable value for users and companies.
Among other things, you train problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, creativity, leadership skills and entrepreneurial action. Teamwork, communication skills and strategic planning are accorded high importance.
How is the Innovation Design Management Master's programme structured?
The course is offered as a full-time on-campus programme at the Potsdam campus. It lasts 4 semesters and leads to a Master of Arts (M.A.) with 120 ECTS. Key facts about the structure:
- Language of instruction: English
- Start dates: Winter and summer semesters
- Teaching times: Usually between Wednesday and Saturday
- Project-based teaching formats: Integration of intensive practical phases and teamwork with companies
- Options: Specialisations can be chosen between “Innovation by Design” (Strategic Brand Management & Atlas of Design) and “Innovation & Entrepreneurship” (Innovation Management & Atlas of Opportunity) from the first semester onwards
The learning content is worked on in small, interdisciplinary groups; many modules are project-oriented. You work with students from a wide range of disciplines and apply modern management methods in real business processes. The Innovation Hub of UE offers you access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and close contact with industry.
What career prospects arise after completing the Master’s in Innovation Design Management?
With this degree, you position yourself at the interface between design, innovation management and business. Graduates typically take on strategic and leadership roles in innovation-driven companies as well as in consulting. Fields of work and typical positions include:
- Design Development & Management
- Innovation Manager
- Management Consultant
- Strategic Brand Manager
- New Business Developer
- UX Consultant or UX Designer
- Corporate Culture Management
- Product and Innovation Manager
Thanks to the practice-oriented training and close cooperation with corporate partners, the job prospects are very good – according to UE’s internal statistics, over 90 % of graduates find employment within twelve months after graduation.
What distinguishes the location Potsdam and the organisation at the Innovation Hub?
The Master's programme Innovation Design Management takes place at the Innovation Hub of the University of Europe for Applied Sciences in the Potsdam-Golm Science Park. This location is specifically geared towards innovative study programmes and digital transformation. You benefit from:
- Direct connection to the capital Berlin and a large network of start-ups, creative industries and technology companies
- State-of-the-art laboratory equipment, including design and media labs, VR and gaming areas, photo studios and collaboration spaces
- Diverse industry contacts thanks to extensive corporate cooperations
- Inspirational learning environment: Potsdam offers a relaxed, creative atmosphere complemented by the dynamic environment of Berlin
Seminars and courses take place on campus; all project-related content is practice-oriented and closely linked to partner companies in Potsdam, Berlin and beyond.
What costs must you expect for the Master's programme Innovation Design Management and what financing options are available?
The tuition fees for the 4-semester Master’s with 120 ECTS at the Potsdam location are €820 per month, which corresponds to a total amount of €19,680 for the standard period of study. This amount includes usage of the university infrastructure and participation in practical projects.
- Individual scholarships: UE offers a variety of scholarships (e.g. BVB Scholarship, Digital Pioneers, Women-in-Tech) for different target groups and special achievements.
- Funding programmes: Opportunities for state funding such as BAföG (depending on personal eligibility) or support through education funds or student loans.
- Options for part-time jobs: Through the UE Career Service, you can receive support in finding part-time jobs and internships.
- Special conditions: Discounts for siblings or spouses as well as alumni benefits are possible.
For precise planning of your finances, it is advisable to check scholarship opportunities early and make use of the UE Career Service. The university also supports you with questions about instalment payments and individual payment arrangements.
Advisory Service
Have questions about Academic Programs Innovation Design Management? Ask your question here, even anonymously. An employee of the institution University of Europe for Applied Sciences or the editorial team will answer you.