On this course, you will experiment both theoretically and practically. Students produce essays and articles and undertake self-directed research. You will manage risk, encounter uncertainty and deal with failure without inhibiting creativity. In group-based projects, you will develop an understanding of what is needed to foster innovation in organisations in times of uncertainty of opportunity. These skills will be valuable for working in public and third sector organisations, as well as in commercial organisations of all sizes including consulting firms. Studying MA Innovation Management, you need to be open to the thoughts and experiences of others and ready to manage difference and diversity respectfully and honestly.
Unit 1: Exploration and Experimentation
Through a series of group projects and taught sessions, Unit 1 will introduce you to a variety of research methodologies and innovation frameworks. You will explore the different practices and discourses of innovation management as well as creative teamwork. This unit will allow you to experiment, take informed risks and learn from failure. You will also be introduced to group working as a first step to productive collaboration.
Unit 2: Mapping and Positioning
Unit 2 is a natural extension to Unit 1 and is devised to bring out your individual interests and concerns. You will orientate yourself in the field of innovation management through a focus on mapping and positioning. The projects in this unit contain a range of teaching and learning activities, with submissions that include individual written work and team presentations. You will also embark on a self-initiated piece of work (Situated Inquiry: Placements and Field Surveys) to support your own field of enquiry.
Unit 3: Independence and Cooperation
Unit 3 invites students to distil their learning journeys into two high-standard journal articles that together comprise their masters dissertations. Students will also work together as a year group to organise, manage and deliver a series of end-of-year events. These will include the Degree Show and a symposium or conference. Students will also be expected to produce any supporting material necessary in communicating these.
All course units integrate personal and professional development, enabling students to explore the professional world and manage your career development.
Mode of study
MA Innovation Management is offered in extended full-time mode which runs for 60 weeks over two academic years. You will be expected to commit 30 hours per week to study, which includes teaching time and independent study.
The course has been designed in this way to enable you to pursue studies, while also undertaking part-time employment, internships or care responsibilities.
Credit and award requirements
The course is credit-rated at 180 credits.
On successfully completing the course, you will gain a Master of Arts (MA degree).
Under the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, an MA is Level 7. All units must be passed in order to achieve the MA but the classification of the award is derived from the mark for the final unit only.
If you are unable to continue on the course, a Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) will normally be offered following the successful completion of 60 credits, or a Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) following the successful completion of 120 credits.