Master

In our research-oriented master-level course “Principles of Strategy & Entrepreneurship”, we will explore core questions of strategic management and delve into the process of new venture creation. The course covers seven main areas:

1. Foundations: Tracing the origins of the strategy concept
2. Strategy & economics: Exploring the influence of economics on the notion of strategy
3. Strategy making: Understanding different perspectives on the strategy formation process
4. Competitive strategies: Learning about strategy in competitive settings
5. Cooperative strategies: Examining strategy in cooperative settings
6. Strategic entrepreneurship: Getting familiarized with strategy perspectives on new venture creation
7. Digital strategy: Delving into digital platform strategies

“Theory is the currency of our scholarly realm” (Corley & Gioia, 2011, p. 12). Despite the continued rise of ever more sophisticated methodological tools during the past years, this claim has not lost any of its validity. In this master seminar, we will explore the nature and use of theories within management and entrepreneurship research. Specifically, the course content covers four main areas: 1) Structure, types, and occurrence of theory; 2) Theoretical puzzles and contributions; 3) Anatomy of theoretical arguments; and 4) Creativity and theory construction. Together, these four areas will provide participants not only with a thorough understanding of what theory is (and what it is not), but also with hands-on guidance on how to effectively use theory in their master theses and potential doctoral dissertations.

The master-level course “Strategic Innovation Management” offers participants a holistic guideline through the process of innovation management. The course content spans topics such as strategy development, the creation of innovation-focused firm cultures and leadership, and the expansion into global markets. In addition, we will explore concrete innovation strategies related to open innovation and (digital) platforms. 

After completion of this course, participants should be in a position to understand and apply key concepts of strategy and innovation management. These competences prepare participants not only for future research-related work (e.g., Master theses, Ph.D.), but also for career opportunities in innovation departments, new ventures, and consulting.

“Theory is the currency of our scholarly realm” (Corley & Gioia, 2011, p. 12). Despite the continued rise of ever more sophisticated methodological tools during the past years, this claim has not lost any of its validity. In this master seminar, we will explore the nature and use of theories within management and entrepreneurship research. Specifically, the course content covers four main areas: 1) Structure, types, and occurrence of theory; 2) Theoretical puzzles and contributions; 3) Anatomy of theoretical arguments; and 4) Creativity and theory construction. Together, these four areas will provide participants not only with a thorough understanding of what theory is (and what it is not), but also with hands-on guidance on how to effectively use theory in their master theses and potential doctoral dissertations.