In this context, ‘practical’ does not mean simply carrying out predefined tasks for companies, but taking on entrepreneurial responsibility. You develop your own ideas, test assumptions under real-world market conditions, and make decisions that impact business models, resources and growth.

During your studies, you work interactively: hypotheses are tested, concepts adapted and solutions refined – often with direct feedback from the start-up and innovation community. Instead of simulations, real projects emerge that can be continued, financed or launched.

In doing so, you combine scientific methods with entrepreneurial action. You learn to structure uncertainty, systematically evaluate opportunities and not only plan innovation, but also implement it. This fosters a practical understanding that prepares you for roles requiring creativity, responsibility and initiative.

Innovation rarely happens in isolation. That is why the degree programme is closely integrated into an active innovation and start-up network that supports you throughout your studies and provides you with real-world access to practical experience, funding and collaboration opportunities. You won’t be working on ideas in isolation, but will engage with founders, companies, funding bodies and partner organisations – building contacts early on that will continue to benefit you long after you’ve graduated.

This network is supported by key partners and venues that actively facilitate innovation and start-ups in Kemnath, the programme’s location.

These include, amongst others: