Why you should study a master’s in innovation policy | Top Universities
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Why you should study a master’s in innovation policy

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Craig OCallaghan

Updated Jan 15, 2025
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Sponsored by LSE  

A master’s degree in innovation policy equips individuals with the tools to navigate and shape the complex landscape of today’s business and policy environment.  

To learn more about why pursuing a master’s in innovation policy could be a gateway to a transformative career, we spoke to LSE about their comprehensive and world-leading MSc in Innovation Policy. 

Why innovation policy matters

Innovation drives economic growth, fosters competitiveness, and addresses pressing global challenges, from climate change to public health. However, innovation can’t occur in isolation and needs a supportive policy environment that promotes research and development and incentivises collaboration.  

Studying innovation policy allows you to delve into the mechanisms that govern these processes and to influence how innovation is nurtured and implemented.  

What to expect when studying innovation policy 

The MSc programme at LSE provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to explore innovation policy across different economic and geographical settings.  

By engaging with the latest empirical evidence and case studies, students gain insights into how innovation policy functions in both developed and developing economies. This global perspective ensures graduates are equipped to address challenges in varied contexts, whether they aim to influence policy in high-tech hubs or foster innovation in emerging markets. 

One of the programme’s key strengths is its faculty. Students learn from leading academics, industry practitioners, and policymakers who bring a wealth of real-world experience and cutting-edge research to the classroom.  

This dynamic mix of expertise ensures that students are not only grounded in theoretical frameworks but also exposed to the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping innovation policy today. 

Putting theory into practice while you study 

Unlike traditional academic programmes, the MSc in Innovation Policy at LSE emphasises practical application. Students engage in hands-on projects and case studies, allowing you to bridge the gap between theory and practice, implementing viable solutions in real-world scenarios.  

Contextual learning like this enables you to explore how innovation unfolds in different environments, giving you the necessary grounding for a wide range of careers and policy roles. 

Honing your research skills  

The programme’s dissertation component offers students the chance to conduct independent, impactful research into innovation policy.  

Whether analysing the effectiveness of government incentives for green technology or assessing the role of intellectual property rights in fostering innovation, students develop critical research competencies that are highly valued in both academia and industry.   

Careers in innovation policy  

Graduates of the MSc in Innovation Policy are well-positioned for a wide range of careers. The programme prepares students to work in government agencies, international organisations, think tanks, and private sector roles focused on innovation and strategy.  

Whether you aspire to design national innovation policies, guide corporate R&D strategies, or contribute to global policy initiatives, this degree opens doors to impactful and dynamic career paths.   

Moreover, LSE’s global reputation and extensive alumni network provide graduates with unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and collaboration. Employers recognise the value of an LSE education, particularly in fields like innovation policy where analytical rigour, practical skills and a global perspective are essential.