New for the winter semester: Entrepreneurship & Innovation supplementary course of study

It started in the 2021/2022 winter semester, the new "Entrepreneurship & Innovation" supplementary programme, offered by the Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation.

It is open to all students at the University of Bayreuth, and in scope represents 30 (ECTS) credit points, corresponding to the standard study period of 4 semesters. The application deadline for the current semester is 18 November 2021.

In addition to a basic module (6 LP) in the form of the course "Principles of Entrepreneurship" and a project module (6 LP) to extend, expand, and apply the basic competencies acquired, there are a variety of modules in the so-called elective area (18 LP) to further explore special aspects of the area of entrepreneurship & innovation.

After successful completion, graduates receive a graded final certificate confirming the competencies acquired in the field of entrepreneurship, foundation, and innovation skills.

Why is the University of Bayreuth exactly the right place for this programme?
Prof. Baum: The University of Bayreuth acts as a central driver of innovation in the region and provides the all-important free space for creative thinking and personal development for its students. With the Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, which was founded last year, the University of Bayreuth makes it possible to fulfil these central guiding principles even more forcefully and efficiently. Through the synergetic combination of entrepreneurship research, teaching, and transfer of knowledge that takes place here, students can build up core competencies to develop and implement innovative ideas, allowing them to develop personally and make their mark in the Upper Franconia region.

For whom is the supplementary programme most worthwhile to complete the additional studies and what skills are taught?
The supplementary programme gives students from all disciplines a comprehensive insight into start-up and innovation topics. Through the division into a basic, advanced, and in-depth area, students not only acquire specific specialised knowledge - e.g. What is a business model? How can it be structured? - but they can also directly apply and extend the skills they have acquired in real-world (start-up) projects. Since the supplementary course of study imparts diverse knowledge and methodological competencies that are relevant in different professional contexts, the programme is definitely worthwhile for students of all disciplines. Innovation thrives on interdisciplinarity, which is why we would like to encourage all students to opt for this supplementary programme.

What prerequisites are there for students - for example, a concrete start-up idea? Or can you enrol without a business plan already worked out?
For the supplementary course of study, students only need to be enrolled and provide proof of B2 level English language proficiency. A concrete start-up idea or an existing business plan is not a prerequisite for admission. During the supplementary programme, students acquire the necessary skills to develop independently, and to test and implement business ideas. As part of the programme, we also offer the unique opportunity to complete the start-up semester of the University of Bayreuth during the supplementary course of study, and to have this accredited. Here, everyone is constantly advised and actively supported by experienced coaches and our start-up advisory service.

To what extent does the supplementary course of study equip you for your personal career?
Ultimately, we train students in entrepreneurship to become problem solvers and "opportunity developers" - two fundamental aspects of many future-oriented and responsible professions. The skills and knowledge acquired are relevant key competencies for numerous career paths students can enter. Regardless of whether students wish to set up a company themselves or work as a manager in an existing company, the competencies taught in the supplementary programme are universally applicable and highly relevant. Our application-oriented courses also refine important personal skills such as proactivity, project management, as well as teamwork.

Until when can you enrol for the 2021/22 winter semester? And are there English-only tracks?
Students can still enrol for the supplementary course of study in the 2021/22 winter semester until 18 November. In general, the enrolment deadline for each semester is 4 weeks after the start of the semester. Currently, there is no separate, purely English track. However, some of our courses are primarily offered in English. We are always happy to welcome international students and make it possible to integrate them into our supplementary programme.