Aarhus University

What you'll study

This programme centres on an extended, supervised business development project carried out in collaboration with a company, public organisation or social enterprise. Teaching combines project supervision with themed coursework that supports the project work and builds core competencies in strategy, innovation and management.

• Research methods and project design – qualitative and quantitative methods for problem framing, data collection and evaluation tailored to real-world business challenges.
• Innovation and new business development – tools and frameworks for idea generation, validation, business modelling and go-to-market planning.
• Strategic management and organisational change – concepts for analysing competitive position, stakeholder interests and leading change processes in organisations.
• Project and programme management – governance, planning, risk management and agile approaches to running development initiatives.
• Commercialisation and scaling – financing, intellectual property considerations, and strategies for scaling products, services or organisational practices.
• Electives and complementary modules – depending on the pathway chosen, students may take electives in digital transformation, sustainability, entrepreneurship, or sector-specific topics.
• Capstone project – the core element is a substantial project report and deliverable produced in partnership with an external host organisation, assessed through a written thesis and oral defence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree in business, economics, management, engineering, social sciences or another related discipline. Admission looks for a strong academic record plus evidence of quantitative and analytical ability.

• Academic transcript demonstrating completion of an undergraduate degree from a recognised institution.
• Demonstrable relevant background in subjects such as business administration, economics, innovation, engineering or project work; some programmes expect prior courses in statistics or research methods.
• English language proficiency demonstrated by recognised tests or equivalent qualifications if your first language is not English.
• Supporting documents such as a CV, motivation letter describing suitability and project interests, and references; some applicants may be invited to interview.

Career prospects

Graduates typically move into roles that require both strategic insight and hands-on delivery ability. The applied nature of the programme and industry collaboration prepare students for a range of careers.

• Business developer or corporate development professional identifying and implementing growth opportunities.
• Innovation manager or new product development lead in private or public sector organisations.
• Project and programme manager overseeing complex development initiatives.
• Management consultant advising on strategy, change and innovation projects.
• Entrepreneur or founder developing and commercialising new ventures.
• Roles in public sector innovation, NGO programme development, or technology transfer offices.

Why study at Aarhus University

Aarhus University combines research-led teaching with strong connections to Danish and international industry. The Business Development Project benefits from the university’s interdisciplinary environment, access to Business and Social Sciences faculties, and established partnerships with corporates, SMEs and public organisations in the region.

• Applied, project-centred learning that lets students tackle genuine organisational challenges and produce tangible deliverables.
• Supervision by academics with expertise in strategy, innovation and project management and opportunities to draw on research groups across business, technology and social sciences.
• A pragmatic, hands-on approach to career preparation including employer networks, career services and frequent seminars with practitioners.
• International student community and teaching methods that prepare graduates for global and cross-cultural working environments.