“Our society, both locally and globally, is facing multiple and complex challenges. This requires us to work in new ways and approach issues from multiple perspectives. That’s why we’ve developed a programme based on knowledge from multiple disciplines and with a broad understanding of innovation. Innovation is not only about technology, but also about new approaches and ways of working,” says Linda Stihl, Programme Director for Innovation and Societal Change.
Driving change through Innovation
Contemporary societal challenges are complex and enduring. Environmental degradation, growing inequalities, and shifting geopolitical conditions affect how innovation is developed and diffused. The programme provides students with a systemic understanding of innovation processes – from idea to implementation – and how these impact different parts of society. These skills are in demand across sectors, and graduates will be equipped to work with societal development in the public sector, private industry, civil society, or continue to doctoral studies.
The programme spans two semesters and focuses on:
- Innovation processes in different organisations – such as firms, public sector, and civil society – as well as cooperation between different actors.
- How innovations impact society – both intended and unintended effects and how impact may differ between places and societal groups.
- How innovation processes can be governed – and the opportunities and limitations for policy actors at local, regional, national and international levels.
- Methods to study and work with innovation – including practical tools to understand, follow, and promote innovation processes.
“The programme welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds, and we hope the student group will contribute with knowledge and experiences from various undergraduate studies. What will unite them is a desire to actively engage in societal change and to see innovation as a means to achieve it,” says Linda Stihl.
Interdisciplinary Teaching with Strong Research Links
The programme is built on interdisciplinary research and teaching. The teaching staff come from various academic fields and are affiliated with CIRCLE – Centre for Innovation Research at Lund University, a leading international research centre in innovation studies. Students will also engage in collaborations with organisations outside the university and work practically with real-world challenges.
“The connection to CIRCLE means that students will meet teachers who are also active researchers in innovation studies in a broad sense, and who are used to working across disciplinary boundaries. CIRCLE also contributes with national and international collaborations both within and beyond academia,” says Linda Stihl.
Investing in Future Competence
The programme is organised by the Faculty of Social Sciences at Lund University in collaboration with CIRCLE, LTH and the School of Economics and Management. It will be taught in English and is expected to welcome 25 students starting in August 2026 at Campus Helsingborg. The programme is open to both national and international students from various educational backgrounds.
“This programme strengthens Campus Helsingborg’s profile as a place focused on pioneering and innovation, where research and education meet societal needs. Our students will be equipped to become driving forces for change,” says Charlotta Johnsson, Dean of Campus Helsingborg.
Read more about admission to the programme:
https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/lubas/i-uoh-lu-SAINS