Abu Dhabi: Khalifa University of Science and Technology (KUST) has teamed up with Arizona State University (ASU) to launch the UAE’s first dual Master of Science (MS) program, focused on entrepreneurship and innovation in higher education.
This unique program allows students to earn two degrees: a Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from ASU’s W. P. Carey School of Business and Herberger Institute of Design and Arts, and a Master of Science in Engineering Systems and Management with a concentration in Technology Management, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship from Khalifa University.
The program will be supported by Khalifa University’s business and investment arm, Khalifa University Enterprises Company (KUEC), and the Khalifa Innovation Center (KIC).
Both entities will assist students interested in launching startups after completing the Dual Degree Program, focusing on the commercialization of Scientific Research.
Dr. Bayan Sharif, Provost at Khalifa University, emphasized that the program aligns with the UAE’s vision of a knowledge-based economy by nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship among students.
The program will offer an immersive international experience, including a pitching competition for investors, and equip students with skills to convert their academic research into global businesses that contribute to the UAE’s economic development.
Hitendra Chaturvedi, co-director of the MS in Entrepreneurship and Innovation program at ASU, pointed out ASU’s decade-long ranking as No. 1 in innovation, stressing that the partnership with Khalifa University is a perfect fit to teach students the entrepreneurial mindset needed to thrive in today’s world.
The program will allow Khalifa University faculty and students, along with staff from KIC and KUEC, to network with their counterparts at ASU.
This will facilitate knowledge transfer in areas like investor pitching and developing the entrepreneurial mindset, whether for launching a startup or working in a large company.
Students will spend part of their study at ASU, returning to Khalifa University for the rest of the program. Faculty from both institutions will mentor students during their project execution, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.