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Master's inCorporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Program summary

Learn to strategically manage corporate innovation; develop new products, services, and business models for companies; and launch startups. With multiple concentrations to choose from, you can customize this online degree program to support your goals.

100% Online

Complete your Penn State course work at your own pace and 100% online.

Application deadline

Apply by April 15 to start May 13

Credits and costs

33 Credits$1,017 per credit

Nationally Recognized

US News and World Report graduate business badge
Select graduate business programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

Gain Skills to Lead Innovation and Influence Entrepreneurship

  • Understand how companies innovate and apply design thinking.

  • Launch new business ventures by applying an entrepreneurial mindset.

  • Establish corporate cultures, practices, and processes to support innovation.

  • Track and capitalize on business and technology trends for competitive advantage.

  • Lead, influence, and work effectively on product development teams.

  • Demonstrate ideation, critical thinking, problem-solving, benchmarking, and assessment.

Online Innovation and Entrepreneurship Courses and Concentrations

The 33-credit Master's in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIENT) is a customizable interdisciplinary program that allows you to earn graduate certificates while pursuing your master’s degree online.

Stand Out from Others by Customizing Your Education

Develop tightly focused, career-ready skills tailored to your personal strengths and unique goals. The CIENT online master’s program allows you to customize your learning by choosing from more than 12 concentrations. Few top-tier online programs offer this level of flexibility.  

Each concentration gives you three courses to dive deeper into a focus area.  

  • business management foundation 
  • engineering innovation foundations 
  • accounting foundations 
  • business analytics 
  • business architecture 
  • business sustainability strategy 
  • business-to-business marketing
  • diversity and inclusion as strategy 
  • general management 
  • management consulting 
  • marketing analytics 
  • negotiation and influence 
  • real estate law and valuation 
  • strategic leadership 
  • supply chain management 
  • supply chain risk management  

Core Courses (15 credits)

While working toward your degree, a Graduate Certificate in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship may be earned by completing MBADM 850 and three of the following: ENTR 502, ENTR 810, ENTR 820, or MGMT 870. Application to the certificate program is required.

  • 3
    credits

    Understanding, exploring, and applying innovation-related concepts, principles, and practices to corporate environments involved with new venture creation and other contexts.

  • 3
    credits

    This course is designed to allow students to integrate, synthesize, and apply what they have learned in prior courses, and gain further insight into two major drivers of business success, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

    • Prerequisites

      ENTR 502, ENTR 810, ENTR 820

Choose Three of the Following:

  • 3
    credits

    Surveys emerging trends and disruptors in technology and industry that create new markets and influence decision-making, product development, business models, and business practices associated with innovation.

  • 3
    credits

    Explores the methods used to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in a corporate setting, with a special emphasis on how organizations foster creativity, innovation, and new venture creation.

  • 3
    credits

    Focuses on the process of launching a new venture, in a corporate setting or as a new start-up, including identifying a problem or market opportunity, developing business models, forming a team, financing, analyzing markets, assessing the competitive environment, and planning to acquire leadership talent.

  • 3
    credits

    A comprehensive overview of the various ways to finance a company, develop valuation models, and present investment recommendations of evaluated companies utilizing the Garber Venture Capital Fund.

Primary Concentration (9 credits)

Students in the CIENT program have the flexibility to choose a concentration in either business management foundations or engineering innovation foundations.

Business Management Foundation (select 9 credits)

Elective courses for those who aspire to a more business-facing role.

  • 3
    credits

    Focuses on the development and application of business architecture as a holistic discipline that produces a common understanding of the organization that is used to align strategic objectives and tactical initiatives.

  • 3
    credits

    Emphasizes identity issues that are critical to understanding individual and collective processes in organizational life.

  • 3
    credits

    Integrating multiple functional business areas to resolve global business problems and improve organizational performance.

  • 3
    credits

    Accounting rules, practices, and applications that characterize the accounting presentations that for-profit organizations provide to the public.

  • 3
    credits

    Overview of human behavior in organizations, and implications for managing and leading individuals, teams, and organizations.

  • 3
    credits

    Application of techniques available to aid managers in sound financial decision making.

  • 3
    credits

    Examines strategic issues in marketing, including analysis, planning, and implementation; gain hands-on experience in taking control of an enterprise operation involving marketing, production, and financial decision-making at both the strategic and tactical levels.

Engineering Innovation Foundations (9 credits)

Elective courses for those who aspire to a more technical leadership role.

  • 3
    credits

    Traditional and contemporary leadership theory is analyzed to determine effective strategies for leading projects and innovation within an engineering context.

  • 3
    credits

    Explores cultural differences and impact on business practices and team dynamics working on virtual project teams with global partner universities.

  • 3
    credits

    Develop competencies for leading new product/process development or participating in corporate spinouts using entrepreneurial skills within a corporation.

Secondary Concentration (9 credits) 

The secondary concentration allows you to drill down into a specialty area to consider how the principles of corporate innovation may be applied. To ensure student success, some secondary concentrations have prerequisite course and/or work experience requirements in order to gain entrance. These requirements have been established to ensure students have the necessary foundational knowledge prior to entering the concentration. Please refer to the concentration selections below for further details.

Completion of a secondary concentration may lead to an additional graduate certificate. Some graduate certificates will require you to take an extra course outside of the 33 credits needed for the master's degree.

Accounting Foundations (select 9 credits)

If MBADM 811 is completed in the primary concentration, ACCTG 812, 813, and 814 must be completed for the secondary concentration.

  • 3
    credits

    Accounting rules, practices, and applications that characterize the accounting presentations that for-profit organizations provide to the public.

  • 3
    credits

    Introduction to U.S. federal income tax, covering the basics of taxation of individuals, corporations, flow-through entities, and property transactions.

    • Prerequisite

      MBADM 811

  • 3
    credits

    Principles of the risk-based approach to the audit of financial statements, with special focus on financial information systems.

    • Prerequisite

      MBADM 811

  • 3
    credits

    Examination of the internal organizational accounting procedures that establish accountability within organizations.

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Business Analytics (9 credits)

Because key concepts build from one course to the next, please plan to start with BAN 830, follow with 840, and finish with 550. Prerequisite includes previous work experience and/or academic background with statistics. Please contact the program for further information at [email protected].

  • 3
    credits

    Explores the use of descriptive analytics concepts, tools, and techniques throughout a wide range of business scenarios and problems.

  • 3
    credits

    Explores the use of predictive analytics tools and techniques throughout a wide range of business scenarios and problems; includes a subset of methods such as neural networks, machine learning, social media analytics, and more.

  • 3
    credits

    Development of methods for prescriptive analytics with a focus on business supply side decisions and risk mitigation.

    • Prerequisite

      BAN 840

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Business Architecture (9 credits)

Three credits for this requirement must be selected from a pre-determined list maintained by the program. Please contact the program for course options at[email protected].

  • 3
    credits

    Focuses on the development and application of business architecture as a holistic discipline that produces a common understanding of the organization that is used to align strategic objectives and tactical initiatives.

  • 3
    credits

    Explores the use and effectiveness of architectural modeling to describe an organization and examines model-based products as tools to support, influence, and enable organization planning and decision-making.

    • Prerequisite

      BA 809

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Business Sustainability Strategy (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    An overview of the economic, social, and environmental drivers of the transformation to sustainable business models and practices; identification of best practices and frameworks for assessing organizational engagement with sustainability; development of a strategic sustainability plan.

  • 3
    credits

    Addresses the managerial challenge of strategy implementation, particularly by examining the organizational elements that must be drawn into line to support a strategy, as well as the immense difficulties of changing an organization. Relies on two overarching frameworks: a model of organizational alignment and a model for managing the change process.

  • 3
    credits

    Introduction to new business models and sustainable design principles for reinventing products and services to drive business value while reducing environmental and social impact, sourcing raw materials and working effectively with suppliers to safeguard labor and human rights and protect and restore natural resources, and managing total cost and risk. Special focus on circular economy strategies and closed loop supply chains.

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Business-to-Business Marketing (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Provides an overview of how to successfully use data and analytics to evaluate target segments, brand management, product development, and pricing strategies to drive success.

  • 3
    credits

    Explores state-of-the-art insights into innovation strategy, product development processes, and new product introduction and management in B2B.

  • 3
    credits

    Focuses on B2B marketing strategy, offering a framework for value creation and delivery and introducing key concepts, theories, and strategic decision-making in business-to-business markets.

Diversity and Inclusion as Strategy (9 credits)

Three (3) credits must come from MGMT 845. Students can choose how to fulfill the remaining six (6) credits with the courses in this section. 

  • 3
    credits

    Emphasizes how leading across differences and diversity is a core leadership competency in organizations today.

  • 3
    credits

    Enhances the student's ability to deal with the complexities of ethical decision making in today's dynamic business environment by clarifying and applying personal values.

  • 2
    credits

    This course starts with the reality that the United States is less influential in global trade, finance, economics, and business than it was in previous decades.

  • 1
    credit

    Designed around a visit to another economic region. Students visit both local and multinational businesses to understand how a business gets established and run in another country; students also meet with industry and government officials to get their perspectives on the economic policies of the country.

    • Note

      Additional fee applies for travel

  • 3
    credits

    Addresses the managerial challenge of strategy implementation, particularly by examining the organizational elements that must be drawn into line to support a strategy, as well as the immense difficulties of changing an organization. Relies on two overarching frameworks: a model of organizational alignment and a model for managing the change process.

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General Management (select 9 credits)

Students pursuing the General Management concentration may select from a list of online courses in consultation with their academic adviser. For an updated list of courses, please contact [email protected].

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Management Consulting (9 credits)

Three credits for this requirements must be selected from a pre-determined list maintained by the program. Please contact the program for course options at [email protected].

  • 3
    credits

    Provides an understanding of key issues, concepts, and methodologies associated with business transformation and management consulting; helps students identify and define organization problems, highlight pain points, map workflows, explore business models, investigate strategic alignment, develop recommendations, present business cases, and deliver prototype solutions.

  • 3
    credits

    Explores the methods and tools commonly used in the practice of management consulting and is intended for students interested in working in this field or working in organizations that hire management consultants.

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Marketing Analytics (select 9 credits)

Prerequisite includes previous work experience and/or academic background in marketing fundamentals. Please contact the program for further information at [email protected].

  • 3
    credits

    Principles of applied marketing analytics, including marketing data sources, data quality, software, and fundamentals of statistics. Special focus on translating data into meaningful business insights and strategy.

  • 3
    credits

    Introduction to data analytics for evaluating digital marketing communication, including assessment of mobile, website, and online shopper experiences; evaluation of digital campaigns, social media monitoring, and media mix modeling.

  • 3
    credits

    Examination of data analytics to strategically drive targeting, acquiring, developing relationships with, and retaining customers.

    • Prerequisite

      MKTG 811

  • 3
    credits

    Review of analytics addressing key marketing challenges, including brand positioning and differentiation, pricing and product strategy, brand equity, and customer satisfaction.

    • Prerequisite

      MKTG 811

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Negotiation and Influence (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Delivers an overview of the difference between traditional (distributive) bargaining and interest-based (or integrative) negotiations; learn to identify their own and others' interests, to create and claim value, and to craft constructive agreements for all parties.

  • 3
    credits

    Introduces the theory and practice of negotiation in a variety of settings, with specific emphasis on multiparty context; the course will allow students to develop these skills experientially and to understand negotiation in useful analytical frameworks.

    • Prerequisite

      BA 805

  • 3
    credits

    Aims to provide students with a toolkit that will allow them to diagnose individual and organizational source of power and influence as well as an array of tactics by which power and influence are wielded.

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Real Estate Law and Valuation (9 credits)

  • 1
    credit

    Provides an overview of real estate evaluation and risk analysis, property rights and regulations, and financial real estate evaluation.

  • 2
    credits

    Covers principles, strategies, and techniques of negotiation with multiple parties involved in commercial real estate transactions, along with how to create financially viable agreements.

  • 3
    credits

    Explores economic theories of valuation applied to real estate as a guide to business decisions. Also covers understanding of real estate value, how to measure it, and its application to the real estate marketplace.

  • 3
    credits

    Analyzes contemporary law applicable to various types of ownership interests and rights, methods of transferring ownership, and use of real property. 

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Strategic Leadership (9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Presents a senior executive perspective on the key opportunities and challenges faced by business leaders; includes discussions on the changing context for setting strategy and leading organizations in an evolving business environment.

  • 3
    credits

    Emphasizes identity issues that are critical to understanding individual and collective processes in organizational life.

  • 3
    credits

    Addresses the managerial challenge of strategy implementation, particularly by examining the organizational elements that must be drawn into line to support a strategy, as well as the immense difficulties of changing an organization. Relies on two overarching frameworks: a model of organizational alignment and a model for managing the change process.

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Supply Chain Management (select 9 credits)

Three (3) credits must come from SCM 800. Students can choose how to fulfill the remaining six (6) credits with the courses in this section. 

  • 3
    credits

    Introduction to the core concepts of the strategic supply chain management framework, including process orientation, a systems viewpoint, intra-frim coordination, and extended enterprise collaboration.

  • 3
    credits

    Performance metrics used in supply chain management, both within the enterprise and across the extended enterprise.

    • Prerequisite or concurrent

      SCM 800

  • 3
    credits

    Selecting, evaluating, and determining the nature of relationships with suppliers from the buyer's perspective within the context of industry and market knowledge. Additionally, understanding ethical conduct in business organizations.

    • Prerequisite

      SCM 800

  • 3
    credits

    Best principles and practices for production management as well as tools and models for demand forecasting and inventory management, particularly as it relates to the fulfillment of demand for finished goods.

    • Prerequisite

      SCM 800

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Supply Chain Risk Management (select 9 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Studies foundations of cybersecurity and the threats it aims to prevent.

  • 3
    credits

    This course examines the fundamental elements of crisis, disaster, risk, and emergency management.

    IST 803 should be taken prior to IST 564.

  • 3
    credits

    Introduction to the core concepts of the strategic supply chain management framework, including process orientation, a systems viewpoint, intra-frim coordination, and extended enterprise collaboration.

  • 3
    credits

    Explores how to identify, assess, and implement strategies and tactics for managing supply chain risk by building and maintaining resiliency in the supply chain.

    • Prerequisite

      SCM 800

Elective courses and/or concentrations may change or be added to address evolving trends in the industry, current student feedback, and/or fluctuations in demand. For the most updated list of approved electives, please contact our program office directly at [email protected].

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Optional Global Immersion Experience

This learning experience is designed to enhance your ability to communicate cross-culturally, adapt to evolving business environments, and manage some of the key risks and benefits of operating on a global scale. The Global Immersion trip may include visits to corporate headquarters and manufacturing facilities, as well as meetings with executives and government officials to learn about international business from those experiencing it firsthand in the country you are visiting.

The Global Immersion trip and corresponding course(s) will be offered each spring. Please note that course work is required both before and after the trip. Online students may pursue the Global Immersion experience/courses in one of two ways:

  • Option 1: Take BA 836 for 1 credit in a spring semester. The 1-credit course will include the trip and associated pre/post-work. BA 836 would be an additional credit on top of the 33 required to graduate.
  • Option 2: Take BA 836 for 1 credit AND BA 835 for 2 credits during spring semester. Together, the 3 credits will involve more extensive course work in this subject area and will include the trip. The 3 combined credits for BA 835 and 836 may replace one 3-credit program elective course with approval. Please contact the program office with any questions.

We aim to have enough students across programs to allow students to choose from 3–4 locations each spring. Past trips for the full-time and executive students have included Johannesburg, South Africa; Shanghai, China; Prague, Czech Republic; and Santiago, Chile. The trip choices will be made by the program faculty directors based on global business climate and corporate and alumni relationships that will allow for the most fruitful experience. Please contact the program office for more details, including fee structure, upcoming dates, and locations. Please note that students pay course tuition as well as an additional trip fee to participate in the Global Immersion experience.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Advance Your Career

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You can use the knowledge gained from this program and the support of Penn State career resources to pursue careers in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.


Job Titles Related to This Degree

The following roles are often held by people with this type of degree:

  • Business Development Director
  • Business Development Manager
  • Chief Innovation Officer
  • Product Development Director
  • Research and Development Director

Employment Outlook for Occupational Fields Related to This Degree

Estimates of employment growth and total employment are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and are subject to change. While these occupations are often pursued by graduates with this degree, individual outcomes may vary depending on a variety of factors. Penn State World Campus cannot guarantee employment in a given occupation.

Architectural and Engineering Managers

4.1%
employment growth (10 years)
197,180
total employment

Natural Sciences Managers

4.8%
employment growth (10 years)
82,570
total employment

Chief Executives

-8.2%
employment growth (10 years)
199,240
total employment

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

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Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State master's degree?

Apply by April 15 to start May 13. How to Apply 

Costs and Financial Aid

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2023–24 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2023, spring 2024, and summer 2024 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,017 per credit
12 or more$12,203 per semester

2024–25 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2024, spring 2025, and summer 2025 semesters.

How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,027 per credit
12 or more$12,325 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Penn State Smeal Advantage

This is a photography of the Business Building at Penn State.

Smeal College of Business is committed to being your partner in lifelong learning. Smeal offers programs, support, and resources for every career stage and life circumstance that will prepare you not only for your next great opportunity but also for the one after that.

More options, greater flexibility, and a commitment to lifelong learning

The desire for knowledge and professional growth spans a lifetime. That is why the Penn State Smeal College of Business offers a portfolio of professional graduate programs for all stages of your career. In partnership with Penn State World Campus, Smeal makes it easy to customize a learning plan to your unique career aspirations and busy schedule. Penn State Smeal offers you a lifetime of learning with more concentrations and one of the most integrated, flexible offerings of online and residential programs in the United States.

Penn State Business building

An entire team dedicated to your success

Personal advising — Our experts will explain the many options that Penn State Smeal offers and will help you refine your career strategy and craft the educational experience best suited to your interests. It all starts with a simple, but critical question: “What are your goals?” 

Career coaching* — Our Alumni Career Services team will support you across all career stages with professional advancement opportunities and coaching to help you stay focused on achieving your goals.

Delivering the best of online and in-person learning for a rich educational experience

We understand that today’s professional learners want meaningful discussion and interaction with faculty and classmates along with the technologies and flexible approaches of contemporary online learning. By aligning the best of both worlds, we bring richness, depth, and diversity to the overall educational experience.

Courses designed to engage and motivate the professional student

Creative Teams consisting of a lead faculty member, a Teaching Support Specialist (TSS), and an Instructional Designer use advanced analytics to develop and deliver contemporary graduate courses that promote application and engagement. We strive to innovate in ways that others don’t. 

A real-world perspective

  • Industry professionals inside the virtual classroom — Many of Penn State Smeal’s courses feature industry professionals who have been in the trenches and work hard to make an impact every day. These individuals, most of whom hold a Smeal graduate degree, partner with our renowned faculty to provide a rich academic context with real-world application.
  • Global immersion* — This unique, optional experience will enhance your ability to communicate cross-culturally, adapt to evolving business environments, and manage the risks and benefits of operating on a global scale. Any student pursing a full degree from Smeal may participate in this optional, faculty-led experience for elective credit. Previous destinations have included Shanghai, China; Johannesburg, South Africa; Prague, Czech Republic; Santiago, Chile; and Zagreb, Croatia.

One of the largest and most influential networks in the country

At Penn State, you are part of a worldwide community of instructors, learners, and more than 750,000 alumni who support one another and make a meaningful impact. 

More than 90,000 Smeal alumni benefit from connections around the globe as well as networking events, podcasts, webinars, a powerful LinkedIn community, and opportunities for volunteerism.

Impact Smeal Day — This day provides alumni and professional graduate students with the opportunity to come to campus and interact with current students, network with other alumni, gain professional insights, and hear about college initiatives. The day is designed so that you can sign up for the sessions that work for your schedule.

* Services are available only to students and alumni of Penn State Smeal’s degree programs and online degrees led by Smeal and delivered through the World Campus. Students and alumni of online graduate certificates are not eligible to receive these benefits unless they are also enrolled in a degree program.

Earn an Additional Credential

A figure walking on a path that includes a certificate part of the way through their progress

Show mastery of specific subjects before your degree is complete. Thanks to shared courses across programs, students can complete a graduate certificate or second master’s degree concurrently in less time than if they pursue them separately.

Programs Related to This Degree

Maximize your ROI by earning multiple credentials along the way to your master’s degree. To learn more about Graduate School guidelines and schedules, contact an adviser by emailing [email protected].

Gain a broad understanding of principles and practices in areas such as financial and managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing. This program is designed for college graduates with little to no background in accounting.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Accounting Foundations

Develop the quantitative and managerial skills needed to analyze complex data sets and support data-driven business decisions. This online program provides a practical approach to deploying analytics in the areas of marketing, supply chain management, operations, and risk management.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics

Gain the expertise to align your organization's higher-level strategic objectives with tactical enterprise-level projects and technology initiatives to improve overall effectiveness and efficiency. This program is recognized by the Business Architecture Guild.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Business Architecture

Build a strong foundation across a wide range of business disciplines, including management, accounting, finance, leadership, and marketing. This interdisciplinary certificate is ideal for graduate professionals who desire more formal business training or education.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Business Management Foundations

Learn sustainable business practices that can drive environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance while improving profitability, reducing cost and risk, and building competitive advantage. Prepare to develop and implement a sustainability strategy for any type of organization.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Business Sustainability Strategy

Prepare for a rewarding career in B2B marketing in this 9-credit, online business-to-business marketing graduate certificate. You can gain an understanding of essentials including value creation and delivery, B2B marketing strategy, marketing analytics, new product development, and more.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Business-to-Business Marketing

Build the business, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills needed to develop groundbreaking products and services and manage high-performance teams. This online program is ideal for entrepreneurial-minded, creative thinkers who want to understand the principles of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Develop the in-demand leadership skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage diversity and inclusion as strategic imperatives, as well as the competencies needed to lead diversity-related change initiatives.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion as Strategy

Supplement your technical engineering skills with courses focused on communication, ethics, entrepreneurial thinking, and professionalism. This online certificate program was designed for working engineering professionals who want to prepare for leadership positions.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Engineering Leadership and Innovation Management

Gain the knowledge and skills required to succeed as an independent management consultant, member of a consulting firm, or in-house advisor in a corporate or public sector setting with this online graduate certificate program in management consulting.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Management Consulting

Gain the core knowledge necessary to make data-driven marketing decisions. This online certificate program is ideal for marketing professionals and market researchers who wish to become more data-savvy and use digital analytics to strategically support a business.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Marketing Analytics

Acquire the skills you need to gain support for your ideas, influence the outcome of negotiations, and successfully implement your solutions. This program can help you learn to identify personal interests and gives you the opportunity to practice strategies though multi-party negotiation scenarios.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Negotiation and Influence

Prepare to succeed in a variety of positions related to the competitive and rewarding commercial real estate market. In this online program, finance, business, and legal professionals can further specialize their skills and/or practice to find success working in the growing commercial real estate industry.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Real Estate Law and Valuation

Explore the challenges that managers face when implementing corporate strategy and learn to shape organizational cultures that facilitate change with this online graduate certificate program in strategic leadership.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Strategic Leadership

Gain the skills you need to maximize the efficiency of your organization’s supply chain. This online program can help you learn to develop supply chain solutions as you gain an understanding of how companies use networks to acquire, produce, and deliver goods and services domestically and worldwide.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Supply Chain Management

Learn to create a more secure supply chain using industry-proven strategies for managing interruptions as well as tactics for mitigating risks.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Supply Chain Risk Management

Who Should Apply?

This entrepreneurship program is designed for students who are experienced business professionals intent on expanding their skills for leading innovation at an existing organization or launching new ventures.

Some of our online learners in the master’s degree program already have their own business and others are looking to become successful entrepreneurs. You will have many opportunities to work in teams and collaborate on projects with the potential to initiate and transform business.

AACSB Accredited

This program is AACSB Accredited

The Penn State Smeal College of Business is AACSB accredited, an honor reserved for the top 5% of business schools worldwide. This program is competitively priced compared to other AACSB–accredited programs.

A Capstone Project that is Relevant and Meaningful to You

The capstone course for this degree focuses on entrepreneurial business planning and strategy execution. This capstone experience allows students to integrate, synthesize, and apply what they have learned while working on a project of individual interest.

You may choose to write a real-world business plan, develop a business case for pursuing a new product or business venture, or assess how to align a company’s business strategy to future trends in the marketplace. A sampling of final project topics may inspire you: 

  • procurement process enhancement business case 
  • business plan for a unique wellness center 
  • strategic alignment of an insurance company to promote innovation 
  • enhancing front-end innovation to enhance corporate safety 
  • next-generation quality assurance practices 
  • using innovation to detect chemical threats 
  • business plan for a unique management consulting firm 
  • innovations in digital entertainment streaming 
  • transitioning to loan banking-as-a-service 
  • business plan for launching executive training in corporate innovation 
  • creation of a business innovation platform utilizing artificial intelligence

Global Immersion Program Opportunity

You will have the opportunity to participate in an optional global immersion trip. For one week, join fellow Penn Staters from the Smeal College of Business to visit a pivotal global business region to develop a critical awareness of international business practices and diverse cultures.

Set Your Own Pace

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Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Our online courses typically follow a 12- to 15-week semester cycle, and there are three semesters per year (spring, summer, and fall). The majority of students finish the program in 20–28 months.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

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Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

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Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

How to Apply to Penn State

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Apply by April 15 to start May 13

Application Instructions

Deadlines and Important Dates

Complete your application and submit all required materials by the appropriate deadline. Your deadline will depend on the semester you plan to start your courses.

  • Summer Deadline

    Apply by April 15 to start May 13
  • Fall Deadline

    Apply by July 20 to start August 26
  • Spring Deadline

    Apply by November 15 to start January 13

Space is limited, and you are encouraged to apply early. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all seats are filled.

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    Applicants likewise should have completed about three years of post-undergraduate, professional work experience. Managerial or team leadership experience is preferred, but not required. Less experienced candidates will be considered at the discretion of the program director.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE/GMAT scores are not required and will not be accepted.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

    Program-Specific Questions/Materials

    Vita or Résumé — A listing of your professional experience and education

    Statement of Purpose — A 2–3 page essay articulating career and educational goals

    Additional Information — May be requested by the program

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Degree Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

    Technical Requirements  
    Review the technical requirements for this degree program. 

  5. 5. Complete the application.

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Applicants who are in the military qualify for an application fee waiver. Please contact the program office at [email protected] to request the military waiver code.

Contact Us

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Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

To learn more about the Master's in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIENT), please contact:

Penn State Smeal College of Business
Professional Graduate Programs Office
Phone: 814-865-5290
[email protected]

For general questions about the application process, please contact:

World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]

Learn from the Best

The Master's in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship is offered in partnership with the Penn State Smeal College of Business.

Faculty

  • Shawn Clark

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Business Administration, Penn State
    • Degree
      Master of Organizational Behavior, Brigham Young University
    • Degree
      B.S., Brigham Young University

    Dr. Shawn Clark is director of the Farrell Center for Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship and a clinical professor of innovation and entrepreneurship in the Smeal College of Business. He teaches courses in corporate innovation, entrepreneurship, business planning, strategic management, enterprise modeling, project management, and business transformation consulting. His research focuses on business architecture modeling, corporate innovation, global prescience, enterprise transparency, and the strategic alignment of business and information technology.

  • Raghu Garud

    Degree
    Ph. D., Strategic Management and Organization, University of Minnesota

    Raghu Garud is the Farrell Chair in Innovation and Entrepreneurship and a professor of management and organization at Penn State. His research explores the emergence and adoption of novelty. Raghu was recognized by the Technology and Innovation Management Division of the Academy of Management as its distinguished scholar for 2020. In addition to many journal articles, Raghu has co-edited or co-authored several books.  

    He has served on the faculty at the Stern School of Business at New York University. Raghu also has been a Fellow of the Sydney Sussex College, the University of Cambridge, a visiting scholar at VU Amsterdam, the Copenhagen Business School, the University of Bologna, the University of St. Gallen, The Indian School of Business, and the Singapore Management University.

  • Jeanette Miller

    • Degree
      DBA, Business Administration, Georgia State University
    • Degree
      M.A., International Business (International Relations), Webster University
    • Degree
      B.A., Economics, University of Texas at Austin

    Dr. Jeanette Miller is associate director of the Farrell Center for Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship and an assistant clinical professor of entrepreneurship in the Smeal College of Business. She teaches courses in new venture creation, entrepreneurship, and managing startups. Her research focuses on social impact, student entrepreneurship, and measurement of impact investing on startups.

News


Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State master's degree?

Apply by April 15 to start May 13. How to Apply