Case study

Innovating together: forging partnerships in university education with international study modules

Project in numbers

Built in-house roadmapping expertise

120+ students

clear options were provided

400+ learning hours

 

Norwegian University of Science and Technology

At the Institute for Manufacturing (IfM), University of Cambridge, we are committed to fostering global collaboration to enhance education and drive innovation. Our longstanding partnership with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) exemplifies our dedication to this vision.

Since 2018, the IfM has partnered with NTNU to annually host and deliver an International Study Module for students on their Executive Master of Technology Management (MTM). This partnership allows us to share knowledge and leverage each other’s strengths ensuring an enriching educational experience: students leave Cambridge with a deeper understanding and tools to help them navigate the complex landscape of technology management.

 

Why the NTNU-IfM partnership?

The fruitful collaboration as part of the Master’s of Technology Management programme was initiated by forward thinking faculty at NTNU who saw value in providing their students with an international module.

The module in Cambridge at the IfM was set up to combine theory with practical insights to draw on IfM’s unique portfolio of industry relevant research that complimented and extended the NTNU curriculum. It enhances the NTNU curriculum to provide students with an exceptional academic and personal experience in a world-renowned university, and one of the leading innovation hubs in the world.

Our partnership with NTNU both expands our reach and enriches the learning experience we offer with diverse perspectives and expertise. Through this and other collaborations, we build bridges between institutions and nurture a global community of innovative thinkers and doers.

How do we complement NTNU Master’s Program?

Over a 7-day intensive period of lectures and hands-on workshops, NTNU students acquire an understanding of concepts, applied methodologies and tools developed at the IfM.

Participants are part-time postgraduate students working across different industries and sectors. As technology management is key to their professional roles, they appreciate the practical application of the content covered in the IfM Cambridge module.

During their time with us, students delve into key topics essential for navigating the complex landscape of technology management, including:

🔹 Strategic Roadmapping

🔹 Ecosystem Strategy

🔹 Business Model Innovation

🔹 Intellectual Property Management

🔹 Technology Intelligence

🔹 Innovation Ecosystems

Organised through IfM Engage’s Executive and Professional Development team, this module enriches the NTNU curriculum with theoretical components and practical tools ready to be deployed in industry.

The Cambridge experience

 

Studying in Cambridge offers more than just world-class academics—it’s an experience rooted in tradition and innovation. Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world.

The city itself is home to over 5,000 knowledge-intensive companies, forming the heart of the ‘Silicon Fen’ tech cluster, which contributes more than £15 billion annually to the UK economy. The University sits at the heart of a globally-renowned innovation and technology cluster.

Cambridge offers a unique learning environment where centuries-old colleges sit alongside cutting-edge research labs and start-up incubators.

As part of the programme experience, NTNU students typically enjoy a formal dinner at one of Cambridge’s traditional colleges, offering a taste of the city’s rich academic heritage. It’s a place where students can immerse themselves in a charming, historic setting while engaging with one of the world’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems.

Meet the IfM Faculty

Professor Tim Minshall

Tim Minshall

Dr John C Taylor Professor of Innovation and Head of the Institute for Manufacturing, University of Cambridge

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Dr Florian Urmetzer

Associate Teaching Professor, Director Ecosystems, Platforms & Strategy (EPS) Research Group, Institute for Manufacturing

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Dr Clive Kerr

Senior Research Associate, Centre for Technology Management

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Dr Rob Phaal

Rob Phaal

Director of Research (STIM, CUED), Centre for Technology Management,
Institute for Manufacturing

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Professor Frank Tietze

Professor of Innovation Engineering, Institute for Manufacturing

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Dr Letizia Mortara

 

Associate Professor at the Institute for Manufacturing

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Dr Chander Velu

University Senior Lecturer, Economics of Industrial Systems

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“For the MTM programme, this offering is a differentiator. It allows us to offer our students very engaging teaching from leading academics in an internationally unique learning environment.”

– Øyvind Bjørgum, Associate Professor at Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)

How can we help you grow your talent?

Enhance your programme through collaboration with the University of Cambridge. Bring world-class research, applied insights, and a transformative international experience to your students.

Judith Shawcross

Judith Shawcross

Head of Executive and Professional Development, IfM Engage

Contact Judith to explore partnership opportunities that inspire innovation, leadership, and global academic excellence.