Innovation, Leadership and Engineering Entrepreneurship
The Bachelor of Science in Innovation, Leadership and Engineering Entrepreneurship is a four year interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in engineering, business, and entrepreneurial leadership. The curriculum emphasizes innovation, strategic thinking, problem solving, and applied project experience, enabling students to identify opportunities, develop solutions, and manage projects across technological and business contexts. Through lectures, workshops, and hands on projects, students gain skills in engineering design, product development, business strategy, and leadership, preparing them to lead teams and launch innovative ventures in a variety of industries.
Students gain extensive experience in entrepreneurship, project management, engineering analysis, and innovation strategy, strengthening critical thinking, creative problem solving, team collaboration, and professional communication. The program combines core courses in engineering principles, business fundamentals, and leadership with electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as technology commercialization, product design, startup management, or innovation strategy. By integrating theoretical knowledge with applied experiences, graduates acquire the skills necessary to pursue careers in entrepreneurship, engineering management, product development, or continue into graduate studies in business, innovation, or engineering disciplines.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Innovation, Leadership and Engineering Entrepreneurship
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Entrepreneurship
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Innovation and Engineering
- Introduction to Engineering Entrepreneurship
- Engineering Principles and Design
- Academic Writing and Research Skills
- Fundamentals of Business and Leadership
Year 2 - Core Studies in Innovation and Leadership
- Product Development and Prototyping
- Innovation Strategy and Management
- Engineering Economics and Decision Making
- Elective Courses in Business or Technology
Year 3 - Advanced Topics & Applied Projects
- Technology Commercialization and Startups
- Leadership in Engineering Teams
- Project Management and Systems Thinking
- Elective Courses in Specialized Innovation Areas
Year 4 - Capstone & Professional Preparation
- Senior Project in Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Advanced Seminar in Engineering Leadership
- Internship / Industry Placement
- Career Preparation and Professional Skills
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in entrepreneurship, innovation management, engineering leadership, and technology development. They often work as product managers, innovation consultants, entrepreneurial engineers, startup founders, and technology strategists, applying technical knowledge, leadership skills, and business acumen to develop new products and services. Many graduates continue their studies in engineering, business administration, innovation management, or related fields, leveraging their expertise to launch startups, lead innovative projects, and drive technological advancement. The combination of hands on project experience, leadership training, and analytical skills ensures graduates are fully equipped to succeed in professional environments focused on innovation, business development, and engineering solutions.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a comprehensive interdisciplinary education that blends engineering, business, and entrepreneurial leadership. It emphasizes innovation, strategic thinking, applied project experience, and professional development, preparing students to launch startups, manage engineering teams, and develop innovative solutions across industries. Students engage in design projects, business planning exercises, leadership workshops, and internships, gaining practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. The four year curriculum allows in depth exploration of product development, innovation strategy, entrepreneurship, and leadership principles, ensuring graduates are fully prepared to contribute meaningfully to technological advancement, business innovation, and entrepreneurial initiatives in professional, industrial, and global contexts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
