The world of social innovation will become your arena for challenges. From the very first days of your studies, you will create solutions that transform society, work on real projects, address social challenges, and develop innovative initiatives.

This program offers the opportunity to contribute to social change in collaboration with non-governmental organizations, the public sector, and international institutions. Throughout your studies, you will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to help develop sustainable social solutions.

Programme structure:

The Social Innovation and Research program offers a comprehensive structure designed to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for driving sustainable social change.

In the first semester, students delve into key topics such as Theory of Change, Ethics, Social Sustainable Development, and Corporate Social Responsibility, while also exploring Social Research Methods and participating in the first Social Innovation Lab.

The curriculum continues in the second semester with modules on Emerging Technologies and Their Management, Future Trend Forecasting, and Social Innovation Design, alongside hands-on experience in the Social Research Lab and the second Social Innovation Lab. The third semester emphasizes practical applications with courses in Social Project Management and Communication, Social Innovation Impact, and Data Analysis Lab, culminating in a Research Project and the third Social Innovation Lab. The final semester is dedicated to the Master’s Final Project, where students consolidate their learning into a significant piece of work, paving the way for impactful contributions to society.

Throughout the program, ECIU Micro-modules provide additional opportunities to expand knowledge and skills.

Key Features:

• Developing and implementing social innovations based on advanced insights from social and humanities sciences to address pressing societal and organizational challenges.
• Applying interdisciplinary knowledge and methods to analyze social phenomena and create innovative solutions tailored to contemporary societal issues.
• Designing and managing social projects and programs aimed at achieving sustainable and long-term social benefits.
• Analyzing and interpreting social processes while considering diverse cultural, ethical, and economic contexts.
• Working effectively in teams and taking leadership roles in creating and implementing social research projects, utilizing creativity and innovation.
• Critically evaluating and effectively communicating the results of social innovations and research to diverse audiences.

The Social Innovation and Research program offers the opportunity to create change in society, analyze social processes, and address current issues. Interdisciplinary knowledge, practical experience, and research provide students with unique competencies essential for modern organizations and the chance to become leaders in the field of social innovation.

In addition, at Kaunas University of Technology, there is an opportunity to continue sociology studies at the doctoral level. KTU offers research opportunities in sociology, focused on contemporary social issues, innovation, and the impact of technology on society. Doctoral students can participate in international research projects and develop an academic career.

Career opportunities:

The graduate can work in consulting-expert, managerial, leadership, and scientific-research roles at national, central, regional, and local level institutions, as well as international organizations. They can be employed in businesses and third-sector organizations providing social services, in public and community organizations, and educational and research institutions. They can also be active as an analyst and participant in social policy processes:

1. Social Innovation Developer. A Social Innovation Developer focuses on creating and putting into action new ideas and projects that tackle pressing social issues. Their work involves collaborating with a variety of stakeholders—from local communities to government bodies and businesses—to develop solutions that improve quality of life and promote long-term positive change in society. Their role is crucial in driving meaningful transformation in areas like education, healthcare, and social inclusion.
2. Social Research Analyst. Social Research Analysts specialize in gathering and analyzing data to understand societal trends and issues. They provide insights that help shape public policies, guide social innovations, and improve social programs. By using a mix of quantitative and qualitative research methods, they offer evidence-based recommendations to organizations and governments, ensuring that decisions are informed by solid research and reflect the needs of society.
3. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Specialist. A CSR Specialist helps organizations and governments integrate social responsibility into their operations. They work to ensure that businesses and public institutions not only focus on profitability but also contribute positively to society and the environment. By guiding companies in developing sustainable and impactful initiatives, they help create value for communities, foster ethical business practices, and promote long-term social change.