The doctorate for innovators who build the future
SUTD PhDⒾ by Innovation
Application for January 2027 intake is now closed.
Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
Part-time (36 – 60 months)
Doctor of Philosophy degree under the respective academic pillar
Mastery Sprints
What are Mastery Sprints?
The Mastery Sprints are intensive learning modules designed to equip SUTD PhDⒾ by Innovation candidates with practical innovation, entrepreneurship, and commercialisation skills.
These sprints help you translate your research into real-world solutions with industry impact.
Course requirements
The three Mastery Sprints replace two elective courses (subject to pillar/cluster requirements) and complement the remaining PhD coursework, including the mandatory Professional Development (Design·AI) course.
Candidates apply the tools, methodologies, and frameworks learned through the Mastery Sprints directly to your own PhD research and innovation project.
Schedule and core content
| Term 1:
Innovation Foundations (10 days) |
Design thinking, LEAN Startup, Agile/Scrum, AI foundations I–III (RAG, vibe coding, cybersecurity, ethics), BOM construction, pitching, strategic networking, growth mindset. |
| Term 2:
Innovation Execution (5 days) |
Rapid prototyping, docker/CI-CD, patent application and IP protection, cross-border supply chain, resilience and character building. |
| Term 3:
Innovation Distribution (5 days) |
Social commerce and distribution, career strategy (STAR method), fundraising and financial modelling with AI, growth hacking and government grants. |
WHAT’S NEXT
Find out more
Frequently asked questions
Is there a specific degree that qualifies for the SUTD PhDⒾ by Innovation pathway?
Applicants with a relevant bachelor’s degree and demonstrated innovation research potential will be considered, as the pathway follows the same admission criteria as the standard SUTD PhD programme.
Is a master’s degree required?
A master’s degree is NOT mandatory. Applicants with relevant bachelor’s degree and innovation research potential are evaluated under the SUTD PhDⒾ by Innovation pathway admission requirements.
How does the PhDⒾ by Innovation pathway differ from a traditional PhD?
Both pathways lead to the same PhD qualification and require the same depth of original research. However, while a traditional PhD focuses on producing a publication-worthy dissertation that contributes new knowledge and withstands peer review, the PhDⒾ by Innovation pathway places greater emphasis on translating research into solutions that deliver real-world impact.
Instead of focusing solely on academic publication, candidates must demonstrate that their innovations have been validated by industry or the wider community, with evidence of industry adoption or market validation.
The pathway also replaces two elective PhD courses with three Mastery Sprints and requires candidates to develop an industry-validated solution and a thesis documenting their research and its impact.
Is funding available for overseas research?
Overseas fieldwork funding may be available, subject to supervisor endorsement, funding eligibility, and official University approval.
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