Activation Phase for MSc SIT program

The Activation Phase is the final stage of the MSc SIT, where learners transform research into real-world impact. This page outlines this phase purpose, structure, timeline, and thesis requirements leading to the final presentation and defence.

🧭 Overview

The Activation Phase marks the culmination of your MSc in Sustainability, Innovation & Technology (SIT) journey — a stage where your learning, mission, and skills converge into tangible, real-world impact.
You will apply your academic knowledge and research expertise to design, execute, and communicate a Master’s Thesis or Applied Project focused on sustainability, innovation, and technology.

This phase is structured around Tomorrow University’s Activation Labs, which provide interdisciplinary spaces for collaboration, mentorship, and experimentation.

⚙️ The Innovation & Technology Lab (Exclusive to MSc SIT)

The Innovation & Technology Lab, led by Prof. Dr. Jonathan Costa, is the central activation space for MSc SIT learners.
In this lab, you will conduct your final thesis or innovation project — applying academic rigour and creative problem-solving to advance sustainable technologies and systems.

You can:

• Develop your own innovation project aligned with your mission,

• Join an existing research or innovation initiative at Tomorrow University, or

• Collaborate with external partners, such as Fraunhofer AHEAD, on real-world impact projects.

Projects may explore:

• AI- or data-driven sustainability solutions

• Circular economy and responsible technology models

• Organisational innovation and transformation

• Emerging technologies for sustainable development

🎯 Purpose of the Activation Phase

• Apply the knowledge, tools, and competencies gained throughout the Elevation Phase.

• Demonstrate the ability to conduct research-driven innovation with real-world relevance.

• Deliver a thesis and presentation that reflect academic excellence, ethical awareness, and professional leadership.

• Strengthen your self-leadership, adaptability, and systems-thinking skills.

🧩 Structure & Timeline

The Activation Phase runs over four months and follows a milestone-based model:

💬 Learners schedule their presentation via Book Presentation Slot and are encouraged to share it in the Innovation Lab Slack channel to invite peers and mentors.

Please note that you have up to 5 months to complete the Activation Phase, including the thesis presentation. 

🧮 Assessment Overview

📘 Written Thesis (70%)

Your thesis showcases the full research and innovation process — from your initial mission-driven question to your findings and implications.
You’ll be assessed on:

• Research design and analytical rigor

• Application of innovation and technology principles

• Communication, structure, and societal impact

• Reflection, ethics, and professionalism

• Leadership, strategic thinking, and vision

🗣️ Final Presentation & Oral Defense (30%)

Your presentation assesses your ability to synthesize and communicate your research effectively.
You’ll demonstrate:

• Clarity and confidence in delivery

• Visual and verbal communication skills

• Ability to respond critically to questions

• Reflection on learning and impact

🎓 Expected Outcomes

By the end of the Activation Phase, you will:
✅ Deliver a research-based innovation project that bridges sustainability and technology.
✅ Submit a Master’s Thesis demonstrating academic rigor and applied relevance.
✅ Complete a Final Presentation & Oral Defense, articulating your process and insights with confidence.
✅ Strengthen your ability to lead transformative, mission-driven innovation in real-world contexts.