Program Overview

Course Overview

The course GEOG3100, Social perspectives on innovation and sustainable transitions, is a second-degree level course offered at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).

Course Details

• Credits: 7.5
• Level: Second degree level
• Course Start: Autumn 2025
• Duration: 1 semester
• Language of Instruction: Norwegian
• Location: Trondheim
• Examination Arrangement: Home examination

About the Course

Course Content

The course provides an introduction to innovation as a field of research, emphasizing the evolution from classical contributions from mainly economists to today's interdisciplinary research field where sustainable transitions have become an important part of the concept of innovation. Key topics for discussion include the significance of innovation for the sustainable transformation of society and the importance of various societal conditions for innovation and sustainable transformation. Specific topics covered include renewable energy transition, mineral extraction for the green shift, circular economy, and questions regarding just green transitions. The subject also deals with various forms of innovation and the institutional organization of innovation policy in Norway.

Learning Outcome

A student who has completed this course should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills, and general competence:

• Knowledge: Has knowledge about the connections between innovation, sustainable transition, and societal development.
• Skills: Is able to critically evaluate theories and concepts related to innovation and sustainable transition.
• General Competence: Has acquired understanding of the mutual relationship between innovation and sustainability in society, and how they form the basis for restructuring processes and policy design at different geographic scales.

Learning Methods and Activities

The course includes up to 16 hours of lectures, compulsory seminars, group work, and presentations.

Compulsory Assignments

• Participation in seminars, group work, and presentations.

Further on Evaluation

The compulsory assignments must be completed and approved in order to be eligible to take the exam. The same form of examination is given when re-sitting for the exam or improving the grade. The exam is offered both in the autumn and spring semester.

Required Previous Knowledge

• Bachelor's degree.

Subject Areas

• Entrepreneurship
• Geography

Examination

Examination Arrangement

• Examination Arrangement: Home examination
• Grade: Letter grades

Ordinary Examination - Autumn 2025

• Home Examination
  • Weighting: 100/100
  • Date:
  • Release Time: 09:00
  • Submission Time: 12:00
  • Duration: 3 days
  • Exam System: Inspera Assessment

Ordinary Examination - Spring 2026

• Home Examination
  • Weighting: 100/100
  • Date:
  • Release Time: 12:00
  • Submission Time: 12:00
  • Duration: 3 days
  • Exam System: Inspera Assessment