Curtin’s first Innovation graduate proves the value of thinking differently

Curtin University has celebrated a major milestone with the first person to complete its Bachelor of Innovation degree graduating on the weekend.

Bachelor of Innovation graduate Matthew Grundy said he was drawn to the degree because it offered the chance to tackle real-world projects, work with people from different backgrounds and explore emerging technologies and business models.

The 27-year-old completed the course ahead of the standard three-year timeframe by undertaking additional study during holiday periods and taking extra units.

“What attracted me to the Innovation degree was that it was different. Rather than focusing on a single discipline, it encouraged students to think across industries, solve problems creatively and adapt to change,” Mr Grundy said.

“These skills are becoming increasingly important as industries continue to evolve and organisations look for people who can think critically, identify opportunities and navigate uncertainty.”

Curtin Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said Mr Grundy’s achievement reflected the University’s commitment to preparing graduates for a rapidly changing world.

“Matthew’s success is a wonderful example of the curiosity, adaptability and entrepreneurial thinking Curtin aims to foster in every student,” Professor Hayne said.

“As industries continue to evolve, graduates who can work across disciplines, think creatively and respond confidently to uncertainty will be essential to the future workforce.”

Mr Grundy, who juggled fulltime work in marketing while studying, said the degree had sparked a strong interest in growth, innovation and business development.

He planned to keep building his career across strategy, marketing, innovation, organisational development and business growth.

“Being the first graduate of Curtin’s Innovation degree is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Mr Grundy said.

“The degree taught me that you don’t need to have everything figured out straight away. What matters is being curious, adaptable and willing to learn.

“Innovation is often associated with technology, but one of the biggest lessons I learned is that innovation is really about people, solving problems and creating value. I believe those skills will remain important regardless of how industries change in the future.”

Bachelor of Innovation course lead Dr Mike Burbridge, from Curtin Business School, said the degree was created for a job market where career paths are changing faster than ever.

“The degree gives students the skills and knowledge to tackle complex problems, and the confidence to implement their solutions, whatever direction their career takes,” Dr Burbridge said.

For more information about Curtin’s Bachelor of Innovation, visit here.