Learn more about Texas McCombs’ MSTC program, the application process, program affordability, and more.
About the program
What is the Texas McCombs MSTC program?
The Master of Science in Technology Commercialization (MSTC) is a one‑year, cohort‑based graduate business program at The University of Texas at Austin that teaches professionals how to turn new technologies into market‑ready products, startups, and innovation initiatives.
Is MSTC a technical or engineering degree?
No. The Master’s in Technology Commercialization (MSTC) is a business degree focused on commercialization and innovation, making it a great program for individuals from any educational or career background. Students should have basic comfort with technology, but the program does not require experience with coding or engineering or an undergraduate degree in engineering or computer science.
Do I need a background in technology to apply for the MSTC program?
No, experience working in tech is not required. MSTC is designed for professionals from a range of industries who want to lead at the intersection of business, innovation, and technology commercialization.
Who is the MSTC program designed for?
The Master of Science in Technology Commercialization (MSTC) is designed for startup founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking the skills needed to lead transformative innovation within their organizations.
What is technology commercialization?
Technology commercialization is the process of bringing a newly developed technological innovation to the marketplace. After the idea for a new product or service is developed, the first stage of the commercialization process is evaluating the idea’s market potential. The next steps include creating a business plan, securing investment funding, and marketing the product.
McCombs’ MSTC curriculum is designed to guide students through the technology commercialization process from idea generation and market validation to market launch. The learnings are applicable to independent entrepreneurs hoping to launch new startups as well as corporate innovators looking to bring new technologies to their existing organization.
What is corporate innovation, and how does the MSTC program support it?
Corporate innovation is the process by which established organizations create new products, services, business models, or operational improvements to stay competitive and drive growth. It combines strategic thinking, technology assessment, and market-focused execution to turn ideas into measurable business value.
MSTC supports corporate innovation by teaching professionals how to evaluate emerging technologies, build commercialization and go-to-market strategies, and lead new venture or product initiatives inside their organizations. Previous MSTC program graduates have received tuition support from their employers to participate in the program in order to support corporate innovation in their existing roles.
How is the MSTC degree program different from an MBA or MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) or an MS in Engineering?
MSTC focuses specifically on technology commercialization, entrepreneurship, and innovation leadership, rather than broad general management (MBA), data science and analytics (MSBA), or engineering and coding.
In addition, the MSTC is a part‑time, alternating‑weekend format for working professionals, while other master’s programs generally have a full-time weekday schedule (with the exception of the MSBA for working professionals, which offers a hybrid learning format, with most learning and interaction happening online and some on-campus visits required over the course of the program).
What degree will I earn, and is it accredited and STEM‑designated?
Graduates earn a Master of Science in Technology Commercialization from UT Austin. The program is AACSB‑accredited and STEM‑designated, which can be beneficial for certain visa and career paths.
How is the MSTC program structured?
MSTC runs over three consecutive semesters, starting in the summer. Students move through a lockstep curriculum of twelve required courses, beginning with an orientation and in‑person Launch Week in Austin, and continuing with alternating‑weekend classes designed for working professionals.
Can I transfer credits or take classes out of sequence?
No. Because MSTC is a highly collaborative, cohort‑based program, all students take the same required courses together over the full 12 months.
How is technology used in MSTC classes?
Classes are held in McCombs’ high‑tech facilities and via live video conferencing. Students use laptops for simulations, group work, and online collaboration as they learn to commercialize technology‑enabled products and ventures.
How much time should I expect to spend on coursework?
Because MSTC compresses 30 graduate credit hours into one year, the workload is intensive. Most students devote several hours each weekday plus substantial time on weekends to readings, projects, and team assignments.
When do MSTC classes meet?
Classes meet on alternating weeks, typically Thursday evening, Friday evening, and Saturday (morning and afternoon), starting in June and ending the following May. There are also three intensive in‑person weeks at key points in the curriculum, including a week long international trip. Check the MSTC academic calendar for the latest schedule.
What careers do MSTC graduates pursue, and what are typical salaries?
MSTC alumni work in roles such as Product Manager, Innovation Lead, Technology Transfer Specialist, Startup Founder, CTO, and Strategy Executive across startups, established tech firms, research organizations, and established companies in a wide range of industries. Reported total compensation typically ranges from around $130K to $320K+ depending on role, seniority, and equity; many alumni see promotions and expanded responsibilities soon after completing the degree.
Is MSTC available online? Can I complete it 100% online?
MSTC offers live online instruction via video conferencing, but it is not fully online. All students must attend two in‑person intensive weeks in Austin plus a required international trip (three in‑person weeks in total).
Are MSTC info sessions and events available online?
Yes. MSTC information sessions are live‑streamed, and the team is happy to schedule one‑on‑one Zoom conversations for prospective students. Visit our program page for more information on scheduling an appointment.
Is lodging included for Launch Week and other residential sessions?
Yes. The program provides lodging and most meals during Launch Week, Fall Intensive Week, and the required international trip. Students receive single rooms for Austin stays. International accommodations are shared unless a single‑room upgrade is purchased.
Is there a CIP code for the MSTC program?
Yes. The CIP code is 30.7102.
Application Process
When does MSTC start, and when should I apply?
The MSTC cohort starts each summer and typically graduates the following May. Prospective students should review the current application deadlines and recommended timelines on the MSTC Application Processpage.
How do I apply, and what are the requirements?
All applications are submitted online through the MSTC Application Portal. Required materials, including transcripts, test scores (if applicable), resume, essays, and recommendations, are listed in detail on the Application Processpage.
Are there prerequisite courses or required work experience?
There are no specific business prerequisite courses, and applicants may apply with limited full‑time work experience. However, most MSTC students have at least several years of professional experience, and many have 10+ years.
How are application fees and waivers handled?
Application fees are set and processed by UT’s Office of Graduate Admissions. Their websiteexplains current fees and how to request fee waivers based on eligibility.
Can I defer my admission?
Yes. Admitted students who pay their enrollment deposit may request a one‑year deferral. After one year, a new application is required.
How is my application reviewed?
The Graduate Admissions office processes your transcripts, test scores, and citizenship/visa information. The MSTC admissions committee then conducts a holistic review of your complete application and issues a decision. You should monitor both the university status page and the MSTC status link.
Is there a minimum GPA, GMAT, or GRE score?
MSTC uses holistic review and does not have strict cutoffs. As a guideline, the committee often looks for GPAs around 3.0+ and GMAT/GRE scores in a competitive range (e.g., around 600+ GMAT or comparable GRE scores), but strong experience, essays, and recommendations can strengthen an application at any score level.
Can the GMAT/GRE requirement be waived?
Yes. Applicants may request a test waiver based on factors such as substantial professional or management experience, prior advanced degrees, strong quantitative coursework or work history, or expired qualifying scores. When you indicate a waiver request in the application, you will see a link to the MSTC Test Waiver Request Form.
Can I apply after earning an MBA? Can I do MSTC and an MBA at the same time?
You are welcome to apply to MSTC after completing an MBA. Because MSTC is an intensive one‑year program, it is not designed to be taken concurrently with an MBA.
What are the English language test requirements and waiver options?
Applicants whose native language is not English may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Minimum scores and waiver criteria (such as prior degrees in English or significant time living/working in English‑speaking countries) are listed in UT’s graduate admissions policies. MSTC follows those standards.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Is financial aid available for MSTC students?
Yes. Many students use federal or private loans to finance the MSTC degree. U.S. citizens and permanent residents should submit the FAFSA using UT Austin’s school code (003658). The MSTC Tuition & Financial Aid page explains common funding options.
Are scholarships or tuition waivers available?
The George Kozmetsky Tuition Waiveris available to eligible full‑time UT employees admitted to MSTC. Many other scholarships are offered by external organizations. Prospective students can use resources like the Sallie Mae Graduate School Scholarship Searchand other graduate scholarship databases.
To be considered for this scholarship, admitted UT employees should send a letter to the MSTC Program office at stating:
1. How The University of Texas’ technology commercialization initiatives would benefit by their earning the Texas McCombs MSTC degree.
2. How they can contribute to the strengthening institutional relationships between their organization or unit and the McCombs School of Business.
Military Applicants
Can I use GI Bill® or Hazelwood benefits for MSTC?
Hazelwood benefits do not apply directly because the program is not state‑funded, but eligible students may qualify for the Texas McCombs MSTC Military Waiver instead. Many students can use Post‑9/11 GI Bill® benefits toward MSTC tuition. For details, contact UT’s Veteran Services Office.
International Applicants
Does MSTC support F‑1 student visas and I‑20s?
Yes, eligible international students can receive an I‑20 for the MSTC program. Texas Global (the university’s international office) will guide you through the I‑20 and visa process once you are admitted.
Are there scholarships for international students?
MSTC does not offer program‑specific scholarships for international students, but some external scholarships and private or home‑country loan options may be available. The one‑year schedule also helps reduce opportunity cost.
If I hold a work visa, do I still apply as an international student?
Yes, you will typically be coded as an international student by the university. If you already have a work visa through your employer, you likely will not need additional F‑1 documentation.