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FAQs
What are the benefits of the Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Management for Life Scientists?
Doing groundbreaking science is one thing. Making a business venture from your innovations is something else entirely. If you want to learn about the business of science, the program will teach you how to protect your IP, think creatively about marketing your developments, and manage your finances. You'll learn from faculty members who have navigated the regulatory waters, and you'll meet leading entrepreneurs in the biotech industry. You'll enhance your professional skill set, giving you a competitive advantage against others in your chosen field.
What is a Certificate? Do I get academic credit for this program?
The Certificate is intended to give you the skills that you need to succeed in the biotech industry. The courses are specifically designed for busy graduate students and young professionals — the work is challenging, but is not intended to replace the academic rigor of a full-time Master's program. We encourage you to list the certificate on your résumé or CV; however the certificate is not listed on your official Illinois transcript.
What are the educational requirements for admission?
If you have completed a bachelor's degree, you can be considered for the program. We have reserved spaces specifically for Illinois graduate students and post-doctoral researchers, but biotechnology professionals are welcome to apply. The program is specifically designed for those with a background in the life sciences.
Do I have to take each of the modules? I'm only interested in learning about the FDA approval process.
Each module is priced separately, so you can take only the modules that interest you. However, we believe that life scientists who will be running labs — either in industry or in academia — will benefit from each of the modules. An understanding of the interrelationships of the functional areas of business and how they apply to life sciences industries sets you apart from the vast majority of other research scientists.
Who are the CEM faculty?
CEM instructors are nationally recognized leaders in their fields. Experts in law, business, and the life sciences, along with guest speakers in various biotechnology ventures, teach each of the modules.
What are the course requirements?
Be prepared to be involved in your own learning. Each course involves lecture and discussion, with plenty of time for questions and answers. You'll have homework, too, and you'll be expected to contribute to group projects and general discussions.
How will I pay for the program?
Thanks to our corporate sponsors, we are able to offer scholarships for the program. If you are working in the biotech industry, you should also check with your employer to regarding tuition benefits.
Can I pay in installments?
Typically, no, but we can work with individuals for whom full payment would be problematic.
How many hours, on average, will I need to focus on each module? As I also have a lot of wet lab research work, I need to estimate whether I can finish each module.
The CEM program is intensive, but it is also specifically designed for life scientists. We understand that your time is at a premium, which is why you will do the bulk of your learning during the Friday night and Saturday sessions. Depending on the module, there will be 12 to 18 hours of classroom instruction.
Is the CEM program offered annually?
Yes. The 2009-2010 CEM program begins with orientation on October 9th 2009.
Do I need reference letters from my advisor or my boss?
No. When you apply, we are particularly interested in learning about your ideas and your plans for future business ventures, so we encourage you to give careful thought to your interest statement. We do, however, encourage you to talk with your advisor about participating in the program.
