New Course Gets Science Into Business

Arcata - The HSU School of Business and its Institute for Entrepreneurship Education will offer a one unit course in the fall of 2009, “Business for Scientists,” an introductory overview of business skills designed for both professional and personal use.
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The workshop-style class explains “the fine line between failing and succeeding” and dismantles the cultural myths that falsely divide the worlds of business and science. Students receive training in planning (personal planning transitioning to business planning), marketing, financing, communication, small group presentation skills and legal requirements (licenses and intellectual property).

“Business for Scientists” also covers tax issues, various forms of insurance and the ins and outs of commercial leases, among other subjects.

Dr. Nancy Vizenor, who teaches the course, says, “Regardless of a student’s career path, a background in business and entrepreneurial education is a big help because it relates to all aspects of life, personal, practical and professional. Many scientists have to write grants, operate labs, manage multi-million dollar budgets and run large-scale clinical trials. This workshop helps our student scientists bridge the divide between academia and their careers in the workday world.”

“Business for Scientists” and the Institute for Entrepreneurship Education are designed to reach other academic departments on campus, as well as the Redwood Coast business community. Both the class and the institute are tailored for interdisciplinary study and applications. The institute also focuses on “social entrepreneurship,” instilling instruction with an ethic of social responsibility.

Information and details are available from Dr. Vizenor at 707/826-6021 and ncv2@humboldt.edu.