Professional Science Masters degrees gaining national interest

Traditional science graduate degrees are usually narrow and focused on research, and traditional MBAs often possess little or no background in science. The “PSM” is seen as the perfect combination for managers who need to function in an increasingly competitive, high-tech and scientific-based business world, and in just a few years it has evolved from a curiosity to a national trend, educators say.

“This is really an exciting time for this educational concept,” said Ursula Bechert, vice president of the National Professional Science Master’s Association and director of off-campus programs for the College of Science at Oregon State University. “Graduates with this degree are increasing their employability and easily finding jobs. Both California and New York now have system-wide initiatives to develop more PSM programs. Leaders from across Oregon are meeting this week to learn more.

Read the entire media release here: Professional Science Masters degrees gaining national interest

Marrying Science and Business

Prior to say, 1997, when such programs came into existence, scientists may have been on their own finding themselves rising a corporate or non-profit ladder and making all kinds of business-type decisions. Similarly, business-minded folks may have felt out of their element working in a science-oriented industry. OSU has a solution to this conundrum in the The OSU Professional Science Masters Degree Program. (PDF document)

The program was featured in OSU This Week on April 3rd:

PSM students currently enroll in one of four tracks: applied biotechnology, environmental sciences, applied physics and applied systematics in botany. In addition to completing two years of coursework in their scientific discipline, students receive 19 credits of professional training in business management, communications, and research ethics, and they complete an internship in a business or government agency.

http://oregonstate.edu/dept/ncs/otw/backissues/2007-2008/april03.pdf