Time commitment

This module is designed to provide an efficient introduction to practical business concepts and tools. The total time commitment for this module is about 4-5 hours/week, including in-class meetings and out-of-class readings.

For the first half of the module (January 13-February 24), the module will consist of interactive didactic sessions.  Each didactic session will require 1-2 hours of reading to be completed before class. 

There will be a 1/2 day, on-campus retreat the afternoon of Monday, February 29. There will be speakers as well as time for participants to form groups and meet with the Core Facilities to discuss projects.

For the second part of the module (March 16 – April 11), participants will break into small groups and complete a project in consultation with the director of a VU Core Facility. The module will continue to meet Wednesdays from 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. during this time, for short didactic lectures on problem solving and project management, and for teams to work on their project in class. Individual teams may also need to meet outside of class to work on their project or visit their core facility. Each person is required to contribute to the team project and participate in the final presentations. 

All module participants will receive a Certificate of Completion at the end.

Attendance policy

Because the course is interactive and team-based, and this is a limited enrollment opportunity, course participants need to attend all sessions and participate fully. This includes attending the 1/2 day retreat, completing reading assignments outside of class, and contributing to the team-based project. Participants should discuss time away from the lab with their research advisor in advance of the course. Anticipated absences, such as for scientific conferences, should be discussed with the course director.