Q: Who can participate in the Fellows program?

The Business Development Fellows program is open only to UC Davis graduate students and postdocs. We generally accept doctoral students, post-coursework. Masters students are admitted conditionally, based on their coursework load.

The program is open to science and engineering graduate students and postdocs.

Q. How do you select participants?

Acceptance is based on your application, letter of support from your advisor and your interview. We are looking for candidates who are motivated to learn outside their lab and develop new skills and method of thinking about their research.

Q: Where does the Fellows program take place?

The courses are held at Gallagher Hall, Graduate School of Management.

Q: How much does the Fellows program cost?

Through the support of the Graduate School of Management, accepted BD Fellows attend the program at no cost.

Q: What are the courses?

Fellows participate in four (4) Graduate School of Management courses, throughout the year. The class schedule changes year to year but an overview includes:

• Management of Innovation
• Business Development Clinic
• Technology Management
• Course TBA

Q. When are the classes?

There are generally two classes in Fall, two in Winter and one in Spring. Classes are three hours in duration, once a week, through the quarter.

Q. What if I can only attend some of the classes?

All fellows are expected to attend classes regularly. We admit fellows based on their commitment to the program.

Q: Do I receive credit for the courses?

Graduate students receive a transcript for their courses. As graduate students, you are enrolled in each course and receive an official course grade.

Postdocs are not enrolled students at the university so do not receive offical course credit. Postdocs will be graded in their coures but you do not receive an official university transcript.

Q: Can I transfer credits from the program?

Enrolled students who receive an official transcript may be able to transfer course credit to an MBA program. Transfer credit is determined by each university differently so you will need to have your transcript evaluated.

Q. How much time does the Fellows program take?

Fellows should anticipate spending 15-20 hours a week on the program, on top of your regular research / lab duties.

Two courses a quarter equals six hours of class time. On top of that, estimate another 12 - 14 of homework, group work, and projects.

Q.What kind of letter of support do I need?

Because of the outside time commitment, we ask that you advisor write a letter of support indicating they support your participation in the program. Your advisor should be on board with your participation, as you will likely need flexibility with your research and lab time to participate in the program.

 

Q: What is the Big Bang? Am I required to participate in it?

The Big Bang! is the annual student-run business plan competition. We encourage all Fellows to participate on a Big Bang! team. The work you do in the courses will often translate to your Big Bang! team. Generally, you should look for an MBA student to participate on a Big Bang! team with you.

Q: Who are in the Fellows classes?

The courses you take are part of the Graduate School of Management's MBA curriculum. You will be in a class with MBA students. In a class of 30, you can expect 22 will be MBA students and 8 will be BD Fellows.

Q: What is the benefit of taking courses with the MBA students?

We have found that wonderful things happen when you put together scientists and engieers with MBA students. Bringing together science and engineering with business helps students discover new concepts, possible business ventures, and alternate methods of thinking about an idea.

Q: What other events take place during the year?

Generally, in addition to the courework and Big Bang!, we host 3-4 social events during the year.

 

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