Continuing Education - Science Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Continuing Education - Science Innovation and Entrepreneurship

In today’s fast-changing world, both academia and industry increasingly demand professionals who not only possess strong scientific knowledge but also the ability to innovate and think entrepreneurially. Academic institutions now prioritize interdisciplinary research with real-world impact, valuing individuals who can reach innovative approaches and potential applications beyond the laboratory, translate research into tangible outcomes through patents, technology transfer, or collaboration with industry partners. Similarly, industries across sectors like healthcare, biotechnology, AI, clean energy, and more seek employees who can creatively solve problems, develop new products, and drive continuous improvement. Employers value professionals who combine scientific thinking with innovative and entrepreneurial skills because they can identify market needs, design effective solutions, and scale innovations efficiently. The ability to think scientifically, innovate strategically, and act entrepreneurially is a core competency that make you more competitive in the academic and science-based industries and enterprises market, and effective in addressing complex challenges, advancing research, and contributing meaningfully to economic growth and societal progress.

The St. Mary’s University Microcredential Certificate in Science Innovation and Entrepreneurship is designed for those interested in applying scientific knowledge in real-world, entrepreneurial contexts. This flexible, modular program allows learners to build a strong foundation in responsible research, ethics, intellectual property, and strategic entrepreneurship while gaining practical experience in the commercialization of science-based innovations. Graduates of Microcredential Certificate in Science Innovation and Entrepreneurship will be equipped to lead interdisciplinary research, develop market-ready innovations, and secure funding through compelling, application-focused proposals. They will be prepared to drive scientific and technological advancement, contribute to knowledge transfer, and create value in both academic and industry settings through entrepreneurial action.

Modular format of this program allows you to build personalized learning pathway making it easier to fit studies around work and personal commitments, quickly gain relevant competencies that complement their main degree or professional background. Earning microcredentials demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and skills development, qualities employers increasingly look for. They provide evidence of practical abilities alongside academic credentials, making students more competitive in both job applications and career advancement.

Whether you’re an aspiring innovator, early-career scientist, research coordinator, or someone with a passion for turning ideas into impact, this program will equip you with critical skills to innovate responsibly and lead in today’s knowledge economy.

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Skills You'll Gain

Graduates from the Continuing Education Science Innovation and Entrepreneurship program will develop strong skills in the following aspects:

Rigorous Scientific Research Design

Learn to design, conduct, analyze, and communicate research effectively, using methods that meet the highest standards of scientific rigor and impact.

Ethical Decision-Making in Research

Explore the ethical landscape of scientific investigation—from human and animal research to data and AI—and learn how to develop research project aligned with modern ethical standards.

Understanding Intellectual Property and Open Science

Gain insights into patents, copyrights, licensing, and the growing open science movement, balancing innovation with accessibility and societal benefit.

Entrepreneurial Thinking for Scientists

Cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and strategies, and explore how to turn scientific ideas into ventures, social enterprises, or marketable technologies.

Marketing and Strategic Communication

Learn how to position science innovations in the marketplace, create compelling value propositions, and develop strategies to reach your target audience.

Grant Writing and Funding Acquisition

Learn how to write compelling, evidence-based proposals for scientific and startup grants, building grant budgets, timelines, and deliverables aligned with impact goals.

Creativity and Innovation

Develop creative confidence, strategic problem-solving and innovative thinking to approach problems from new perspectives, generate original ideas and solutions to complex scientific problems that drive meaningful change in economy and society.

Design Thinking

Apply human-centered, iterative approaches, critical analysis, and system thinking to scientific research and learn how to empathize with users, identify root cause, prototype creative solutions, and iteratively refine innovations to address real-world needs effectively.

Leadership

Gain confidence in inspiring and guiding interdisciplinary teams through strategic decision making in high-risk or uncertain innovation contexts.

Career Pathways

Government Agencies

Academia & Research Institutions

Industry (Biotech, Health Care, Technology)

Environmental, Conservation, and Clean Energy Sector

Startups and Entrepreneurship

Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Offices

Think Tanks and Innovation Hubs

R&D Departments in Private Sector (Across Industries)

Corporate Innovation and Strategy Units

Health Innovation & Digital Health

Scientific Publishing, Editing, and Knowledge Translation

Philanthropic Foundations and Science Funders

Venture Capital and Science Investment

Innovation Intermediaries and Ecosystem Builders

Consulting Firms (Science, Tech, or Management)

Non-Profit Organizations & NGOs

Media and Science Communication Organizations

Education and Training Organizations

International Development and Global Health Organizations

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and ESG Roles

Course Offerings

Courses (Badges)

Badge 1 – Principles of Authentic Research (CESE 911) ▼

Gain a comprehensive understanding of how to design and implement scientific research with real-world impact. This course focuses on developing analytical and communication skills, critical thinking, and ethical research practices applicable across scientific fields and innovation settings

Badge 2 – Research Ethics: A Guide for Responsible Research (CESE 912) ▼

Explore ethical considerations in research, including those involving human participants, Indigenous communities, animals, AI, and data privacy. Through case studies and regulatory frameworks, students will develop protocols and skills to navigate ethical review processes with integrity.

Badge 3 – Leadership for Science Innovations (CESE 913) ▼

Develop strategies, skills and tools to identify and address inefficiency and optimize scientific processes, analyze complex systems, identify areas for improvement, design and implement evidence-based interventions to drive impactful innovations.

Badge 4 – Principles of Scientific Communication (CESE 921) ▼

Explore how to effectively and ethically communicate scientific knowledge to diverse audiences. Through practical exercises and case studies, students will apply scientific rigor, reliability, research integrity, and responsible data management in all aspects of scientific reporting.

Badge 5 – Intellectual Property and Open Science Perspectives (CESE 922) ▼

Understand the frameworks behind patents, trademarks, copyrights, and licensing in the context of science entrepreneurship. Learn about open science models and their implications for collaboration, innovation, and public good.

Badge 6 – Mastering the Art of Scientific Grants Applications (CESE 923) ▼

Explore the process of applying for scientific grants, including government, foundation, and industry-sponsored grants. Through practical exercises and real-world examples, participants will gain essential skills in writing compelling grant proposals and effectively managing funded projects.

Badge 7 – Foundations of Entrepreneurship in Science and Technology (CESE 931)▼

Develop the skills to identify opportunities, evaluate feasibility, and build business models for science-based ventures. The course explores innovation leadership, social impact, and the entrepreneurial process within scientific domains.

Badge 8 – Marketing Foundations for Science Entrepreneurship (CESE 932)▼

Master marketing concepts tailored to scientific products and services, including customer segmentation, positioning, branding, and competitive analysis. Apply your skills through real world case studies and strategy development. 

Badge 9 – Science Project Management (CESE 933) ▼

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the process of scaling science and technology ventures while addressing leadership, sustainability, and the social impact of innovation. Through case studies and simulations, students will learn how to manage resources, assess and mitigate risks, and build strategies for growth of science innovation projects effectively and responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Program Overview 

Q: What is the Science Innovation and Entrepreneurship Microcredential Certificate? A: It is a five-course, stackable microcredential designed to equip learners with the tools to  conduct responsible research and launch or support innovation-based ventures in science and  technology fields. 

Q: Who is this program for? 

A: Ideal for early-career researchers, aspiring entrepreneurs, innovation professionals, or  anyone interested in bringing science into real-world application.

Q: How long does the program take? 

A: Each badge is designed to be completed in approximately 4–5 weeks, allowing the full  certificate to be completed in about 6 months. 

Q: How are the courses delivered? 

A: Courses are fully online and asynchronous, giving learners flexibility while maintaining  structure and support. 

Courses & Content 

Q: What are the five badges in the program? 

A: 

  • SCIE 901 – Principles of Authentic Research 
  • SCIE 902 – Research Ethics: A Guide for Responsible Research 
  • SCIE 904 – Intellectual Property and Open Science Perspectives 
  • SCIE 906 – Foundations of Entrepreneurship in Science and Technology SCIE 907 – Marketing Foundations for Science Entrepreneurship 

Q: Can I take one or two badges instead of the full program? 

A: Yes, most badges can be taken individually, depending on prerequisites. Completing all five  earns the certificate. 

Q: Are the courses theoretical or applied? 

A: The program combines conceptual learning with practical applications, including case studies,  planning exercises, and strategy development projects. 

Admissions & Requirements 

Q: Are there any prerequisites? 

A: Badge 1 (SCIE 901) is recommended as the starting point. Other badges may be taken  concurrently or after Badge 1, depending on student background. 

Q: Do I need a science background to enroll? 

A: While a general understanding of science is helpful, the program is designed to be accessible  to individuals from diverse backgrounds with a strong interest in innovation.

Q: How are assignments evaluated? 

A: Assessments are pass/fail and include case studies, proposals, marketing plans, and  innovation models. Feedback is formative and supportive.

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