BusSci100 - Business for Scientists
Course Description
Business for Scientists
BisSci 100 develops practical business knowledge for students pursuing science-based careers through an applied, asynchronous online learning experience. The course explores the relationship between business and scientific innovation by examining financial reporting, financial management, Profit & Loss (P&L) drivers, Return on Investment (ROI) analysis, product launch strategy, and competitive market analysis.
Through instructional videos, industry expert insights, current articles, and reflection-based assignments, students connect core business concepts to real-world scientific startups, research initiatives, and product development decisions. Upon successful completion of all module deliverables, students earn a professional development certificate.
Who Should Take This Course
- Science Students Exploring Career Pathways: Students in science-based majors who want to understand how business decisions shape scientific careers, startups, research initiatives, and product development.
- Students Interested in Scientific Innovation: Individuals who want to learn how financial reporting, P&L management, ROI analysis, and strategy influence the development and launch of new scientific products or services.
- Future Scientific Entrepreneurs: Students considering careers in startups, biotechnology, research commercialization, product development, consulting, or other science-based ventures where business knowledge is essential.
- Students Seeking Applied Business Knowledge: Learners looking for practical exposure to financial management, marketing, competitive analysis, unmet needs analysis, and strategy formulation.
- Collaborative and Self-Motivated Learners: Students comfortable working independently through an asynchronous Canvas-based eLearning course while completing module-based reflection assignments.
What You’ll Gain
By the end of the course, students will:
- Develop a stronger understanding of the relationship between business principles and science-based careers.
- Explain the importance of financial reporting and financial management for scientific startups, research initiatives, and science-based organizations.
- Understand how Profit & Loss management works, including how sales, marketing, administration, and research & development impact financial performance.
- Apply Return on Investment (ROI) analysis to innovation and new product development decision-making.
- Evaluate the strategic and financial implications of launching new scientific products or services.
- Analyze external business environments, competition, unmet market needs, and strategic opportunities.
- Reflect on key takeaways from each module and connect business concepts to scientific careers, innovation, and real-world decision-making.
- Earn a professional development certificate upon successful completion of all course deliverables.
Required Materials
Instructor-provided readings, videos, and reflection-based assignments delivered through Canvas.
Questions?
Email Casey Wilhelm at wilhelm@uidaho.edu