In a push to attract highly talented entrepreneurs from around the world to the state of Connecticut, UConn is launching a new Master\u2019s of Engineering in Global Entrepreneurship, the first engineering-focused entrepreneurial graduate degree in the state.<\/p>\n
The new master\u2019s degree program, a partnership between the UConn Schools of Engineering and Business, Trinity College, and the University of New Haven, is intended to create a nurturing ecosystem for a profession that sees 90 percent of start-ups fold. It will enable novice entrepreneurs to learn best practices, receive mentorship from veteran entrepreneurs, and be set up for success.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis program, and its related initiatives, will be a major step towards bringing in the best and the brightest from all over the world, giving them the tools they need, and turning them into major entrepreneurial advocates for the state of Connecticut,\u201d says associate dean of engineering Mei Wei. \u201cIf we can bring them in early, train them, and open up doors toward commercialization, then we can literally help create start-ups from scratch, and help them to grow roots in this state.\u201d<\/p>\n
The program, which is fully funded, will recruit individuals from all over the world who are in the early stages of developing start-ups, or who have shown an impressive penchant for entrepreneurship, to apply to the program. Accepted students will receive full tuition remission, a yearly stipend, and significant other resources to help them commercialize their ventures.<\/p>\n
Kazem Kazerounian, dean of the School of Engineering, says it is essential to spread the net wide when recruiting in order to bring in the most talented students, regardless of their state or country of origin, in the same way student-athletes are recruited. \u201cWe have to search nationally and internationally to assemble the best possible collection of talent,\u201d he says, \u201csetting us up for sustained success in entrepreneurship.\u201d<\/p>\n
John Elliott, dean of the School of Business, says that creating more entrepreneurial programs in a wider variety of academic concentrations will have a significant impact on Connecticut\u2019s economic future.<\/p>\n
“At the School of Business, we have a tremendous opportunity to help other entrepreneurs, in the sciences, engineering, medicine, and other specialties, to develop the business knowledge and meet the mentors and advisers who can help them take a great idea and bring it to the marketplace.<\/p>\n
“This is a pivotal juncture for our students and faculty,\u201d he adds. \u201cWe are charting a powerful course that will ultimately impact our entire state and beyond.\u201d<\/p>\n