Preparing leaders for the intersection of science and business

In today’s dynamic health care landscape, the Life Science Entrepreneurship focus area in the School of Management’s MBA program equips students with a strong foundation to meet the challenges of the future.

“The intent of the program is to cross-train,” says Todd Saxton, associate professor of entrepreneurship and innovation. “The lines between business and the pure practice of health care have blurred. There are great opportunities to build bridges between the two in order to feed the innovation engine in life sciences both in our community and around the world.”

MBA students take courses that teach the core aspects of biology, biomedicine, informatics and even how to navigate complex regulatory environments or advance cutting-edge technologies.

Meanwhile, science students take one-credit classes in marketing, operations and finance to understand the foundations of business. All students develop an entrepreneurial mindset and habits, building skills to lead life science startups or drive innovation at established companies.

“I’ve found that as people advance in their careers, they may be looking for more meaning and purpose in their work,” says Saxton. “It can feel rewarding being part of an effort to, for example, reduce childhood disease and suffering. This focus area allows management students to lead and innovate in ventures where they can make a difference.”

In the future, life science professionals outside of UB will also be able to enroll in the certificate program.