Science Innovation
Although scientific discoveries continue at a dizzying pace, turning those discoveries into something that improves the quality of life for people and the planet typically involves a business. Training students who have both science and business coursework and experience fills a critical need to augment the successful development of products matched to market and consumer needs. The Science Innovation Learning Community (SILC), open to incoming College of Science and Daniels School of Business students, provides the introduction to this interdisciplinary training with other people interested in science-driven entrepreneurship. This residential learning community will help you develop important research and communication skills, such as working in a team and crafting a persuasive presentation for a target audience. You will also be introduced to case studies and develop critical thinking skills to weigh tradeoffs for business viability.
The SILC program is an innovative experiential learning opportunity designed to immerse students in both business and scientific fields. Through real-world projects, a live-in learning community, and dedicated staff support, participants will develop valuable scientific and technical skills while fostering collaboration and innovation. By combining classroom learning with real-world application, SILC will be a cornerstone of interdisciplinary experiential learning where students will forge partnerships across majors and colleges. Equipping College of Science and Daniels School of Business students with the technical knowledge and industry connections needed for success in science business innovation, SILC is designed to provide a transformative educational experience.
Eligibility
First-year students in the College of Science and/or Daniels School of Business.
Residential Component
- Students will indicate interest in learning communities (LCs) and apply during their housing application process. Students will be informed of the status of their LC application in mid-May.
- Roommate selection will occur after LC decisions have been made. If admitted to an LC, students will need to match with other student(s) admitted to the same LC. If not selected for an LC, the student's original housing preferences will be considered during general housing placement and the student will be able to roommate match with other general housing students.
- The location of learning community housing will be determined based on the incoming class size and the needs of the learning community.
- For specific question regarding learning communities, email learningcommunities@purdue.edu.
- For housing questions, visit (https://www.housing.purdue.edu/) or email housing@purdue.edu.
Duration
Full Academic Year
Associated Courses and Information
Fall:
SCI 19500 1 CR
Spring:
SCI 19500 1 CR
Every fee eligible student involved with a learning community (LC) at Purdue will be assessed the $200 LC fee to their university account. These funds support activities and travel, signature LC events, housing assignments and/or course registration and instructor stipends.
Events and Activities Included:
- Tours of affiliated labs/research spaces
- On-campus social events
- Visit to Indianapolis campus and 16 Tech region and Makerspace
- Case studies and presentations
- Hackathons
- Tour of corporate facilities
Information above is subject to change. If you are placed in the LC, the associated courses will be on your schedule prior to you registering for the rest of your courses.