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Computer Science Entrepreneurship Combines Technology, Business Skills A growing number of computer science majors crave to know more about entrepreneurship, whether it's running a start-up or launching their own business.  Now in its second year, the computer science master's program with an entrepreneurship emphasis is not only preparing to graduate its first class but it is also finding an increasing number of students interested in the unique program. The emphasis teaches students both the computer science and business sides of technology companies "America excels at entrepreneurship and USF in particular has a top entrepreneurial business school," said Terence Parr, computer science assistant professor and graduate program director. "The computer science entrepreneurship emphasis goes beyond a traditional graduate technology degree to teach students how to form a company around their ideas. Graduates emerge knowing how to handle the tech component, how to write their own business plan, how to evaluate a market, and how to manage people." That combination of business training and computer skills is generating enthusiasm among students who haven't typically been drawn to traditional computer science master's programs. In particular, Parr said, the entrepreneurship emphasis seems to appeal to women and to American students more than the typical graduate technology degree. Mary Vattavayalil, for example, was drawn to the entrepreneurship emphasis because she wanted to learn about the project management level in companies. A software engineer for two years, Vattavayalil knew that a traditional computer science program would not have helped her explore the management aspect. "Also, computer science students often have ideas that are technologically sound, but are unsure how to turn them into profitable businesses," she said. "This program equips computer science graduates with that knowledge." Although most students likely won't be ready to launch their own businesses immediately after completing the program, the business skills they learn could help if they eventually become entrepreneurs. Additionally, Parr said, graduates' combined business and computer training is beneficial for any size company, making them especially attractive candidates to potential employers. "This emphasis is a way for graduates to distinguish themselves from those holding traditional master's degrees because they learn what to build, not just how to build it," Parr said. "It is often through a combination of technology and management that individuals can make a significant contribution. Start-ups seek this particular combination because each contributor must play multiple roles. Larger companies also value well-rounded employees as they tend to excel in upper management positions." |
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