What is the Collaboratory for Externships and Experiential Innovation?
Through the Rutgers Master of Business and Science (MBS) program, the Collaboratory are experiential learning project for students to gain exposure to Industry Innovation in a variety of STEM, Business, and Design industries.
Our Story
Over the last 6+ years, we have innovated and developed a remote project / externship program at Rutgers University, converging research, industry innovations, and structured faculty and company mentorship, within a guided course format.
We currently have approx. 170 masters and undergrad students per semester (fall, spring, and summer), supported by 16 advisors & faculty, supported by 13 student workers.
This is a way for students, in teams working remotely, to learn under the mentorship and guidance of both a faculty member and an external company mentor. Our structure allowed us to pivot and bring in more students who may have lost jobs, internships, and opportunities due to Covid-19, or who wanted more experience/pivot into new areas.
In the News
From Classroom to Countryside: Students Complete Externship for Kraus Farms
MBS Externship Exchange Program Partners with NJBDA for Fellowships
MBS Externship Exchange: A Visit to the Colgate-Palmolive Office
Our Goal
The goal of our program is to train the next generation of individuals to assume leadership roles in science-intensive industries to fuel innovation and economic growth. Guided by this mission, the program leverages Rutgers’ unique geographic position and strong industry ties. Through these advantages, our program offers many strengths and benefits to our students and partners.
Our Advisory Board
Christie Nelson, Ph.D.
Collaboratory Director
Karen Bemis, Ph.D.
Collaboratory Assistant Director
Deborah Silver, Ph.D.
Executive Director, MBS
And more!
Externships bring to students hands on experiential learning opportunities with industry partners. These projects connect students with the latest in innovation and thought leaders, with a focus on layers of mentoring. Students are prepared to join the workforce, pivot into a new area, or build on their existing skills.