GEOSC 401Geosciences Entrepreneurship: Embrace Change

3 credits · Geosciences · Penn State

This course explores the intersection of entrepreneurship and geoscience, focusing on emerging fields and the changing dynamics of traditional industries. Targeted at upper-level undergraduate and graduate students of all majors, the course aims to equip participants with entrepreneurial skills and a mindset that goes beyond starting new companies. By incorporating case studies, guest lectures, and practical exercises, and student led-research, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the entrepreneurial opportunities within geoscience. The course may cover a range of topics, including critical minerals, geothermal energy, carbon sequestration, and geological hydrogen, which are becoming increasingly important to society. Students will explore the geoscience principles, technological innovations, market dynamics, policy considerations, and environmental impacts associated with these fields. Additionally, the course emphasizes the value of entrepreneurial thinking for researchers and employees within legacy companies, such as the hydrocarbon industry, encouraging them to embrace intrapreneurship and drive innovation. Throughout the course, students will develop essential entrepreneurial skills, including opportunity identification, market analysis, business planning, financing strategies, and ethical considerations. They will also learn about collaboration, networking, and leadership within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and mindset to navigate emerging fields, adapt to shifting landscapes, and create value in geoscience-related ventures, whether as entrepreneurs or intrapreneurs and researchers.