Work in progress — restructuring online capstone courses in partnership with industry for professional science master´s (PSM) recognition

The procedures and challenges for acquiring a PSM designation for online programs are introduced. The approaches for creating partnerships with industry and restructuring the capstone courses, developed by the Biotechnology and Telecommunications Management PSM programs at University of Maryland University College, are presented. The significance of the newly designed capstone courses, their integration with virtual internships, the expected outcomes, and the preliminary results are discussed. Innovative use of technology, recommended teaching strategies, and lessons learned by program directors and industry liaisons are shared.