Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the program?
- The BS in IT&D program is a full-length bachelor’s degree program offered in two formats:
- an intensive format that can be completed in three years, including two required summer terms; or
- a traditional four-year format that enables students to have the full four-year undergraduate experience and pursue study abroad or other co-curricular activities
- Sample plans of study for each option are included in the Academic Bulletin
When do I complete the internships?
- Students in the three-year program complete two 6-credit internships over two required summer terms.
- Students in the four-year program can complete multiple internships during the academic year or in optional summer terms.
Will I be guaranteed an internship?
- Yes. Students in good academic standing will be guaranteed twelve credits of internship experiences.
Will I have the choice to work with either industry or civic partners for my internship?
- Yes. You may select to work with either a civic or industry partner for your internships.
Can I take part in a UM Study Abroad Program as a student in this program?
Will I be guaranteed a seat in the UM Study Abroad Program, if I am in the Fall 2022 cohort and choose the 4 year plan of study?
- Yes! Students following the four-year plan of study in good academic standing are guaranteed a spot in any U program and have priority for any exchange program. Many U programs offer internships as well. Students would still need to meet eligibility requirements and complete the application requirements.
Can I do a double major with the B.S. in Innovation, Technology, and Design program?
- We do not advise students to pursue a second major as the ITD program will have Design Challenges courses each semester that will be multi-disciplinary and have team projects.
Can I complete a minor with the B.S. in Innovation, Technology and Design program?
- Students following the four-year plan of study can complete a minor with the ITD Program. It may not be possible for students completing the three-year plan of study based on the intensive course load. Students can elect to pursue a non-STEM minor in lieu of one of the required cognates. Academic advisors will provide students with guidance on course selection for minors.
I am interested in a pre-med program. Is this program right for me?
- The intensive nature of the ITD program is not compatible with the pre-med curriculum.
Is there a way I can complete my summer internship requirement during the academic year?
- If a student chooses the four-year plan of study, they will be able to fulfill the internship course requirements during the academic year (fall/spring semesters).
Will I be guaranteed an internship?
- Yes. Students in good academic standing will be guaranteed twelve credits of internship experiences.
Will I have the choice to work with either industry or civic partners for my internship?
- Yes. You may select to work with either a civic or industry partner for your internships.
Where will the Design Challenges courses be held?
- The Design Challenges courses will be held in the new “Innovation Lab” in McArthur Engineering. The space will have all tools to tinker and create, and open to all ITD students 24/7!
Will I have support in the “Innovation Lab” while using the 3-D printers and other equipment?
- Yes, a dedicated facilities staff member will be in the lab to assist students during the day.
What is an “approved elective”?
- Program advisors will assist students with course selection according to the students interest and capstone project topic. Approved electives can be undergraduate courses from any School or College (Engineering, Business, Communication, Arts & Sciences, RSMAS,..).
Who will provide advising support?
- ITD students will be assigned a peer mentor during the summer, prior to their arrival on campus. ITD students will be assigned Faculty mentors who will provide coaching throughout the students participation in the program. Students will also have professional advising support.
I see that the program is part of the College of Engineering. Will all our classes be taught by Engineering professors?
- The ITD program is multi-disciplinary and core courses will be taught by faculty from many UM Schools and Colleges. Engineering, Business, Communications, Arts & Sciences, RSMAS faculty will be teaching, as well as Law School Professors! This is the only undergraduate B.S degree program at our University to have multi disciplinary faculty working as teams to teach your classes.
Will the program have an “innovative” pedagogical approach?
- Yes. The ITD program is based on fully active learning, where students are engaged in, and responsible for, their own learning journey. Coursework takes advantage of problem based and project based learning, where students get real work practice applying the skills they are learning
As a student in the ITD program, will I have time to take part in Greek life and other extracurricular student activities?
Will the ITD Program have co-curricular activities for students?
- Yes, the program has an Experiential learning expert dedicated to the program, who works with faculty to develop meaningful co-curricular engaging activities.
I have financial aid. Will there be a limitation to the plan of study choice?
- Student financial aid packages will cover either the three-year or four-year plan of study.
I have financial aid. Can I complete the ITD program in three years, and continue receiving financial aid for a fourth year to take part in a one-year master’s degree program?
- Students may continue their studies by enrolling in a one-year master’s degree program, however, their undergraduate financial aid will not continue once the ITD program is completed.
I have a scholarship. Will there be a limitation to the plan of study choice?
- Student scholarships will cover either the three-year or four-year plan of study.
I have a scholarship. Can I complete the ITD program in three years, and continue receiving financial aid for a fourth year to take part in a one-year master’s degree program?
- Students may continue their studies by enrolling in a one-year master’s degree program, however their scholarships will not continue once the ITD program is completed.
I am a transfer student. Can I enroll in the ITD program?
- Yes, transfer students transferring in less than 30 credits can enroll in the program. Contact the program advisor to determine your plan of study.
How can I enroll in the program?
- The first cohort for the ITD program will be by invitation. Invited students interested in enrolling will receive a link to access an enrollment form. If you are interested in the program but haven’t received an invitation, please contact coe_innovation@miami.edu.
When do I need to enroll to be guaranteed a seat in the ITD Program?
- Students need to enroll as soon as possible. Please note that the program will close enrollment when the 30 student cap is met.
I have questions about the ITD Program. Who can I reach out to?
- Feel free to send an e-mail to coe_innovation@miami.edu. We can set up a Zoom or phone call for you, with a faculty member, or academic advisor.
