Northeastern University- Programs
The PEAR trainee model is not one-size-fits-all, it packages different PEAR components for different training programs: master’s degrees, doctorates, and graduate certificates. Different pathways have been created for students coming from social sciences, business, engineering, and computer science.
Graduate Certificate
This certificate can be completed as stand-alone credentials or in combination with a graduate degree to quickly gain a credential, advance skills and knowledge, and meet an emerging career market need. A new interdisciplinary graduate certificate program is offered called: “Digital Platform for Service Innovation” which can either be embedded in disciplinary graduate programs of study (with no additional time to degree) or taken as stand-alone credentials. Certificates will be made available to online students and at NU’s global campuses via remote learning.
One course from our NRT program, plus two electives from the PEAR elective list.
Research Traineeship Program
Collaboration between Northeastern University and two Minority-Serving institutions – Hampton University in Virginia and the University of Houston.
National Research Trainees may pursue any of the six training tracks found here by enrolling in a multitude of courses from engineering, computing, business, and social sciences.
Curriculum
Course 1:
Bridge Class in social sciences or business (for engineers) and in knowledge engineering (for social scientists and business majors). Students should choose one of the classes listed below or submit a petition for a different class they believe is suitable.
This course will add 4 units to the student’s schedule or be designated as an elective within their graduate program, therefore not increasing their total coursework.
Course 1 for Engineer/Computer Science:
PPUA5262 Big Data for Cities
PPUA6502 Economic Institutions and Analysis
SOC7231 Work, Employment, and Inequality
PHIL5005 Information Ethics
PHIL5010 AI Ethics
Course 1 for Social Science/Business:
IE 6400 Foundations for Data Analytics
CS 5800 Introduction to Algorithms
ALY 6000 Introduction to Analytics
Course 2:
Course 2 is a required interdisciplinary common core course taught by two PEAR faculty. Northeastern University, University of Houston, and Hampton University students who are obtaining the certificate will attend this in-person class at the Northeastern campus. The class will consist of a semester-long project consisting of three reports, completed in interdisciplinary teams. Students will also be trained in value-sensitive design (VSD). VSD is a skill-oriented approach to teaching ethical reflectivity in technology design.
ENGR 6010-Fundamentals of the Platform Economy
Course 3:
Choose a related elective from a wide list of training tracks. Students should choose one of the classes listed below or submit a petition for a different class they believe is suitable.
Modeling and Algorithms, Economic and Policy Analysis, Product Management & Platform-Based Business Model Innovations and Algorithms, Urban Affairs, Environmental, Energy, and Sustainability, Healthcare System
Seminars:
PEAR seminars are hosted at Northeastern University and broadcasted on Zoom to the broader PEAR community. Speakers will include professors, industry partners, and government leaders. Topics include the design of digital platforms, policy considerations, privacy issues, as well as professional development including mentoring skillsets, resume, and cover letter writing workshops.