Arizona State University Launches Innovative Life Sciences Business Program with Mark McKenna's Support
Arizona State University (ASU) is on track to transform the educational landscape for aspiring healthcare leaders by launching the McKenna Life Sciences, Business and Entrepreneurship Program (MLSBE) in fall 2026. This innovative initiative is made possible through the generous backing of ASU alumni, Mark and Sheri McKenna, and is designed to prepare students for impactful careers in the fast-evolving field of healthcare innovation.
Emerging from ASU’s commitment to excellence, the MLSBE Program integrates a unique blend of life sciences and business education, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals who can navigate the intersection of these vital sectors. As healthcare continues to evolve, there is an increasing requirement for individuals who can contribute to both the scientific and commercial aspects of the industry. This new program responds to that need and aspires to produce the next generation of innovators who will lead meaningful advancements.
Mark McKenna, known for his impressive career as a biotech entrepreneur and CEO of Prometheus Biosciences, exemplifies the program's vision. Under his leadership, Prometheus successfully raised over $1 billion and orchestrated one of the largest biopharma acquisitions in history. His belief in the power of interdisciplinary thinking drives the mission of the MLSBE Program. "When I was a student at ASU, I saw firsthand how powerful it is to think beyond one discipline. This program exists to help students combine their passions in life sciences and business — and to accelerate the kind of breakthrough ideas that can improve lives around the world," McKenna stated.
The MLSBE Program offers a dual-degree pathway, allowing students to earn both a Bachelor of Science in a natural science discipline and a Bachelor of Finance while also obtaining a certificate in entrepreneurship and innovation — all within four years. This structure is designed to endow graduates with the comprehensive skill set necessary to tackle real-world challenges within the healthcare space.
Students in the program will have the opportunity to focus on various areas of study within the natural sciences, including biomedical sciences, biochemistry, data science, or neuroscience. The curriculum encompasses not only traditional academic courses but also emphasizes practical experiences, such as internships and mentorship opportunities with industry leaders. Capstone projects provide a real-world application of knowledge, where students can solve complex problems faced by healthcare companies.
In addition to the academic rigor, the program incorporates specialized coursework that navigates topics critical to the life sciences business landscape: intellectual property, the regulatory environment, and the dynamics of venture capital. This forward-thinking approach ensures that graduates are well-versed and prepared for the intricacies of healthcare business management and innovation.
Furthermore, the immersive nature of the MLSBE Program leverages cutting-edge technologies such as Dreamscape Learn's virtual reality platforms. These resources allow students to engage in interactive, 3D learning experiences that enliven the curriculum and enhance their educational journey.
The program also features extensive support structures, including dedicated academic and career advisors, peer mentorship, and access to entrepreneurial resources through ASU’s Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute. This multifaceted approach aims to foster not only academic success but also genuine career readiness and entrepreneurial spirit among students.
"This initiative reflects the innovative spirit that drives everything we do at W. P. Carey. Mark and Sheri McKenna's visionary gift makes this interdisciplinary experience a reality and will undoubtedly equip our students with the skills and mindset needed to make groundbreaking contributions to healthcare and beyond," emphasized Ohad Kadan, Dean of the W. P. Carey School of Business.
Through this ambitious program, ASU is not just preparing students for careers; it is nurturing the thought leaders and innovators who will shape the future of healthcare. As the demand for such talent continues to surge, the MLSBE Program stands as a remarkable testament to ASU's commitment to fostering interdisciplinary education that bridges critical fields for the benefit of society. Students interested in these opportunities can look forward to a revolutionary educational experience that prepares them for impactful roles in the rapidly evolving healthcare sector. To learn more about the McKenna Life Sciences, Business and Entrepreneurship Program, visit mlsbe.asu.edu.
Emerging from ASU’s commitment to excellence, the MLSBE Program integrates a unique blend of life sciences and business education, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals who can navigate the intersection of these vital sectors. As healthcare continues to evolve, there is an increasing requirement for individuals who can contribute to both the scientific and commercial aspects of the industry. This new program responds to that need and aspires to produce the next generation of innovators who will lead meaningful advancements.
Mark McKenna, known for his impressive career as a biotech entrepreneur and CEO of Prometheus Biosciences, exemplifies the program's vision. Under his leadership, Prometheus successfully raised over $1 billion and orchestrated one of the largest biopharma acquisitions in history. His belief in the power of interdisciplinary thinking drives the mission of the MLSBE Program. "When I was a student at ASU, I saw firsthand how powerful it is to think beyond one discipline. This program exists to help students combine their passions in life sciences and business — and to accelerate the kind of breakthrough ideas that can improve lives around the world," McKenna stated.
The MLSBE Program offers a dual-degree pathway, allowing students to earn both a Bachelor of Science in a natural science discipline and a Bachelor of Finance while also obtaining a certificate in entrepreneurship and innovation — all within four years. This structure is designed to endow graduates with the comprehensive skill set necessary to tackle real-world challenges within the healthcare space.
Students in the program will have the opportunity to focus on various areas of study within the natural sciences, including biomedical sciences, biochemistry, data science, or neuroscience. The curriculum encompasses not only traditional academic courses but also emphasizes practical experiences, such as internships and mentorship opportunities with industry leaders. Capstone projects provide a real-world application of knowledge, where students can solve complex problems faced by healthcare companies.
In addition to the academic rigor, the program incorporates specialized coursework that navigates topics critical to the life sciences business landscape: intellectual property, the regulatory environment, and the dynamics of venture capital. This forward-thinking approach ensures that graduates are well-versed and prepared for the intricacies of healthcare business management and innovation.
Furthermore, the immersive nature of the MLSBE Program leverages cutting-edge technologies such as Dreamscape Learn's virtual reality platforms. These resources allow students to engage in interactive, 3D learning experiences that enliven the curriculum and enhance their educational journey.
The program also features extensive support structures, including dedicated academic and career advisors, peer mentorship, and access to entrepreneurial resources through ASU’s Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute. This multifaceted approach aims to foster not only academic success but also genuine career readiness and entrepreneurial spirit among students.
"This initiative reflects the innovative spirit that drives everything we do at W. P. Carey. Mark and Sheri McKenna's visionary gift makes this interdisciplinary experience a reality and will undoubtedly equip our students with the skills and mindset needed to make groundbreaking contributions to healthcare and beyond," emphasized Ohad Kadan, Dean of the W. P. Carey School of Business.
Through this ambitious program, ASU is not just preparing students for careers; it is nurturing the thought leaders and innovators who will shape the future of healthcare. As the demand for such talent continues to surge, the MLSBE Program stands as a remarkable testament to ASU's commitment to fostering interdisciplinary education that bridges critical fields for the benefit of society. Students interested in these opportunities can look forward to a revolutionary educational experience that prepares them for impactful roles in the rapidly evolving healthcare sector. To learn more about the McKenna Life Sciences, Business and Entrepreneurship Program, visit mlsbe.asu.edu.
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