Courses, credit, and application
Full xLab projects are open to undergraduates (sophomores and above) and graduate students through an application process.
Students typically submit an application, resume, and responses to short questions. Candidates may also be invited to interview and share professional references. Students admitted to xLab are given permission to register for the appropriate course based on their circumstances, such as:
- BTEC 398
- BTEC 498
- CSDS 601
xLab can also serve as a formal undergraduate capstone project for students who wish to use it for that purpose through BTEC 398, a 4-credit-hour course.
Admission and project assignment decisions are made in advance of the upcoming semester so that accepted students can register for the appropriate section.
Applications for this course will open in November for the spring 2027 semester.
xLab foundations for first-year students
First-year students interested in xLab can begin with MGMT 198: Experience in Business Problem Solving Using Digital and Artificial Intelligence Innovation.
MGMT 198 is similar to a mini-xLab experience. Students work in small teams on a real client challenge, but the course does not require applying to and being admitted into the full xLab program.
It is a strong way to gain early experience with project-based work, digital and AI-enabled problem solving, teamwork, and client-centered thinking. It can also help students build relationships with xLab faculty and prepare to apply for full xLab projects later.