Current Syllabus

The Corporation was founded in the Fall of 1997. Dr. Leonard Ferrari (Head of the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering) and Dr. Krishnan Ramu (Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering) founded the Corporation to provide students with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on professional business experience without leaving campus.

Two product groups were formed; the Personal Electric Rapid Transit Systems (PERTS) and the Distributed Information Systems Corporation (DISC). PERTS was established to evaluate possible innovations in high speed ground transportation using maglev technologies. DISC focused on a medical imaging database by working with the Maryland/Virginia Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. Approximately 50 students were involved during the inaugural semester; today nearly 150 students participate in the program.

Students receive credit based on their academic level and type of credit desired. Up to 3 credits are available and the Corporation now enjoys both independent and special study status. Although a majority of the students are of an engineering or business background, the current roster includes members of numerous other disciplines as well.

Through participation in the program, students are exposed to the various aspects of managing a business. Both product groups have developed elaborate organizational structures to efficiently manage their human resources. By working in a cross-functional team based environment, students gain an appreciation for the dynamics of an organization. The availability of numerous leadership positions has added greatly to the professional development and enrichment of students who take advantage of these opportunities. Industry specialists and recruiters alike have become increasingly interested in the Corporation's activities. The Virtual Corporation looks forward to the many exciting challenges and opportunities of the 21st Century.