Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Professional Development Program (PDP)?

  • The PDP was established to help students become well prepared for the challenges present in an increasingly competitive business environment.  At the lower division, students will earn points by attending events designed to provide exposure to the world of business.  Once admitted to the upper division, students will participate in activities designed to provide experience in the world of business.

When did the PDP program begin?

  • The PDP program began in August 2008.  Students who entered college during the Fall 2008 term and after are required to participate in the PDP in order to graduate.  This includes students who transfer into business from other institutions or divisions on the MU campus.

How can students earn points?

How many points are required to be admitted to the Upper Level?

  • Students must earn a minimum of 70 (and a maximum of 100) PDP points at the Lower Level for admission to the Upper Level.  Once admitted to the Upper Level, students must continue to earn PDP points to meet the graduation requirement.  The minimum total of PDP points that must be earned before graduation is 200.

What happens if a student fails to meet the point requirement ?

  • Students will not be admitted to the Upper Level if they fail to meet the point requirement at the Lower Level.  Once admitted to the Upper Level, students who fail to meet the point requirement will not graduate.

How can students track points?

  • Students can learn about PDP events and track points on blackboard:  blackboard.missouri.edu; Look for announcements and tracking under "Professional Development Program (Trulaske Experience)"

Once admitted to the upper division in the Trulaske College of Business, what are the PDP requirements?

  • Students will continue to attend professional events for points,
  • Students will complete a Professional Development Course (3 credits),
  • Students will complete a practicum experience (3 credits)

Last Edited: 7/10/2009