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Academic Design Course Agreement Instructions

Scope

NC State’s Academic Course Design Agreement may not be used for federally funded projects or as cost-match toward federally funded projects. For use in prescribed undergraduate and graduate academic coursework involving “real-life” problems suitable for addressing as a natural embodiment of course objectives wherein enrollees and prospective course sponsors team to identify and solve engineering, design, or other technical issues associated with the conduct of business. It should be used when an external sponsor proposes a problem and agrees to the terms and conditions of the Academic Course Design Agreement.

Indirect Costs (F&A)

This is a fixed-price agreement, with a $25,000 cap and a 15% modified total direct cost (MTDC) rate. The indirect costs rate only applies when there are no substantive changes to the agreement. Negotiation and execution of any agreement is by SPARCS only. Departure from the standard terms and conditions outlined in this agreement nullifies the reduced overhead rate.

Instructions

Prior to engaging in such an endeavor, a properly processed PINS record is required. Each PINS proposal should include a statement of work and budget. These agreements are not for use other than when pre-approved and executed by SPARCS. Each student must sign a Project Participation Agreement, acknowledging that the terms of the agreement define their rights regarding intellectual property and that they are further bound by the terms of the agreement with the sponsor. College research offices (CROs) will upload Project Participation Agreements into RADAR as received. Faculty and other nonstudent involvement must be limited to only duties defined in the course syllabus. Expansion of effort outside of the scope and expectations of the course, or the involvement of those not enrolled in the course, may constitute a breach of various university policies involving intellectual property, publication and confidentiality, among others.