The Professional Science Master's (PSM) degree is a creative addition to US graduate education, expressly to support innovation and workforce development in a globally competitive economy. Initiated in the 1990s with funding from two US private foundations, there is still a question as to whether universities will sustain it beyond the start-up phase. The degree is designed to prepare graduates for professional employment in which a combination of technical and management functions come together. PSM programmes combine solid advanced science/mathematics, a working knowledge of business principles, experience working in interdisciplinary groups and high-level communication and technical skills, capped by internships in business, government and industry. (Contains 3 tables.)