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A Dozen New Academic Programs Build More Career Pathways

ÀÏ°ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±¼Ç¼ launched five new majors, five new minors, one new concentration and one new certificate program to provide students with expertise in high-growth areas in which employers are searching for talent. New offerings available this fall include:

• Engineering Physics Major: Meeting the rising demand for engineering professionals equipped with strong interdisciplinary skills, this program aligns with the evolving landscape of scientific inquiry and addresses the growing needs of employers seeking individuals with a diverse skill set that spans both theoretical understanding and practical application.

• Robotics Minor: This program provides hands-on multidisciplinary experience in robotics systems, giving students the skills and experience in robotics and automation that’s sought after in manufacturing, defense, research and development, robotics sales/service, and a host of other industries.

• Sustainability Minor: Meeting the growing demand for environmental stewardship and sustainable practices, this program offers a unique opportunity to delve into the interconnected realms of environmental science, policy and ethical responsibility, showing students how to navigate the complex environmental issues of our time.

• Management Major: Employers increasingly seek versatile professionals who can navigate diverse challenges and contribute to organizational growth. This program equips students with foundational management principles and fosters critical thinking, adaptability and ethical leadership.

• Finance Major: Employers across various industries recognize the need for professionals with strong financial acumen to navigate complex financial environments. The program gives students an understanding of the intricacies of financial markets, risk management and strategic financial planning.

• Marketing Major: Recognizing the evolving needs of employers, this program emphasizes traditional marketing principles and incorporates digital and data-driven approaches, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to excel in this rapidly growing and ever-changing field.

• Supply Chain Management Major: With six job openings for every one qualified graduate, careers in supply chain are in high demand and growth is only expected to continue, according to the Association for Supply Chain Management. This program provides students with a behind-the-scenes look at real-world problems.

• Digital Marketing Minor: This program gives students a deep background in both the art of persuasive communication and the science of data analytics, along with the skills needed to blend them into effective strategy. Upon completion, students will have attained HubSpot and/or Google certifications to supplement their liberal arts education.

• Project Management Minor: According to the Project Management Institute, an average of 2.2 million new project-oriented roles will be available each year through 2027. Students who complete the program will be eligible to take the Certified Associate in Project Management exam, a credential that will distinguish them in the job market.

• Data Analytics Minor: In an increasingly data-driven world, there is a growing demand for professionals who possess strong data analytics skills across various industries. This program provides students with the ability to add hard data skills to any major, enabling them to effectively gather, analyze, interpret and communicate data to make informed decisions.

• Game Development Concentration: Games and gaming have grown to a $185 billion industry across mobile, PC, console and VR/AR platforms. Centered on real-world lessons learned from industry partners, this new program equips students with the knowledge, skills and tools that are in highest demand for game developers including transferrable programming skills.

• Certificate in Arts Management: This program — at the intersection of the arts, business, and communication and media studies — provides students with the skills needed to pursue careers in nonprofit arts organizations, entrepreneurial endeavors or graduate studies in arts management.

“These new initiatives not only expand the horizons of our students, reflecting our commitment to providing students with cutting-edge and relevant academic programs, but also align seamlessly with our mission to address the evolving needs of the local community. By providing diverse and innovative learning opportunities, we empower our students to become catalysts for positive change, contributing meaningfully to the growth and well-being of our community,” said President Laurie Joyner. “This milestone reflects our dedication to shaping future leaders who are not only academically proficient but also deeply connected to the transformative impact they can make in the world.”

The supply chain management, digital marketing, project management and game development programs are available through a partnership with the (LCMC) and . The LCMC is a strategic partnership of private colleges and universities across the country collaborating with Rize Education to provide access to a cutting-edge curriculum that prepares students for successful careers.

April 5, 2024