With a focus on hands-on learning, preparing graduates to fulfill regional workforce demands and streamlined completion, Utah Tech University is offering 19 new academic programs this fall.
“As a comprehensive polytechnic institution, Utah Tech University is committed to collaborating closely with our community and industry leaders to ensure we are equipping the leaders of tomorrow with the knowledge, technical skill and experience they need to succeed starting on day one of their careers,” Chris Guymon, Utah Tech’s interim provost and vice president of academic affairs, said. “We are confident these new programs will not only provide students with meaningful hands-on learning experiences but will also meet industry needs.”
Expanding Utah Tech’s graduate program offerings, the institution is adding a Master of Science in Genomics that combines molecular biology, bioinformatics and data science with computational analysis and hands-on research. This industry-aligned program prepares graduates for roles in biotechnology, healthcare, research and emerging areas of precision medicine by offering two specialized pathways. The Bioinformatics pathway focuses on computational analysis and data-driven research while the Functional Genomics pathway emphasizes laboratory-based experimentation and scientific discovery.
Offering students another pathway into a biotechnology career, Utah Tech is adding a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology that integrates foundational courses in biology and chemistry with advanced coursework, labs and internships. Additionally, students can apply already-earned associate degrees and specialized biotech certificates to the program, and students who have completed Dixie Technical College’s biotech certificate can transfer directly into UT’s associate program.
Designed for full-time students and working professionals alike, the Laboratory Quality Assurance and Quality Control Certificate prepares graduates for careers in highly regulated scientific, clinical and industrial laboratories by offering hands-on experience with modern laboratory and data systems as well as inventory control systems, all while teaching Good Laboratory Practices and regulatory documentation standards.
In the tech space, Utah Tech is adding a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in which students gain practical experience in building end-to-end machine learning pipelines. This certificate program provides a seamless transition and meets the requirements for the first 15 credits of another new program, the Master of Artificial Intelligence, which emphasizes hands-on learning in computer vision, natural language processing, intelligent agents and generative AI. Additionally, the program is structured for working professionals, as students take five credits per semester across the fall, spring, and summer semesters, allowing them to progress steadily while balancing full-time employment.
Another new tech program, the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity prepares students for careers in information security, security consultation, cybersecurity analyzation and network security engineering. Students develop skills to mitigate security threats, ensuring the confidentiality and availability of information across various organizational settings. For students looking for a shorter program to prepare for the field, Utah Tech is also adding a Certificate in Cybersecurity. Additionally, the new Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure Certificate focuses on protecting systems and infrastructure such as power plants, water systems and manufacturing facilities from cyberattacks.
For those looking for a workforce-focused pathway to quickly prepare for an entry- to mid-level IT career, Utah Tech is adding a Bachelor of Applied Studies in Information Technology. This terminal, 90-credit degree combines coursework in computer systems, networking, cybersecurity, programming and cloud technologies with hands-on, industry-aligned training. Additionally, the program features stackable credentials that recognize achievement along the way, including the 16-credit Information Technology Certificate and the Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology.
Another program that offers stackable credits is Utah Tech’s new Bachelor of Applied Studies in Accounting/Master of Accountancy dual program. This workforce-focused pathway prepares students for immediate employment by emphasizing hands-on learning in financial and managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, data analytics and accounting information systems. The program allows students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree within four years by including four bridge courses that connect upper-division undergraduate study with graduate-level accounting content, providing the academic preparation needed for CPA licensure and other professional exams.
The university is also offering two different marketing certificate programs. Created for professionals looking to build a business around their expertise, UT’s Small Business Marketing Communication Certificate blends strategic thinking with compelling storytelling. Students learn to integrate branding, digital media and data-driven decision-making into impactful campaigns tailored to the unique needs of small businesses. Meanwhile, the Digital Marketing Certificate prepares individuals for marketing and other related business careers by teaching them how to create strategic campaigns, develop content that aligns with brand voice, use data to measure strategies’ effectiveness and integrate emerging technologies and tools into campaigns.
Preparing students to think critically, engage civilly and gain the skill of effective communication, UT’s new Bachelor of Arts in Politics, Policy, and Law will feature an applied approach to the study of public law, policy and politics. Students will build the knowledge and skills to navigate and influence the institutions that shape both local and global communities.
In the arts, Utah Tech is adding two new associate degrees and a certificate starting this fall. The Associate of Arts/Associate of Science in Dance prepares students to perform with artistry and technical competency as well as compose original works to prepare for a career in the dance field. Meanwhile, the Associate of Arts/Associate of Science in Music blends musicianship with technology-infused training to prepare students to transfer into bachelor’s programs or pursue entry-level roles in the creative and performing arts sector. The Music Composition Certificate prepares students to create original compositions and arrangements in a variety of styles using a variety of techniques, organize performances of their music and work effectively with performers and technicians.
Offering students flexibility, Utah Tech’s new Bachelor of Applied Practice in Individualized Studies is ideal for adult learners, as students can earn a bachelor’s degree in three years and customize their studies across disciplines to meet specific post-graduate goals. Additionally, the university is adding a minor and emphasis in nutrition.
With more than 300 academic programs, Utah Tech University offers hands-on learning experiences across all disciplines – humanities, arts, education, health sciences, business and STEM. At UT, students make, create and innovate in the classroom and online while gaining real-world active learning experiences through internships, clinical experiences, undergraduate research, industry partnerships and service learning. For more information, visit academics.utahtech.edu.