Business Technology Administration, B.A.

Program Overview

The program combines business administration and technology, equipping students with practical knowledge in systems analysis, data science, project management, and more. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as business analysts, management consultants, and other IS professionals in various industries. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through projects and internships, ensuring students are ready for real-world challenges.

Program Outline

By focusing on the integration of computers, people, and organizational processes into efficient and effective systems, the program equips students with practical knowledge through diverse courses covering various aspects of business administration and technology.

Objectives:

The BTA program aims to:

• Prepare graduates for successful careers as managers, analysts, and administrators within IS organizations.
• Provide students with a solid foundation in business management principles, including human resources, project management, law, ethics, and operations management.
• Equip students with the necessary skills to analyze systems and research solutions for implementation in both small and large enterprises.
• Foster practical experience through hands-on projects in collaboration with companies.

Outline:

Program Content:

The BTA program covers a wide range of topics:

• Information Systems: This area forms the core of the program, covering topics like systems analysis, data science, human-computer interaction, business applications, project management, and integrating technology into business processes.
• Mathematics and Statistics: These areas provide students with the quantitative skills necessary for data analysis and decision-making within the IS field.
• Economics and English: These areas contribute to developing students' communication, writing, and economic understanding, crucial for navigating the business environment.
• Management: This area focuses on core management principles such as leadership, organizational behavior, and strategic decision-making.

Structure & Modules:

• Course Requirements:
• Information Systems (33 credits):
• 12 core courses, including IS 125 or IS 296, IS 202, IS 295, IS 300, IS 303, IS 320, IS 325, IS 350, IS 438, IS 440, and one additional upper-level IS course (excluding specific exceptions).
• Mathematics and Statistics (8 credits):
• MATH 155 and STAT 351.
• Economics and English (15 credits):
• ECON 101, ECON 102, ECON 121, ECON 122, and ENGL 393 or IS 369.
• Management (9 credits):
• MGMT 210, one additional upper-level MGMT elective (excluding specific exceptions), and MGMT 489.
• Delivery: The program is delivered through a combination of traditional lectures, seminars, case studies, group projects, and practical exercises.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework: Major assessments include exams, quizzes, assignments, projects, and presentations.
• Final Exams: Comprehensive exams test students' understanding of key concepts and their ability to apply knowledge.
• Writing-Intensive Requirement: Students need to complete a writing-intensive course that emphasizes written communication and critical thinking.

Assessment Criteria:

• Grades: Performance is primarily evaluated based on grades assigned to coursework, final exams, and other assessments.
• Minimum Grade Requirement: Students must achieve a minimum grade of 'C' in courses applied to the major.
• Additional Requirements: Specific courses or program components may have additional assessment criteria.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Interactive lectures: Professors engage students through active participation, discussions, and group activities.
• Case studies: Real-world examples are used to illustrate concepts and foster problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on projects: Students work on real-world projects in collaboration with companies, gaining practical experience and applying theoretical knowledge.
• Group work: Students develop teamwork and communication skills through collaborative projects and assignments.

Faculty:

• The BTA program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in various areas of information systems, management, and related fields.
• Faculty maintain active research programs, ensuring students are exposed to current trends and advancements in the field.

Unique Approaches:

• Emphasis on practical experience: The program prioritizes hands-on learning through projects and internships, preparing students for real-world challenges.
• Integration of technology: The program utilizes technology effectively in teaching and learning, reflecting the central role of technology in the IS field.

Careers:

Career Paths:

• The BTA program prepares graduates for diverse career paths within the IS field, including:
• Business Analyst
• Management Consultant
• Systems Analyst
• Data Scientist
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Security Analyst

Career Opportunities:

• Graduates can find employment in various industries, including:
• Financial services
• Healthcare
• Government
• Manufacturing
• Consulting firms
• Technology companies

Career Outcomes:

• Graduates of the BTA program are well-prepared for successful careers in the IS field, with strong starting salaries and excellent career advancement opportunities.

Other:

• University Requirements: Students must fulfill the minimum university requirements for an undergraduate baccalaureate degree, including the general education requirement, writing-intensive requirement, residence requirement, and a minimum GPA of 2.0.
• Minimum Credits: The program requires a minimum of 120 credits for completion.
• Upper-Level Credits: Students must complete at least 45 upper-level credits (300-400 level) within the major.
• Minimum GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required to graduate with a BTA degree.