Two business degrees add online option
Article By: Clark Leonard
A pair of degrees in the University of North Georgia's (UNG) Mike Cottrell College of Business (MCCB) will be available online for the first time in fall 2023. The Bachelor of Business Administration in management with a concentration in general management and the Bachelor of Applied Science in technology management are providing this option in addition to their in-person availability.
"We have been discussing the possibility of offering these online undergraduate business options for some time and are excited to have them available beginning this fall," Dr. Mary Gowan, MCCB dean, said. "We know there is a significant population of potential students who are working full time and want to either begin or complete a degree and need to be able to do so fully online. These options will enable them to do so."
With the workforce's needs changing, it made sense for UNG to adjust its offerings.
"As people are facing the changes in needed job skills, the online program gives them a chance to develop the knowledge and skills they need without having to attend classes on a physical campus," Dr. Mike Lavender, MCCB associate dean of undergraduate programs, said.
The management degree with a concentration in general management is now available on UNG's Cumming, Dahlonega and Gainesville campuses, along with the online option. In addition to the new online offering, the technology management degree can be completed in Dahlonega or Gainesville. MCCB leaders are aiming to provide maximum flexibility for students.
We know there is a significant population of potential students who are working full time and want to either begin or complete a degree and need to be able to do so fully online. These options will enable them to do so.
Dr. Mary Gowan
Mike Cottrell College of Business dean
The technology management degree makes it easier for students with applied associate degrees to transfer credits from technical colleges and complete their bachelor's degree.
"We need to give students options," Dr. Mohan Menon, department head of management and marketing, said. "Some students excel in an online environment. If they want to continue their education, no matter where they are, they can do it."
The management degree is already one of the most popular within the MCCB.
Now it has the chance to reach even more students online.
Lavender said some students had already been taking electives and other courses online to meet their needs.
"We've added an option for students who want to complete their degrees fully online. We have been able to identify these needs within the Mike Cottrell College of Business and externally," Lavender said. "We've become increasingly data-driven in identifying needs in the community and across the state. As a State Leadership Institution, we seek to fill these gaps to give students more education and training for their future."
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