BS in Applied Project Design and Analysis

With critical thinking, collaborative problem solving, and communication as the top skills identified by industries globally, the Bachelor of Science in Applied Project Design and Analysis (APDA) degree program combines theoretical knowledge with project-based learning to help students solve real-world problems, tackle complex projects, and make data-driven decisions across various industries. The program integrates coursework from multiple disciplines, including business, data analytics, design thinking, and communication, to develop students' skills in project management, data analysis, and problem-solving.

This program integrates coursework from business and communication studies to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of:

Project Management
Students focus on project management, collaborative thinking, communication, problem analysis, and leadership. They learn how to use the tools and techniques common in the workplace to lead teams, balance time and budget constraints, analyze risks, and accomplish key tasks toward organizational goals. The courses within the project management concentration offer students the required number of contact hours and concepts of project management to apply for the Project Management Institute's Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification.
Design Thinking
Students learn about the design thinking frameworks, design principles with applications to navigate complex, real-world problems via industry-sponsored projects. Student learning is focused on using design to differentiate brands, optimize processes, and align business strategies with user needs, leading to more effective and marketable outcomes. Design courses are complemented with hands on prototyping, and evaluation of design elements across different users, business landscapes, and other customer parameters.
Analysis
Students are taught to practice applied probability (how likely something is to happen) and simple statistics to identify the importance of the information, forecasting, and useful data analytics. They learn to use data to make informed business decisions, with a focus on data visualization, presentation, and modeling. The students are exposed to a variety of modern data tools and techniques such as SAS and Tableau. In addition, courses within the analysis concentration provide conceptual and practical support to students to prepare for the professional certificates such as the Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel Associate Certificate.
Real-world Industry Experience
  • Site visits: Throughout the duration of the program, APDA students undertake several site visits as part of their industry sponsored semester project or as a requirement for a specific course. Site visits also help students to develop professional networks and exposes them to different work environments. Students are afforded an opportunity to learn about types of activities performed in different jobs, employment opportunities, and what a company or organization looks for in job candidates. University transportation is provided but not mandatory.  
  • Summer-Internship Opportunities
  • Study abroad programs: Multiple study abroad opportunities are offered every summer. The 4-8 week study abroad programs are organized by the Department of Multidisciplinary Innovation (DMI) faculty members, and cover a variety of focused learning objectives from different disciplines, including architectural design, art history, and fermentation science.

Continuous Innovation

In this program, you'll benefit from an intentionally structured course schedule that combines required coursework and industry-sponsored projects, all designed to prepare you for your career. Unique courses include: 

  • Professional Communication
  • Applied Project Analytics
  • Team Development
  • Problem Analysis

You will also master the tools used by leading companies, such as Statistical Analysis System (SAS), Slack, and Tableau, ensuring you are job-ready from day one. The program's curriculum equips students to pursue certifications such as the Project Management Institute's Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) and the Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel Associate.

Career Opportunities

With industry engagement at the core of the curriculum, you'll make valuable connections while you earn your bachelor's degree. You'll also gain powerful professional partnerships both inside and outside the classroom and gain lifelong mentors along with unbeatable employable skills.

With this degree in hand, you'll be ready for leadership roles like the following:

  • Brand manager
  • Business analyst
  • Environmental resource manager
  • Financial analyst
  • Marketing manager
  • Project manager (business, non-profit and government)
  • Social media marketer