Transforming a Technology Management Master’s Degree Curriculum into a Successful Inter-Disciplinary Program for the 21st Century Needs of Global Organizations
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Authors
Selig, Gad J.
Issue Date
2008-03
Type
Article
Language
en_US
Keywords
Engineering education , Technology management , Inter-disciplinary
Alternative Title
Abstract
As organizations develop their hiring plans in the areas of business, engineering technology and management, they are seeking a greater number of individuals with multi-disciplinary skills, competencies and backgrounds to provide them with maximum flexibility for employer assignments, greater diversity in the work force and more effective employees with business, people and technology backgrounds. Most Schools of Engineering today have not yet come to terms with these inter-disciplinary requirements and have not developed programs focused on providing these types of programs that prepare graduates for these kinds of challenges and opportunities. Based on extensive industry research and confirmed by the “Center for Inter-disciplinary Business, Engineering and Technology Leadership,” consisting of senior executives from over 20 small , medium and large companies and organizations such as GE, UBS, Sikorsky Aircraft, Unilever, Deutsche Bank, Bayer, Gartner and others, the University of Bridgeport has transformed its MS in Technology Management into the largest program of its kind in the Northeast with a remarkable two & half year enrollment growth of over 540%. This paper describes the transformation of the MS in Technology Management Degree Program from a traditionally oriented, narrowly focused engineering management program to a dynamic, flexible and innovative Technology Management program relevant for preparing students for the 21st century workforce. It outlines the program components, how it is synergized and leveraged with programs in business, engineering and other disciplines and how it prepares students to learn the skills, competencies and technologies required by organizations on a global basis. The challenges, growth and results are discussed.
Description
© ASEE 2008
Citation
Publisher
ASEE