UW-Oshkosh’s future College of Business, Arts and Communications, just months after its launch, received two big boosts from the Wisconsin Board of Regents.
A modernized, accessible Music Hall facility and a new bachelor’s degree program in business analytics will move forward in 2025, after Regents approved UWO’s proposals at its Dec. 5-6 meetings in Madison.
Music hall
A $2.8 million state-funded project will renovate Music Hall facilities to comply with accessibility guidelines and acoustic performance features that meet hearing health and safety requirements. The project will provide new upper and lower level vestibules as well as new wheelchair seating to meet current accessibility standards.
The renovations will also modify and improve ventilation systems, tiered seating configurations, as well as providing new handrails and walkway and aisle lighting, acoustic finishes and features, and updated seating throughout the whole hall. New educational technologies will be part of the project, including audio/video and recording systems; electronically controlled data projection displays/controls and new lighting controls.
“Students are excited about the improvements,” said Nathan Krueger, associate professor of music and chair of the music department. “All students, majors and non-majors, who participate in ensembles will benefit from experiencing a premier acoustic environment that will enrich their artistic experience. The modifications will be adaptable to different types of setups so that everything from small chamber groups to amplified jazz groups can perform in a space suited to their sound.
Construction is expected to begin in June 2025 and be largely completed by the end of the year.
Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Analytics
A new bachelor’s degree program in business analytics elevates the existing business analytics certificate and minor options at UWO.
The program will train students in basic statistical analysis, spreadsheet analysis, data visualization skills, and several other skills, including basic knowledge of Python programming and database management. Students will learn to communicate analytical interpretations to peers and business managers.
UWO student interest in business analytics remained strong across the certificate and minor and students indicated they would choose a major in business analytics if given the opportunity, recognizing that they would be even better placed to enter the job market.
The job market within 100 miles of UWO has more than 200 jobs requiring data analysis skills and more than 300 high-paying jobs requiring the skills available statewide.
UWO’s new bachelor’s degree program will be available for the fall 2025 semester.
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