UW-Oshkosh’s future College of Business, Arts and Communications, just months away from launch, has received two major boosts from the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents.
A modernized and accessible Music Hall facility and a new bachelor’s degree program in business analytics will move forward in 2025, after Regents approved the UWO proposals at their Dec. 5-6 meetings in Madison.
Music Hall
A $2.8 million state-funded project will renovate the Music Hall facility to meet accessibility guidelines and acoustic performance features that meet hearing health and safety requirements. The project will provide new lobby areas on both the upper and lower levels and new wheelchair spaces to meet current accessibility standards.
The renovations will also modify and enhance ventilation systems, tiered seating configurations, as well as provide new handrails and corridor/walkway lighting, acoustic finishes and upgraded seating features throughout the hall. New instructional technology will be part of the project, including audio/video and recording systems; electronically controlled data projection screens/controls and new lighting controls.
“Students are excited about the upgrades,” said Nathan Krueger, associate professor of music and chair of the music department. “All students, both majors and non-majors participating in the ensemble, will get the experience of a first class acoustic environment that will enrich their artistic experience. The modifications will be adjustable to different types of setups so that everything from the small chamber groups to amplified jazz groups can perform in a space suited to their sound.”
Construction is expected to begin in June 2025, with substantial completion by the end of the year.
Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Analytics
A new bachelor’s 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 many other skills, including basic Python programming knowledge and database management. Students learn how to communicate analytical interpretations to peers and managers in business.
The interest of UWO students in business analytics remained strong in the certificate and minor and students indicated that they would have chosen a major in business analytics if it gave them the ‘opportunities, recognizing that they will be even better positioned to enter the labor market.
The job market within 100 miles of UWO shows more than 200 jobs that require data analysis skills and more than 300 paid jobs that require the skills available across the state.
The new UWO bachelor’s program will be available for the fall semester 2025.
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