August 15, 2018
Kansas State University launches new computer science and Master of Business Administration joint degree program
Submitted by Brent Fritzemeier
A new dual degree program designed by Kansas State University will allow students to concurrently earn both their Bachelor of Science in computer science and Master of Business Administration degrees.
The computer science/MBA dual degree program will allow students to combine technical IT skills with advanced business knowledge to drive leadership and decision-making in the modern technological business environment.
"Over the past decade, computer science has become integral to almost all types of businesses, and the core business of many new tech companies," said Scott DeLoach, department head of computer science. "Our students understand this and have been looking for opportunities for more business education. This program will make gaining that education much easier. I believe this partnership between the department of computer science and the College of Business has a lot of strategic value, and we are making plans for even more combined programs in the near future."
According to the industry leaders that make up both department's advisory councils, the advanced business technology skills acquired in this program will provide graduates with broad marketability and opportunities for career flexibility. Emphasis is given to blending classroom theory with applied projects, like internships or MBA capstone projects, to provide an unparalleled educational experience.
The joint degree program requires 147 credit hours — 120 hours for the bachelor of science in computer science, plus 27 hours in MBA coursework. Students could receive two degrees in five to five-and-half years. Undergraduate students would begin to take business courses in their senior year, taking an additional two to three more semesters to complete the MBA program.
"This is clearly a win-win academic partnership between the department of computer science and the College of Business Administration," said Chwen Sheu, associate dean for academic programs. "Including computer science students with a sound technical background in the MBA program will definitely improve the quality of the program, and the student will greatly benefit from the application-oriented business curriculum. We are excited about this new partnership and believe it will attract high-quality students to both programs."
Learn more about the new program online or contact Sheryl Cornell, cornell@k-state.edu, or Kelly Bruna, kellybruna5@k-state.edu, at 785-532-6350.