Chippewa Valley Times

The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents has recently approved the introduction of five new academic programs at UW-Stout, Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University. The new programs, set to begin in the fall, include Bachelor of Science degrees in biology, chemistry, and physics, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in illustration, and a Master of Professional Studies in design, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.

According to Glendalí Rodríguez, the provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at UW-Stout, the university's faculty and staff have been commended for their dedication to expanding UW-Stout’s polytechnic offerings to meet student and workforce demands. Rodríguez expressed pride in the institution's commitment to adapting and growing its academic programs.

The approval of these new degrees is expected to meet the increasing demands in various industries and provide students with more focused career paths. For instance, the elevation of biology, chemistry, and physics concentrations to majors aims to cater to student and industry needs more effectively.

In the field of art, the new Bachelor of Fine Arts in illustration program is designed to equip graduates with skills in drawing, painting, and other areas of art and design, preparing them for careers in industries such as advertising, publishing, and entertainment. Rodríguez highlighted the practical applications of the illustration degree in problem-solving within the design industry.

UW-Stout’s focus on student success is evident in its strategic plan, FOCUS2030. The university aims to provide high-quality academic programs that respond to societal changes and industry demands, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their future careers.

The addition of these new academic programs underscores UW-Stout's commitment to offering diverse and relevant educational opportunities to its students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen fields.