The University of Northern Iowa provides a pathway for adults and students to obtain a bachelor’s degree in new and innovative ways. With support from UNI’s College of Business Administration, the Office of Online and Distance Education is recruiting students for a new Managing Business and Organizations Bachelor of Applied Science (MBO BAS) degree, tailored to working professionals to finish a four-year program. The program is also part of a partnership with Des Moines Area Community College’s (DMACC) urban campus in downtown Des Moines, offering degree completion options for those in the Des Moines area.  

The new program will allow busy working adults a flexible path to a four-year degree. The degree is delivered online, but expert advisors will provide strong individualized support to help students navigate.

“I work individually each semester with students to support and guide them through their programs,” said Linda Emery, the program coordinator for the MBO BAS program. “Each student is unique, so getting to know them as individuals is a key ingredient in supporting student success. The fact that the program is entirely online doesn’t diminish the importance of the student-centered, high-touch approach that UNI is known for.”

Del Shepard, an instructor in the MBO BAS program, agrees.

Providing quick responses to student questions is expected and a must,” he said. “I stay in touch with students via phone and email when I know they’re experiencing challenges, and provide feedback on a regular basis regarding their progress in a course. It’s very satisfying when I know that students will be able to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to their jobs.”

Del ShepardMBO BAS program Instructor

“Providing quick responses to student questions is expected and a must,” he said. “I stay in touch with students via phone and email when I know they’re experiencing challenges, and provide feedback on a regular basis regarding their progress in a course. It’s very satisfying when I know that students will be able to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to their jobs.”

Another positive of the initiative is the collaboration between the business college and UNI’s Office of Online and Distance Education. The university has a long history of providing education for adult learners, and this partnership expands UNI’s reach throughout Iowa.

UNI started recruiting for the MBO BAS degree program last year and has been building toward a robust cohort for spring and fall 2021. Many of the students interested in the program are working professionals with families. Topics covered in the program include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, business communications, entrepreneurship and more.

Click here to learn more about the MBO BAS degree program and upcoming webinars.