Transforming A Technology Management Master's Degree Into An Innovative High Growth Inter-Disciplinary Program

As organizations develop their hiring plans in the areas of business, engineering, technology management, they are seeking a greater number of individuals with multi-disciplinary skills, competencies and backgrounds to provide them with maximum flexibility for employer assignments, greater diversity in the work force and more effective, people and technology skills. Most Schools of Engineering or Business today have not yet come to terms with the inter-disciplinary needs and requirements and have not developed programs focused on developing the types of skills and competencies that prepares graduates adequately for the challenging leadership and professional positions demanded by 21st century organizations. Based on extensive industry research and confirmed by the Center for Inter-disciplinary Business, Engineering and Technology Leadership, consisting of senior executives from over 20 small, medium, and large companies and organizations such as GE, IBM, UBS, Sikorsky Aircraft, Unilever, Bayer, Gartner, Infosys, Tata, and others, the University of Bridgeport has transformed its MS in Technology Management Program into the largest program of its kind in the Northeast with a remarkable three year enrollment growth over 1100%. This study describes the transition of the MS in Technology Management Degree Program from a traditionally oriented, narrowly focused engineering management program to a dynamic, flexible and innovative Technology Management program relevant for preparing students for the 21st century global workforce. It outlines the Management program relevant for preparing students for the 21st century global workforce. It outlines the program components, how it is synergized and leveraged with programs in business, engineering and other disciplines and how it prepares students to learn the skills, competencies and technologies required by organizations on a global basis.http://www.docsdrive.com/pdfs/medwelljournals/jeasci/2008/937-942.pd