Bachelor of Science in Business Education - Secondary Program

at Northwest Missouri State University USA

The digital media major at Northwest is an interdisciplinary program involving an emphasis in computer science, graphic design or new media. The courses offer a cross-section of skills in design as well as written and visual communication. The major produces graduates who are proficient in art, photography, design, communication, computer programming and legal or ethical considerations as they relate to media.

Northwest offers computer labs equipped with open source software that prevents students from having to purchase additional software.

The first of its kind in Missouri and the region, Northwest’s Data Science major is an interdisciplinary program with four areas of emphasis: computer science, business, molecular biology and geographic information systems.

The business emphasis is designed for students interested in analyzing data and projecting the best option for a client. Faculty focus on ensuring students have tools to analyze big data and make proper business decisions.

Animal Science is the study of the production with livestock. Coursework focuses on three core areas: science, research and experiential learning. Science refers to students learning the anatomy, physiology, hormones and appropriate nutrition for livestock; research teaches students how to conduct research; and experiential learning provides student with opportunities for experience at the R.T. Wright Farm including annual procedures such as pregnancy tests on cows, castration and vaccination.

If students are interested in becoming a veterinarian, the Animal Science (Pre-Vet) program is an option. This is a rigorous program that emphasizes in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics and histology.

Wildlife ecology and conservation majors at Northwest study wildlife populations to understand patterns of distribution and abundance, and how these patterns may be used to manage and conserve populations. Faculty focus on ensuring students understand the natural history and ecology of mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians; gain the ability to conduct scientific experiments and surveys to monitor wildlife populations; learn techniques used to manage and conserve wildlife populations; and balance the needs of populations with people’s needs.

Earth Science Education majors at Northwest study the earth science curriculum and learn methods to applying it in the classroom. This major prepares students to teach all earth science courses at the secondary education level (grades 9-12).

Northwest’s Master of Science in Applied Computer Science is a 16-month program that offers a hands-on, professional education in today's high demand areas including big data, web and cross-platform mobile development, security and design of user experience. Applied development courses coupled with data, projects as well as software and IT management enable students to distinguish themselves and graduate ready to contribute in a competitive, global market.

Comprehensive communication majors emphasizing in public relations learn methods to understanding targeted audiences, and explaining products, services and missions to a specific audience. Faculty focus on oral, written and verbal communication skills as well as problem-solving skills to effectively meet the needs of management and the targeted audience.

All faculty members teaching public relations classes have professional experience, providing practical knowledge as well as professional contacts in the field.

Northwest’s Master of Science in Information Systems is a 16-month program that focuses on information systems analysis and design, cybersecurity, database design and development, human-computer interaction, financial decision making for information systems, business intelligence and management of IT projects. Additional coursework provides students with hands-on experience in today’s major platforms including Java, modern database engines and current project management tools.

A capstone Information Systems Development project is designed to expose the students to real world IT practices, enhancing their communication skills and preparing them to enter the job market.

Photography majors study and apply visual elements of art and develop an artistic direction through photography. Faculty focus on teaching students proper techniques and methods of creating and printing photographs digitally, non-traditionally and through a darkroom. Students spend many hours working in the studio gaining hands-on experiences and preparing projects for presentation.

The curriculum is designed to provide the additional education necessary for students with vocational or technical non-transferable certificate/degrees to earn a bachelor's degree.