Today, at the Board of Regents meeting, the UW System presented new programs it has added during the past year, highlighting those in the STEM, healthcare and entrepreneurship fields. UW System graduates are an ongoing source of support for Wisconsin’s economy, and these additions in the academic program array are closely tied to Wisconsin’s workforce needs.
“Our institutions produce well-rounded individuals who contribute to our society and economy – they are informed, engaged citizens,” says UW System President Ray Cross. “As we set forth in our 2020FWD strategic framework, we are committed to preparing our graduates with critical thinking and creative problem solving skills. It is also vitally important that we provide degree programs in the UW System that are aligned with the projected highest growth occupations in Wisconsin.”
Nationally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows significant projected growth for positions in the STEM and healthcare industries from 2014-2024. Below are examples of job growth:
Projected Growth Between 2014-2024Requires Bachelor’s Degree or Higher |
|
| Audiologist | 28.6% |
| Biomedical engineer | 23.1% |
| Forensic science technician | 26.6% |
| Operations research analyst | 30.2% |
| Nurse practitioner | 35.2% |
| Personal financial advisor | 29.6% |
| Physical therapist | 34.0% |
| Physician assistant | 30.4% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Occupational Outlook 2014-2024
Further, according to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development data, many of Wisconsin’s top 25 highest growth occupations will require a post-secondary degree.
Wisconsin’s 25 High-Growth Occupations 2014-2024Requiring Post-Secondary Degree |
|
| #1 Operations Research Analysts | #17 Market Research Analysts |
| #4 Computer Systems Analysts | #18 Software Developers |
| #5 Personal Financial Advisors | #20 Chemist |
| #9 Web Developers | #21 Nurse Practitioners |
| #11 Biochemists & Biophysicists | #22 Actuaries |
| #16 Real Estate Brokers | |
| Source: WI DWD Wisconsin’s WORKnet | |
Twenty additional UW System degree programs were authorized in 2016, and these programs are aligned with state and national trends and demand.
20 UW System Degree Programs Authorized In 2016 |
|||||
STEM |
Health Care |
Entrepreneurial & Business |
Education |
Social Sciences |
Agriculture |
| Data Analytics
Computer Science
Microbiology
Natural Resources
Information Science and Technology |
Health and Wellness Management
Nursing (accelerated)
Clinical Nutrition
Athletic Training (2) |
Flex degree in Business
Sports management |
Early Childhood
Special Education
Secondary Education
STEM Middle Childhood-Early Adolescence |
Geospatial Analysis and Technology
Social Work
Urban Studies |
Dairy Science |
The UW System’s 2020FWD strategic framework builds on the feedback heard at listening sessions around the state to build stronger connections between the UW and the state’s communities and businesses. It is focused on the University’s longstanding commitment to strengthen Wisconsin’s economy, develop the workforce of tomorrow, and keep college affordable for students and families.