College of Charleston Offers Advanced Manufacturing Programs
Among other new academic programs, the university will offer a new undergraduate certificate and a new degree concentration program in advanced manufacturing, beginning this fall.
The College of Charleston is launching both an undergraduate certificate and a Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) concentration in advanced manufacturing, starting in fall 2024.
An innovative collaboration between the School of Business and the School of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics, the new advanced manufacturing programs will equip students with cutting-edge skills and knowledge for the rapidly evolving field. It will also offer working adults the flexibility to further their education online.
“The launch of our advanced manufacturing programs marks an exciting time for the College of Charleston,” says Paul Schwager, dean of the College of Charleston School of Business. “Through these programs, we are not only ensuring our students are prepared to excel in an ever-changing industry, but we are also enhancing liberal arts education by embracing innovation.”
Advanced manufacturing – the use of innovative technologies and processes to improve product design, production and performance – is a sector experiencing significant growth. According to the South Carolina Department of Commerce, the state’s manufacturing industry is growing fast with an average growth rate of more than 17% over the last 10 years.
The College of Charleston worked with leading manufacturing companies in the region such as Cummins Turbo Technologies, ZF, Nucor Steel Berkeley, Volvo Cars and Mercedes Benz Vans to develop curricula that align with current and future industry needs.
“As the region’s economy continues to grow, it is important that we stay responsive to the needs of industry,” says Michelle Futrell, executive director of continuing and professional education for the College of Charleston School of Business. “Our new programs are thoughtfully designed to address those needs while allowing adult learners to meet their goals.”
Certificate in Advanced Manufacturing: The undergraduate certificate in advanced manufacturing offers students foundational knowledge and practical skills in areas including robotics, machine learning, artificial intelligence and quality control. Because it is a stackable credential, the certificate is ideal for students looking to enhance their employability, gain a competitive edge in the job market and boost their earning potential.
“We are proud to offer a certificate in advanced manufacturing at the College of Charleston. It is a strategic decision, especially considering the growth of industries in the Tri-County area,” says Narayanan Kuthirummal, interim dean of the School of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics.
Bachelor of Professional Studies Concentration in Advanced Manufacturing: The new concentration in advanced manufacturing adds to the College of Charleston BPS program’s strong portfolio of in-demand focus areas that working adults can pursue to earn their bachelor’s degrees. It provides fundamental coursework in computer programming and engineering project design specifically for manufacturing settings. The program guarantees South Carolina technical college graduates with an associate of arts or an associate of science degree, at least 60 transfer credit hours, junior class status and the ability to waive program prerequisites.
To learn more about the programs, including admission requirements, career prospects and application deadlines, visit go.charleston.edu/bps.
These are just a couple of the College’s new academic offerings this year. Additional new majors and minors launching for the 2024-25 academic year include:
