Utah Tech University announced it will launch 19 new academic programs this fall, ranging from artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to music and dance, as the institution seeks to align its curriculum with regional workforce demands. The expansion comes amid national legislative focus on modernizing apprenticeship models to address a rapidly changing labor market.
New AI and Machine Learning Programs
The new offerings at Utah Tech University emphasize hands-on learning and streamlined completion paths for students. The university's expansion includes significant investments in the technology sector, such as a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. This program allows students to gain practical experience building end-to-end machine learning pipelines.
Advanced Artificial Intelligence Master's Degree
Additionally, the university is introducing a Master of Artificial Intelligence, which focuses on computer vision, generative AI, natural language processing, and intelligent agents. To accommodate working professionals, this master's program is structured for students to take five credits per semester across the fall, spring, and summer terms.
Cybersecurity Training and Infrastructure Protection
In the realm of cybersecurity, Utah Tech is adding a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity to prepare students for roles in network security engineering, information security, and cybersecurity analyzation. The university is also introducing a Certificate in Cybersecurity as a shorter alternative, along with a Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure Certificate designed to teach the protection of power plants, water systems, and manufacturing facilities from cyberattacks.
Information Technology and Biotechnology Expansions
Other technical expansions include a Bachelor of Applied Studies in Information Technology, which utilizes stackable credentials like a 16-credit Information Technology Certificate. The university is also moving into biotechnology with a new Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and a Master of Science in Genomics, the latter of which combines bioinformatics, data science, and molecular biology.
National Focus on Workforce Adaptability
The university's push for industry-aligned education mirrors broader discussions occurring in Washington, D.C., regarding workforce adaptability. On June 24, 2026, Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee Chairman Burgess Owens (R-UT) delivered a statement at a hearing titled "Workforce Rewilired: Modern Apprenticeships for a Modern Economy."
Modernizing Apprenticeships for New Economies
During the hearing, Owens noted that researchers estimate 40 percent of the skills required for today's jobs will change over the next decade. He emphasized that the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence is intensifying the need for workers to upskill and reskill throughout their careers.
Chairman Owens highlighted that while apprenticeships were historically linked to skilled trades, modern models are expanding into information technology, cybersecurity, and healthcare. He advocated for apprenticeship degree programs that integrate classroom instruction with paid, structured on-the-job learning, allowing individuals to earn academic credentials while gaining real-world experience.
Owens also noted that the Trump administration has made apprenticeship expansion a workforce priority through the Department of Labor, specifically supporting growth in emerging fields via an AI apprenticeship portal.
Utah Tech's new programs also extend into the arts and professional services. The university is adding an Associate of Arts/Associate of Science in Dance, as well as an Associate of Arts/Associate of Science in Music and a Music Composition Certificate. In the business sector, the institution is introducing two marketing certificate programs: the Small Business Marketing Communication Certificate and the Digital Marketing Certificate.
For students pursuing accounting, the university is launching a Bachelor of Applied Studies in Accounting/Master of Accountancy dual program. This pathway allows students to earn both degrees within four years by utilizing four bridge courses that connect undergraduate study with graduate-level content, specifically designed to prepare students for CPA licensure.
Chris Guymon, Utah Tech’s interim provost and vice president of academic affairs, stated that the university is committed to collaborating with industry leaders to ensure students are equipped with the technical skills needed to succeed from their first day on the job.
Other new offerings at the university include a Bachelor of Arts in Politics, Policy, and Law, a minor and emphasis in nutrition, and a Bachelor of Applied Practice in Individualized Studies designed for adult learners.
