To fill workforce and student needs, Utah Tech University is adding six new academic programs this fall.

“As a comprehensive polytechnic university, Utah Tech constantly surveys employers’ needs and not only adds programs that meet our region’s workforce demands, but also ensures all our programs teach current best practices that prepare our students to graduate career ready,” Michael Lacourse, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Utah Tech, said.

Adding two graduate-level programs to the university’s offerings, Utah Tech’s College of Science, Engineering & Technology is launching master’s degrees in software development and user experience design.

The master’s in software development uses a hands-on approach to equip students with industry-ready competencies in coding, problem-solving and collaboration. The program covers everything from programming fundamentals to modern app development practices and is perfect for professionals looking for a career change. As a pivot degree, the master’s in software development doesn’t require a background or degree in coding or IT to apply.

The master’s in user experience design prepares students for UI/UX professional work by teaching skills in research, analysis, design and communication. The user experience design program works closely with the software development program to prepare students to contribute to both design and code.

Both degrees are flexible programs, allowing students either a face-to-face or remote experience. Each program requires 30 credits distributed across four semesters, enabling students to complete the program in 16 months. The priority application deadline for both programs is June 30. To apply for the Master of Software Development program, visit computing.utahtech.edu/master-of-software-development or to apply for the Master of User Experience Design degree, visit design.utahtech.edu/master-of-ux-design.

Across campus, the College of Education is adding a bachelor’s degree in special education. Open to students who have completed the prerequisite general education courses, the special education program includes coursework and teaching experiences that prepare graduates for a Utah Level I Educator License and Mild/Moderate Disabilities Certification in grades K-12. Students in the program will learn practices designed for inclusive settings, spend significant time in actual classrooms and receive comprehensive mentoring.

Additionally, the program was awarded $41,400 through the Special Education Personnel Preparation Funding Grant. This money will be used to provide full-tuition scholarships for the first cohort of students for the two years they are in the program. Apply for UT’s special education program at education.utahtech.edu/special-education.

For students interested in healthcare, Utah Tech’s College of Health Sciences is also offering three new programs this fall.

The Registered Respiratory Therapist to Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy degree completion program is designed for practicing respiratory therapists who have associate degrees and seek to earn a bachelor’s degree. The program is entirely online, allowing students to complete a bachelor’s degree while working. The National Board of Respiratory Care is awarding Utah Tech $10,000 for scholarships for students in both the new degree completion program as well as UT’s existing traditional entry-level bachelor’s program for students new to respiratory therapy. Apply for the degree completion program at health.utahtech.edu/respiratory-therapy.

Utah Tech is also adding a master’s degree in healthcare administration to prepare graduates for administrative roles in the healthcare industry, whether it be in private or public sectors. As part of this online program, students gain practical experience through internships, study abroad and research initiatives. Additionally, the program awards micro-credentials at significant milestones to acknowledge students’ progress and achievements. Applications are due Aug. 1 and can be submitted at health.utahtech.edu/masters-of-health-administration.

Additionally, UT will offer its first doctoral program this fall, a clinical doctorate in occupational therapy. UT’s Occupational Therapy program will accept students with bachelor’s degrees and prepare them to use therapeutic interventions to help clients adapt to injury, illness or disability. Students participate in a variety of learning activities and training opportunities to learn how to help clients who are limited by physical, cognitive, psychosocial, developmental and environmental conditions maximize their independence and maintain optimum health and well-being. The deadline to apply is May 1 and applications can be submitted at health.utahtech.edu/occupational-therapy-doctorate.

“Utah Tech University’s academic programs include active, hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students to graduate career ready,” Lacourse said. “Research proves that college-educated individuals experience greater incomes, economic stability and quality of life. All of our programs are now accepting applications, making today the perfect time to start working for a better tomorrow.”

In total, Utah Tech University offers more than 275 academic programs. Learn about all the university’s academic options at academics.utahtech.edu.