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Upper Iowa University Expands Opportunities with Four New Career-Focused Academic Programs

Fayette, IA (07/01/2026) — Upper Iowa University is continuing its investment in workforce-ready education with the launch of four new academic offerings designed to prepare students for careers in high-demand industries.

Beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year, UIU will introduce bachelor's degrees in Digital Marketing, Project Management, and Public Health, along with a new Business Analytics emphasis within its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.

The additions are the latest step in the university's ongoing academic transformation under its Impact 2028 Strategic Plan, which focuses on expanding access, increasing flexibility, and aligning programs with evolving workforce needs.

"These new programs represent our continued commitment to providing students with flexible, relevant, and career-focused educational opportunities," said Dr. Billie Cowley, Vice President for Academic Affairs. "As workforce needs continue to evolve, Upper Iowa University is evolving alongside them by offering programs that combine practical skills, emerging technologies, and real-world application."

Preparing Students for Tomorrow's Careers

Launching in Fall 2026, the new offerings will equip students with skills sought by employers across a variety of industries.

Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing

Students will prepare for careers in social media strategy, digital advertising, search engine optimization, content development, analytics, and brand management.

Bachelor of Science in Project Management

The program develops leadership, organizational, and operational skills applicable across business, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, construction, and nonprofit organizations.

Bachelor of Science in Public Health

Students will learn to improve community health through disease prevention, health education, healthcare systems, and population wellness.

MBA Emphasis in Business Analytics

Building on the success of UIU's undergraduate Business Analytics program, the new MBA emphasis prepares graduate students with advanced skills in data analysis, visualization, predictive modeling, and strategic decision-making.

Building on a Foundation of Innovation

The new programs build on several academic initiatives introduced over the past two years, including the university's innovative 90-credit Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-one of the few programs of its kind designed to help students earn a bachelor's degree more efficiently while reducing both time and tuition costs.

The innovative bachelor's degree pairs with UIU's MBA program, allowing motivated students to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as four years.

During the 2025-2026 academic year, the university also introduced bachelor's degrees in Business Analytics and Cybersecurity, along with MBA emphases in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, expanding opportunities for students pursuing technology-driven careers.

"This is not about adding programs for the sake of growth," Cowley said. "Each new offering is intentionally designed to create academic pathways that align with employer demand and help students graduate with a competitive advantage."

The new programs reflect Upper Iowa University's broader commitment to creating affordable, flexible educational pathways for both traditional and adult learners while responding to the changing needs of today's workforce.

"Students today are looking for programs that provide flexibility, affordability, and a clear return on their educational investment," said President & CFO Kathy Franken. "These new offerings, combined with the innovations we've introduced over the past two years, demonstrate Upper Iowa University's commitment to meeting students where they are while preparing them for where they want to go."

About Upper Iowa University

Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, nonprofit institution dedicated to offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 5,700 students both nationally and internationally. Located in Fayette, Iowa, the university extends its reach beyond its main campus to educational centers across the U.S., demonstrating its role as a recognized innovator in providing accredited, affordable, and quality academic programs. Upper Iowa University prides itself on its flexible, multiple delivery systems, which include online and self-paced degree options, catering to the varied needs of its student body.

With a focus on developing leaders and lifelong learners, Upper Iowa University is committed to empowering students by providing an inclusive, supportive learning environment. Here, diverse perspectives are valued, and academic excellence is not just a goal but a standard. This approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to their communities and professions.

For more information, visit www.uiu.edu.

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