About the Accelerated WEST to MBA Program

The Accelerated Master Program (AMP) provides an opportunity for high-achieving students to work concurrently on the Bachelor of Arts in Women’s and Ethnic Studies (BA WEST) and Master of Business Administration (MBA). On average, the program takes 5 to 6 years to complete.

Focus of Study

The rationale for this AMP program is based on job market demand for business leaders with deep and comprehensive understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). This market demand includes, but is not limited to a recent attention for Chief Diversity Officers (CDOs), e.g. “Demand for Chief Diversity Officers Is High. So Is Turnover,” WSJ 2020 and “Companies scramble to hire diversity officers, but progress is slow,” LA Times, 2021. The demand for MBA graduates with DEI expertise is reflected in a range of positions, not just CDOs but throughout organizations as diversity directors, diversity program managers, diversity operations managers, etc. The current gap in graduates with this combination of skills and knowledge has been recognized by a few MBA programs nationally who are moving quickly to address this gap by launching DEI tracks. This program allows highly motivated UCCS students to complete and undergraduate degree focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as the MBA degree in 5 to 6 years.

Degree Requirements

To enroll in this program, students must meet with the MBA Program Director and submit an intent form prior to completing courses, which will be applied to the B.A. in WEST to MBA.

Students interested in this program should review the program requirements as well as the advising guide carefully.

Specialization Track Options

Students pursuing the accelerated WEST BA to MBA must complete the following foundational courses. Each of these count toward the BA as well as fulfilling general education requirements:

• ACCT 2010

• ACCT 2020

• QUAN 2010