Utah Tech University to offer 19 new academic programs this fall

ST. GEORGE — Utah Tech University is one of the Beehive State’s fastest and most consistent growing institutions, with enrollment increasing by almost 60% from 2013 to over 13,000 students today.

Accounting for that growth means offering more diverse educational options for students, with 60% of the school’s academic programming developed within the past seven years.

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That number is set to increase as the university introduced 19 new academic programs on Tuesday to be offered for the first time during the fall 2026 semester.

“As a comprehensive polytechnic institution, Utah Tech University is committed to collaborating closely with our community and industry leaders to ensure we are equipping the leaders of tomorrow with the knowledge, technical skill and experience they need to succeed starting on day one of their careers,” Chris Guymon, Utah Tech’s interim provost and vice president of academic affairs, said in a statement. “We are confident these new programs will not only provide students with meaningful hands-on learning experiences but will also meet industry needs.”

Many of the 19 new programs aim to fulfill regional workforce demands, and unsurprisingly, there’s a strong emphasis on tech.

Here’s a closer look at the new programs.

Tech and AI

After being selected as Utah Tech’s 19th president in 2025, Shane Smeed said he was drawn to the school’s polytechnic mission.

“I believe that it most readily prepares our graduates to meet the workforce needs,” Smeed told the Deseret News.

In the tech space, the university added a post-baccalaureate certificate in applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, where students will gain practical experience building end-to-end machine learning pipelines.

The certificate program will allow students to transition seamlessly and meet the requirements for the first 15 credits of another new program this fall, the Master of Artificial Intelligence, which emphasizes hands-on learning in computer vision, natural language processing, intelligent agents and generative AI.

These AI pathways are designed for working professionals and structured around taking five credits per semester across the fall, spring, and summer semesters, allowing students to progress while also balancing full-time employment.

Additionally, the school is launching a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program that will prepare students for careers in information security, security consulting, cybersecurity analysis and network security engineering.

“Students develop skills to mitigate security threats, ensuring the confidentiality and availability of information across various organizational settings,” said a release from the university.

And for those looking for more of a crash course, Utah Tech is adding a Certificate in Cybersecurity, as well as a Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure Certificate, which focuses on protecting systems and infrastructure such as power plants, water systems and manufacturing facilities from cyberattacks.

The university is also rolling out a workforce-focused pathway to prepare students for entry-to mid-level careers in information technology through the new Bachelor of Applied Studies in Information Technology.

“This terminal, 90-credit degree combines coursework in computer systems, networking, cybersecurity, programming and cloud technologies with hands-on, industry-aligned training,” said a release from the university. “Additionally, the program features stackable credentials that recognize achievement along the way, including the 16-credit Information Technology Certificate and the Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology.”

Business

Stackable credits aren’t exclusive to the tech program additions, either, as Utah Tech is also launching a new Bachelor of Applied Studies in Accounting/Master of Accountancy dual program.

The program allows students to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree within just four years by including four bridge courses that connect upper-division undergraduate study with graduate-level accounting content, providing the academic preparation needed for CPA licensure and other professional exams.

Two different marketing certificate programs will also be available, created for professionals looking to build a business around their existing expertise.

Through the Small Business Marketing Communication Certificate, students will blend strategic thinking with storytelling, learning to “integrate branding, digital media and data-driven decision-making into impactful campaigns tailored to the unique needs of small businesses,” said a release from the university.

A Digital Marketing Certificate will also be offered to prepare individuals for marketing and other related business careers.

Arts

In the arts realm, Utah Tech added a trio of new offerings.

Two new associate degrees — Associate of Arts/Associate of Science in Dance and Associate of Arts/Associate of Science in Music — will prepare students for careers in the creative and performing arts sector.

Additionally, a new Music Composition Certificate will equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to create original compositions and arrangements in a variety of styles using a variety of techniques, organize performances of their music and work effectively with performers and technicians.

A full rundown of new programs can be found here.