JWU Announces New Undergraduate Academic Programs for 2020

JWU's new SEEM Lab.

Johnson & Wales University (JWU) has unveiled more than 10 new undergraduate programs for the 2020-21 academic year.

These programs are in a diverse range of fields — from biomedical engineering to adventure tourism, sustainable food systems to sport/event management — and are designed to meet the needs of today’s (and tomorrow’s) growing industries. All of them offer opportunities for collaboration, world travel and work experience with leading-edge companies.

Keep in mind that most of these programs are still being finalized and that some of this information might change by the time the 2020 academic year begins.* At that point, all undergraduate programs will have transitioned to a semester, rather than term-based, system. 

John Hazen White College of Arts & Sciences
Interdisciplinary Studies: Design Your Own Major: All students begin their studies with Arts & Sciences core courses. During that first semester, they will also create a proposal for their intended self-designed major — which will combine courses from 2-3 distinctive yet complementary disciplines into a coherent 4-year study that addresses a theme, problem or issue to be investigated in depth. The proposed program of study must be approved by faculty committee in order for them to continue with their intended major. PVD

Economics: In this interdisciplinary program, debate crucial questions and gain a solid understanding of the economic factors that drive the worlds of finance, industry, labor practices, media and technology. Acquire extensive knowledge about economic organization, market process, entrepreneurship, and public policy. Learn to use economic theory as an analytical tool set to examine real world markets, institutions and behaviors. A choice of elective courses allows students to deepen their focus by choosing courses best suited to their career goals. PVD, CLT, OL

Sociology: Gain a broad understanding of how social influences like race, gender, economic status and education play a role in group and organizational structures in the culture at large. Students will work on unpacking the social impact of current events and cultural trends — Associate Professor Jessica Sherwood recommends that they bring their curiosity to the classroom (“that’s number one,” she says), as well as an abiding interest in social structure and context. PVD, OL

College of Engineering & Design
Biomedical Engineering integrates engineering science, mathematics and biology into an interdisciplinary program focused on improving human health. This is a program focused on problem-solving and helping to create products or procedures to improve quality of life. Think prosthetics, robotic tools used in surgery, and implantable medical devices. PVD

Digital Marketing & Social Media: There is a growing need for professionals who can plan and communicate brand messaging across various digital platforms. JWU’s bachelor degree program gives students the knowledge to develop effective social media strategies. Learn how to reach audiences with engaging content for such platforms as Facebook, YouTube and Instagram. Study target audiences to show businesses how to use digital marketing and social media to their advantage. PVD, OL

College of Food Innovation & Technology (CFIT)
Sustainable Food Systems: Most food systems programs are agriculture or conservation based; JWU’s program is food and cooking-based and tied to working kitchens. Students will share a common first-year experience that includes culinary fundamentals, skills and techniques, followed by sustainability programming where they’ll explore and participate in their food system at the farm, in the kitchen, and throughout the community.

The 24 elective credits built into the major allow for customization — students can narrow in on an area of focus, like policy and advocacy, advanced culinary sustainability, supply chain management, or public health (to name a few possibilities). Internship and Study Abroad opportunities will also be available. PVD

College of Hospitality Management
Adventure, Sport and Sustainable Tourism: Adventure tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. JWU’s new program taps into this vibrant market, while fostering a critical awareness of ways that tourism can sustain and conserve environments, cultures and individual welfare. PVD

Food & Beverage Industry Management (FBIM) combines the former Food Service Management and Restaurant, Food & Beverage Management programs into a retooled bachelor’s degree. The “2 + 2” option — completing an AS in Baking & Pastry Arts or in Culinary Arts, then shifting into FBIM — is still available. Student can choose from 3 specializations:

  • Culinary
  • Beverage
  • Guest Relations PVD, CLT

Hospitality Management: A broad-based bachelor’s degree that enables students to learn about all facets of hospitality. Courses include Hospitality Strategic Marketing, Managing Guest Experiences, Dynamics of Tourism, and more. The degree is rounded out with arts and sciences courses in communications, nutrition, and economics, to name a few. Add real-life experiences through study abroad programs and internships. PVD, OL

Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (SEEM), one of the College of Hospitality Management’s cornerstone programs, will look different in 2020. Standalone bachelor’s degree programs in Event Management PVD, OL and Sport Management PVD, CLT, OL will start in 2020. In the interim, the traditional SEEM bachelor’s degree includes a choice of 3 specializations: Sports Management, Live Entertainment Management, or Event Management.

In addition, graduate programs like the M.S. in Sport Leadership and the MBA with a concentration in Event Leadership allow students to seamlessly transition into higher-level study.

*Academic programs do change, so make sure to check JWU.edu/Majors for the most up-to-date information about program offerings at your campus of choice.

TOP: THE NEW SEEM LAB AT THE PROVIDENCE CAMPUS. BELOW: STUDYING SUSTAINABILITY IN THE FIELD: CHEF BRANDEN LEWIS AND STUDENTS AT WILD HARMONY FARM.

Students from the sustainable food systems program.