Summary of Idea:
Program Management is a growing career field that embodies the goals and ideals of a liberal arts education. Dickinson College could be one of the first colleges or universities to establish an undergraduate major in this cross-discipline field of endeavor. Program Managers are responsible for establishing, managing, and implementing the innovative ideas and policies that enhance our society and the global environment. No good idea or policy can be put in place without Program Managers skilled in multiple disciplines, including quantitative analyses, statistics, budgeting, economics, engineering, science, policymaking, business, social studies, and environmental sustainment. Current training and education programs in Program Management are largely addressed by graduate programs and career training such as is conducted by the Program Management Institute and the Defense Acquisition University. By providing such a program to undergraduates, Dickinson College could be a leader in preparing its students for careers implementing innovations across the public and private sectors.
How does your idea relate to or support the college’s strategic framework?
Program Management supports Dickinson’s commitment to a liberal arts education and sustainment. Its cross-discipline set of skills are highly sought after by businesses, governments, and international organizations. Dickinson’s strategic goals to develop students into leaders of international engagement and innovation would be greatly enhanced by creating this opportunity to establish a Program Management curriculum that would enable the students to put ideas and innovations into action.
What partnerships, on campus and off campus, do you envision?
This effort would build on Dickinson's current partnership with the Army War College and expand it to include the Defense Acquisition University and the Program Management Institute.
How will your idea positively affect the education of Dickinson students?
By creating an opportunity to major in Program Management, Dickinson students will be better able to envision their role in the national and international public and private sectors to make things happen and implement new ideas and policies. Dickinson students’ education will be greatly enhanced by providing a tangible and recognizable application of the liberal arts education.
How will your idea positively impact the world beyond Dickinson’s campus?
Beyond Dickinson, many different careers will be greatly enhanced by students educated and motivated to make their mark on society through the ability to manage and implement new ideas and innovations. Programs and program improvements could all be enhanced through such a program instituted at the undergraduate, liberal arts level of education. Whether ideas involve development of a new IT program or a better way to manufacture products in a more sustainable way, a Program Management discipline could provide the foundation for Dickinson students to make a difference.