The Applied Technology Department is adding two four-year degrees to its catalog: a Bachelor of Technology in Construction Management, and a Bachelor of Technology in Automotive Service Management. They both currently exist as associate degrees and the two additional years of business study will focus on management and marketing.

“There’s a lot more to running a business than just doing the actual job,” said Mark Hyder, dean for the School of Business and Management. “These expanded programs that we are helping teach give students the complete package.”

Both degrees are hands-on, with required labs and remodeling projects throughout the year. For the construction degree, students will also get real-world job experience through summer internships working on commercial projects.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, careers in construction management are on the rise. But beyond the obvious importance of job placement and career stability, Southern’s professors believe there is eternal value in graduating Adventists with these skill sets.

“We need more churches and schools,” said John Youngberg, associate professor in the Applied Technology Department. “It’s one of my missions to build the labor force that keeps the church growing and in good repair for the next generation.”

Automotive technology is experiencing similar growth with job demand above average. These new degrees allow students to not only find a job, but also have the skills to run their own business as an entrepreneur.

“We can place every student who graduates from this program,” said Dale Walters, associate professor in the Applied Technology Department. “It’s a profession that isn’t going away soon.”

Prospective students, and businesses looking to partner with Southern for qualified interns or leads on future employees, may contact the Applied Technology Department for more information.