Introducing the New Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering (IBE) Degree Program at CU Boulder
University of Colorado Boulder Launches Innovative Integrated Business and Engineering Degree
Boulder, CO – November 7, 2023 – In a groundbreaking move to equip students for the future, the University of Colorado Board of Regents has approved the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering (IBE) degree program. This unique initiative, developed collaboratively by the Leeds School of Business and the College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS), aims to prepare graduates for leadership roles at the intersection of business strategy and technological innovation.
Set to welcome its inaugural cohort in fall 2026, the IBE program promises to blend the analytical prowess of engineering with the strategic insights of business. “This program is a bold step forward in interdisciplinary education,” said Jennifer Bone, associate dean of undergraduate programs at Leeds. “Our goal is to cultivate leaders who can think strategically, solve complex problems, and drive innovation across industries.”
The IBE curriculum will provide students with a solid foundation in core business principles and engineering knowledge, with specialized tracks in Entrepreneurship or Sustainability. “Employers consistently tell us they need engineers who can think beyond technical solutions to understand business strategy and market impact,” noted Kurt Maute, associate dean for undergraduate education at CEAS. “This program gives our students that business literacy alongside their rigorous mathematical and engineering training, preparing them for the collaborative, cross-functional teams they’ll join after graduation.”
The new degree program is designed to meet the growing demand for professionals who can navigate the complexities of a technology-driven world. Students will engage in project-based learning, systems thinking, and data-informed decision-making, ensuring they graduate with both practical experience and a robust professional skill set. Progressing through the program in cohorts will foster collaboration and peer support, enhancing the overall educational experience.
CU Boulder’s commitment to sustainability and entrepreneurship further enriches the IBE program. Students will have access to the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility and the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship, both of which champion values-driven leadership and innovation. The university’s recent recognition as an Ignition School by Inc. and Fast Company underscores its dedication to entrepreneurial education and community impact.
As the demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen continues to rise, the IBE degree program positions CU Boulder at the forefront of preparing the next generation of leaders.
For more information about the IBE program, interested students can reach out via email at LeedsIBE@colorado.edu.
This innovative degree is not just a program; it’s a launch pad for future entrepreneurs and leaders in technology, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
