The Bachelor of Innovation (BI) at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs

The Bachelor of Innovation or (BI) provides an opportunity for students to develop high level competence in self-driven learning, innovative thinking, teamwork-oriented projects, and client communication. This one-of-a-kind degree program intersects students from diverse majors and backgrounds to solve problems through innovative approaches. The projects completed by student innovation teams help businesses and nonprofits streamline their operations. This BI degree is internationally renowned for teaching students to work together and share their different mindsets to transform ideas into impact with genuine results. The BI teaches valuable skills such as how to communicate within a team, how to be a leader, and how to get on the court and be a team player. The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) is the first school to establish a bachelor’s degree with a core in innovation, establishing an incredible foundation for ambitious, creative individuals who desire to make an impact.

Desire to innovate

Speaking from my experiences in the innovation teams classes, to create or innovate something, it must be supported by a team of equally ambitious people that will devote their time and resources to the shared vision and work to see their idea transpire in the world. This work has been the foundation for my love of innovating, my love for being on a team, and my love for working towards a goal. Most importantly, I have learned to enjoy the overall nature of the innovation journey. From noticing and appreciating the small success, to the meaningful conversations, to the goals accomplished, to the paths and minds of individuals crossed along the way, it is a form of art.

  • I innovate to help others
  • to express creativity
  • to bring forth a solution

With a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Information Systems and a core area of study in Engineering and Technology, I truly feel as though my educational development has a very strong base. Paired with a Bachelor of Innovation core, I know how to intersect knowledge with others and declare the impossible, possible.

Transforming Ideas into Impact

During my time as an innovation student, I began implementing an entrepreneurial mindset. Some demonstrations of this include a provisional patent application for two inventions. The first being a soft gel pad to apply to the inner frame of eyeglasses to prevent pressure from over the ear headphones. The second being a self-buttered popcorn bowl that includes handles that retract and spin an inner gyro sphere to coat the contents with a desired substance. I also learned how to write a grant application for a non-profit seeking funding.

Although each of these projects came with their hardships, I have never felt more satisfied in these accomplishments. These projects have directed me closer to my passion in life and made me feel more comfortable about being on a team in charge of a big project.

My investment in the BI has equipped me with skills that go beyond just the title of my degree. It has allowed me to become a strong leader, stay organized and on time, provide insightful communication, stay accountable to a team, and most importantly, has self-motivated me to continue learning new things and acquiring new skills.