A&M-Commerce Offers Two New Competency-Based Degrees

The university will offer fully online bachelor's degrees aimed at city planning and human resource development

The College of Innovation and Design (CID) at Texas A&M-Commerce has announced two new competency-based bachelor's degree programs. Both degrees aim to help working professionals enhance their careers and transform their lives.

The undergraduate programs in city planning and human resource development continue CID's mission of providing relevant, workforce-driven degrees.

Shaping tomorrow's cities

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for skilled city planners is on the rise. Rapid urbanization, climate change and economic and infrastructure development are just some of the key issues driving this growth. Additional factors include affordable housing, access to services and community engagement.

A bachelor's in city planning can provide a foundation for careers in city and regional government, state and federal agencies, housing, transit, nonprofits and more.

A hand hovers over a 3D digital city model with proposed buildings imposed around existing buildings and landscape.
Adobe Stock | Summit Art Creations

The competency-based, online BAAS in Public Administration, City Planning is designed to equip future city planners and administrators to tackle challenges, including rapid urbanization and economic development. The program also emphasizes the intersection of urban planning and rural development.

Howdy Lisenbee, city manager for the City of Commerce, Texas, is a member of the advisory board that contributed to the program's development. He said it's important for citizens and elected officials to have confidence that those serving the community have the education, experience and skills to succeed and serve well.

“Additionally, city staff need an effective yet affordable path to grow their education and skill base to serve their respective communities,” Lisenbee said. “We are excited to see this program open and even more excited to see students from communities around the region have access to this incredible opportunity.”

A bachelor's degree in city planning serves as an entry point into the field. Professionals often go on to obtain a master's degree to elevate into top roles. Urban and regional planners with a master's degree can expect median wages to hit $81,800.

Growing and retaining a talented workforce

Another new competency-based program offered by CID helps students develop skills to become human resource development professionals.

The program, offered as a BAAS in Human Resource Development, prepares students to become professionals skilled at enhancing organizational efficiency and helping employees develop their knowledge, skills and abilities.

This robust program covers:

  • Employee training and development
  • Performance improvement
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Coaching
  • Succession planning
  • Employee career development and
  • Organizational culture and development
A digital image with a hand reaching to touch a floating field of hexagons containing icons related to human resources.
Adobe Stock | Sikov

Dr. Catherine Cockrell, the program’s instructor, says the bachelor's in human resource development is a great opportunity to begin a career in human resources.

“The outlook for professionals in human resource development is growing due to the ever-changing global landscape,” Cockrell said. “These professionals are increasingly strategic partners at the highest level in organizations. They're tech-savvy with varied specializations.”

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of human resource specialists is expected to grow eight percent between 2023 and 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. While entry-level employees can expect median wages to hit $67,650 annually, human resource managers average $136,350 per year.

Degree programs built for busy students

Both competency-based programs are offered fully online in seven-week terms. Students can transfer up to 84 credit hours and leverage prior learning to accelerate through coursework. The programs are offered at a flat rate of $1,000 per term and are eligible for financial aid.

“These new degree programs exemplify our commitment to providing accessible education that meets the evolving needs of today’s professionals,” said Dr. April Sanders, interim dean of CID. “By focusing on public administration and human resource development, we’re equipping our students with the skills and knowledge to make meaningful impacts in their communities and organizations.”

Explore the many degree programs and graduate certificates available through the College of Innovation and Design at Texas A&M-Commerce.