Applied Studies

Two students in the library consulting the same book on top of a low bookshelf
    Overview

    Looking for a way to finish your undergraduate degree? The Bachelor of Arts in Applied Studies (BAS) is a flexible degree completion program for professionals who have completed some prior college or technical training and are seeking an affordable undergraduate degree completion path to advance their careers.

    The program offers an accelerated entry process with concentrations in a variety of subjects: computer science, interactive design, leadership, lifespan and well-being, and writing for the media.

    Apply up to 90 credits previously earned at Bloomfield or other institutions, plus receive up to eighteen (18) credits for prior learning gained outside the classroom such as from professional work experience, military training, and specialized professional certifications.

    The 120-credit degree program includes a 36-credit applied studies core focused on professional development, management and leadership; 27 credits in a chosen concentration; and free electives. The BAS Core fulfills the College General Education program requirements. All credits earned from a completed AA, AS or AAS degree will be applied toward the BAS degree requirements.

    The program offers a course where students are guided through the development of a portfolio documenting learning through prior experience. The portfolio is evaluated by the program coordinator (or its designee) in consultation with an expert on the subject matter.

    Requirements: A minimum of 30 credits must be completed at Bloomfield College of Montclair State University.

    Admission Criteria: Students entering will have completed at least 30 college credits and have earned their high school diploma, or equivalent, more than five (5) years prior to matriculation into the BAS program. Students are admitted according to all college-wide, approved admissions practices and requirements.

    • According to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, there is a growing demand for workers with higher levels of education and skills in the state's workforce. 
    • There is a significant need for pathway programs in New Jersey to meet the workforce needs of the state.
    • Industries such as healthcare, finance, and technology are expected to experience significant job growth in the coming years, and these fields often require workers with bachelor's degrees or higher. 
    • Degree completion programs are essential for meeting the workforce needs of New Jersey, and beyond, and providing individuals with the education and training they need to succeed in their careers. 

    The program offers flexibility while earning a credential that advances professional career goals and marketability. Depending on the chosen concentration, examples of career paths include: Management, Leadership, Applied Communication, Writing, Patient Advocate, Social Worker, Human Services, Public Safety, Law Enforcement, School Safety, Court/Criminal Justice System, Community Developer, Social Worker, Victims Advocate, Pre-Law, Paralegal, Diversity/Culture, or DEI Officer.

    According to data from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, there are several industries in the state that are projected to experience significant job growth over the coming years, including:

    • Healthcare and Social Assistance
    • Professional and Business Services
    • Education and Training
    • Information Technology
    • Media Industries

    The BAS program, as designed, will provide individuals with the skills and competencies needed to advance in these industries by providing a flexible, accelerated path to accessing high-demand, well-paying careers.

    Career Opportunities may be reviewed at: U.S. Occupational Outlook Handbook)

    Applied Studies Recommended Series of Courses

    The program offers flexibility. The curriculum allows students to customize their college experience focusing on skills and competencies that employers require. A plan leading to degree completion is customized for each student in consultation with their academic advisor. See Requirements tab for a listing of required and optional courses.

    Photo of Natascia Boeri
    Dr. Natascia Boeri
    Associate Professor
    Year Joined: 2017
    • B.A.
      Warren Wilson College;
    • M.A.
      Queens College, City University of New York;
    • Ph.D.
      The Graduate Center, City University of New York
    Phone: 973-748-9000 ext. 1778
    Office: 59 Fremont Street, Room 306
    x

    Natascia Boeri

    Ph.D., Graduate Center, City University of New York
    B.A., Warren Wilson College

    Courses taught:

    Introduction to Sociology
    Social Problems & Public Solutions
    Theory and Practices in Human Services
    Methods of Social Science Research
    Senior Capstones (Senior Seminar, Fall Internship)
    Special Topics (Gender & Social Policy, Women & Leadership)

    Dr. Boeri is an Associate Professor of Sociology, and specializes in gender, work, and social policy. Her current research is on mothers who use opioids and barriers to health and social services. Her work has been funded by the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, and she was a 2015-2016 American Association of University Women Dissertation Fellow. She is an active member of the Sociologists for Women in Society, and has represented SWS as a delegate to the United Nations numerous times. Dr. Boeri’s teaching style emphasizes experiential learning and she is a strong supporter of undergraduate student research. Her publications can be found on Google Scholar.

    Subject(s): Applied Studies, Sociology
    Dr. Franqui-Rivera
    Dr. Harry Franqui-Rivera
    Associate Professor, Coordinator of History/Global Languages
    Year Joined: 2017
    • B.A.
      University of Puerto Rico
    • M.A.
      Temple University
    • Ph.D.
      University of Massachusetts
    Phone: 973-748-9000 ext. 1705
    Office: Seibert Hall, Room 13
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    Harry Franqui-Rivera

    Ph.D. in Caribbean and Latin American History, University of Massachusetts Amherst
    Masters in Military and Diplomatic History from Temple University
    B.A. in History from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez
    G.E.D. from the Departamento de Instruccción Pública de Puerto Rico

    What I teach:

    • Global History I and II
    • Introduction to Latin American and Caribbean Studies
    • Writing History
    • Change Reform and Revolution in the Americas

    Professor Fanqui-Rivera specializes in Puerto Rican, Caribbean, Latino and Latin American History focusing on the 19th and 20th centuries. Among other interests he studies the condition of Puerto Rican veterans and service members and their impact in society; the role played by military service and institutions on nation-building projects and in the development of national identities; imperial-colonial relations, race, gender, class, and nation. He's also involved in Oral History and Digital Humanities Projects and in the production of short documentaries. He has several academic articles on these topics and two forthcoming books: Soldiers of the Nation: Military Service and Modern Puerto Rico, 1868-1952. University of Nebraska Press. Fighting on Two Fronts: The Experience of the Puerto Rican Soldiers in the Korean War. Centro Press. He is a published author, public intellectual, cultural critic, and blogger. He blogs and publishes in academic and news outlets such as the Huffington Post, Centro Voices, Latino Rebels, 80 Grados, Focaal, Process: A Blog for American History, and U.S. Studies Online. He served for over a decade in the U.S. Army and the National Guard and Reserve. His academic work can be found at http://www.academia.edu/. “History is not a Walt Disney production.” HFR

    Subject(s): Applied Studies, History, Latin American and Caribbean Studies
    Academic Committee(s): Faculty Rep to Student Affairs
    • Students will demonstrate the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively to meet organizational goals or objectives.
    • Students will be able to apply specialized knowledge and skills in their chosen field to solve practical problems and make informed decisions.
    • Students will be able to demonstrate ethical and socially responsible behavior by identifying and addressing ethical dilemmas, applying ethical principles to decision-making, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
    • Students will be able to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to analyze complex issues and develop effective solutions using relevant data, evidence and logical reasoning.
    • Students will be able to demonstrate leadership, teamwork and collaboration skills by working effectively with diverse groups of people to achieve common goals and objectives.

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