A business environment is very dynamic, requiring a unique set of skills for success. College of Saint Mary has spent the last several months conducting research on the skill set needed for a student to succeed in a business environment. The data analysis included information obtained from various participants in focus groups as well as analysis of data about the current curriculum offered in business and information system programs. The focus groups included large and small business, government and nonprofit businesses as well as current board members, advisory board members, alumnae, high school teachers and counselors as well as traditional and non-traditional students. Data was also collected regarding area business curriculum in other institutions as well as historical data at College of Saint Mary.

Careful analysis was completed on the data with a few critical areas emerging. The degree should include the development of a strong liberal arts components including:
· Communication
· Critical Thinking
· Problem Solving
· Strategic Management

College of Saint Mary has developed a new degree based on this research with the primary themes including the need for a foundation of liberal arts and business as well as supporting courses in analytics and strategic communication.