Palo Alto College offers its first-ever four-year degree, the Bachelor of Applied Technology in Operations Management (B.A.T.). This entirely online, accelerated degree program, offered through the online learning portal Alamo U. The program allows students to earn a four-year degree in a flexible and accessible format that meets the demands of a busy lifestyle. The program’s first cohort began in Spring 2024, and applications are now open for future cohorts.

The B.A.T. in Operations Management equips students with the critical skills to streamline business operations, optimize productivity, and lead teams to deliver high-quality outcomes. By focusing on key areas such as business management, finance, technology, and human resources, this degree prepares graduates to tackle the challenges of leading operations across growing industries like logistics, manufacturing, and service delivery.

Dr. Robert Garza, President of Palo Alto College, said, “The launch of this degree program represents a major milestone for Palo Alto College. We’re excited to offer a pathway to higher education that meets the needs of today’s learners and prepares them to navigate leadership roles in a rapidly changing workforce.”

Thanks to accelerated 8-week courses and multiple start dates throughout the year, students can complete the program at a pace that suits their personal and professional commitments. Incoming students may transfer up to 30 open elective hours from prior coursework in other fields, making it an ideal choice for students enrolling or transferring with existing credits.

A distinctive feature of the online program is its capstone course, where students work on solutions for real-world business problems alongside local business partners. Students apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to solve common operational challenges and present their findings, research, and solutions to business leaders, enhancing their problem-solving and communication skills.

Beyond the academic focus, Palo Alto College provides students various support services throughout the program, including a dedicated Career Services Navigator. This expert will help guide students through the job search process, assisting with resume writing, interview preparation, and job placement to ensure they are ready to launch their careers. The Bachelor of Applied Technology in Operations Management program produces graduates with the knowledge and practical skills to lead teams, design business strategies, and manage operations in various industries.

Prospective students can learn more about the program, including admission requirements and application deadlines, by visiting Palo Alto College’s website at alamo.edu/pac/ops-mgmt.

Palo Alto College, part of the Alamo Colleges District, is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and a recipient of the 2015 Texas Award for Performance Excellence, a finalist for the 2016 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, and a Rising Star winner of the 2019 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. With over 12,000 students, Palo Alto College is accredited to offer associate degrees and short-term certificates. The college is located on the Southside of San Antonio at 1400 W. Villaret Blvd. at I-410 and Texas Hwy 16 and online at alamo.edu/pac.