Leeds Partners with CEAS to Launch Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering Program
The new IBE undergraduate degree program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles at the intersection of business strategy and technological innovation.
On November 6, the University of Colorado Board of Regents voted to approve the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering (IBE) degree program jointly developed by the Leeds School of Business and the College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) at the University of Colorado Boulder.
Blending engineering’s analytical power with business’ strategic insight, this program will produce graduates equipped to lead, innovate and thrive in a rapidly changing, technology-driven world.
“This program is a bold step forward in interdisciplinary education,” said Jennifer Bone, associate dean of undergraduate programs at Leeds. “Our goal is to cultivate leaders who can think strategically, solve complex problems and drive innovation across industries. The IBE degree equips students with the tools to bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen—skills that are increasingly in demand.”
"The IBE degree equips students with the tools to bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen—skills that are increasingly in demand.”
Jennifer Bone, associate dean of undergraduate programs
The inaugural cohort of students will begin the IBE program in fall 2026, gaining access to a distinctive curriculum that integrates the nationally recognized strengths of CU Boulder’s business and engineering programs. Students will build a foundation of core business principles and engineering knowledge, with the opportunity to specialize in either Entrepreneurship or Sustainability.
"Employers consistently tell us they need engineers who can think beyond technical solutions to understand business strategy and market impact," said Kurt Maute, associate dean for undergraduate education at the College of Engineering and Applied Science. "This program gives our students that business literacy alongside their rigorous mathematical and engineering training, preparing them for the collaborative, cross-functional teams they'll join after graduation. This degree will provide an excellent launch pad for future entrepreneurs and leaders of tech companies.”
Leeds brings a strong foundation of thought leadership in both sustainability and entrepreneurship, making it the ideal home for the new IBE program. Students will benefit from access to the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility, which champions values-driven leadership and sustainable business practices, and the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship, a nationally recognized hub for innovation and startup development. These centers, along with CU Boulder’s broader commitment to sustainability—including the recent launch of two sustainability-focused master’s degrees—underscore the university’s dedication to preparing students for purpose-driven careers. CU Boulder’s designation as an Ignition School for the second year in a row by Inc. and Fast Company further highlights its role as an advocate for entrepreneurial education, community impact and a strong innovative spirit.
The new IBE degree program emphasizes project-based learning, systems thinking and data-informed decision-making, ensuring students graduate with practical experience and a strong professional skill set. Students will progress through the program in cohorts, fostering collaboration and peer support throughout their academic journey.
To learn more about the IBE program, email LeedsIBE@colorado.edu