BU Professor Enhances IS Programs With Emerging Technology

January 28, 2026 - 05:58

After a distinguished career in industry, Dr. Jason Ferguson transitioned to academia with a clear mission: to prepare the next generation for the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Now, as a program director for both undergraduate and graduate information systems degrees, he is systematically integrating emerging technologies into the core curriculum.

Dr. Ferguson’s approach is hands-on and forward-looking. Students are now gaining direct experience with tools like robotic process automation for streamlining business processes, natural language processing for analyzing unstructured data, and blockchain principles for understanding secure transactions. This practical focus ensures that theoretical knowledge is immediately applicable to real-world challenges.

"The industry doesn't stand still, and neither can our programs," Ferguson stated. He emphasizes that modern information systems education must extend beyond traditional databases and networks to include the tools driving current innovation. This philosophy is designed to make graduates not just participants, but leaders, in their future workplaces. By embedding these technologies into coursework and projects, the programs aim to produce professionals who can implement, manage, and ethically guide the adoption of new systems from day one. This strategic enhancement ensures students are equipped with a competitive and highly relevant skill set upon entering the job market.