The Business Instructional Facility (BIF) is a state-of-the-art educational building located on the campus of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The facility serves as the primary location for the Gies College of Business, providing students with a unique and innovative learning environment. Completed in 2008, the BIF is a 160,000-square-foot building that features a combination of classrooms, auditoriums, offices, and collaborative workspaces. The facility is designed to foster a sense of community and promote interactive learning, with an emphasis on teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
Design and Features
The BIF is designed to be a flexible and adaptable space, with movable walls and modular furniture that can be rearranged to accommodate different teaching styles and learning activities. The facility features a variety of technologically advanced classrooms, including a trading room equipped with Bloomberg terminals and a financial laboratory with specialized software and equipment. Additionally, the BIF is home to a number of collaborative workspaces, including group study rooms, project rooms, and a business incubator that provides resources and support for student entrepreneurs.
Sustainable Design
The BIF is a LEED-certified building, meaning that it meets rigorous standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmental sustainability. The facility features a number of green building technologies, including a rooftop garden, a rainwater harvesting system, and a high-performance HVAC system. These features not only reduce the building’s environmental impact but also provide a unique opportunity for students to learn about sustainable design and practices.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Classrooms | 23 technologically advanced classrooms with movable walls and modular furniture |
| Collaborative Workspaces | Group study rooms, project rooms, business incubator, and other collaborative areas |
| Sustainable Design | LEED-certified building with rooftop garden, rainwater harvesting system, and high-performance HVAC system |
Academic Programs
The BIF is home to a number of academic programs, including the Gies College of Business’s undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The facility provides students with access to a range of academic resources, including career services, academic advising, and tutoring. Additionally, the BIF is home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Illinois Business Consulting program and the Center for Professional Responsibility.
Research and Outreach
The BIF is also a hub for research and outreach activities, with a number of research centers and institutes located within the facility. These centers and institutes provide students and faculty with opportunities to engage in applied research and community outreach projects, working with businesses, organizations, and government agencies to address real-world challenges and opportunities. Some of the research centers and institutes located in the BIF include:
- Illinois Business Consulting program
- Center for Professional Responsibility
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute
- Financial Markets Research Center
What types of academic programs are offered at the BIF?
+The BIF is home to the Gies College of Business's undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including programs in accounting, finance, management, marketing, and more.
What types of research centers and institutes are located in the BIF?
+The BIF is home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Illinois Business Consulting program, the Center for Professional Responsibility, and the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute, among others.
In conclusion, the Business Instructional Facility is a state-of-the-art educational building that provides students with a unique and innovative learning environment. With its technologically advanced classrooms, collaborative workspaces, and sustainable design features, the BIF is an ideal location for students to learn, grow, and succeed. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a degree in business or simply looking for a unique and supportive learning environment, the BIF has something to offer.
