With so many reports about the challenges of independent colleges, CIC would like to highlight a sampling of member institutions that shared with us that they are developing or launching new programs or majors. There is innovation in our sector and successes to celebrate, and we are pleased to pass on some great examples that were sent to us.
If you have important or exciting news to share about your institution, please email Allison Barkley, CIC editorial content specialist, at abarkley@cic.edu to be considered for an upcoming newsletter article.
McDaniel College Launches Early Childhood Education Undergraduate Major
McDaniel College (MD) has received approval to offer a new undergraduate major in early childhood education from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC). This new major, beginning Fall 2024, expands McDaniel’s education offerings to prepare undergraduate students to teach infants, toddlers, and young children, which is a focus of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. “Our education programs are well-known and highly respected and regarded, and we are excited to be able to build upon our current offerings while focusing on the need for high quality teachers in support of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, which emphasizes access to early education opportunities to prepare all children for success,” said Tracey Lucas, assistant dean of education. McDaniel has provided programs to train teachers and administrators for over 110 years and currently offers an elementary education major, as well as secondary education and pre-K–12 minors in specialized areas, such as art, physical education, and Spanish, along with almost 20 graduate degrees and certificates. The new major provides a pathway for students looking to obtain a bachelor’s degree and seek teacher certification for pre-K through third grade.
Since Fall 2020, McDaniel has added 13 new majors that directly prepare students for careers in growing fields, including actuarial science, American Sign Language, applied mathematics, biochemistry, biomedical science, criminal justice, food studies, health sciences, international business, marketing, and writing and publishing. A new Bachelor of Science in Nursing begins Fall 2024. McDaniel has recently announced plans to develop a new Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program in response to growing workforce need.
Midway University Launches New Master’s Degree Programs in Health Care Administration and Management Information Systems; New Game Studies and Design Major
Midway University (KY) will launch two new master’s degree programs: the Master of Health Care Administration and the Master of Management Information Systems. These programs have been designed to meet the growing demands and ever-evolving challenges in the fields of health care and technology. “We are thrilled to introduce these new master’s degree programs in health care administration and management information systems,” said Tim Campbell, vice president of academic affairs at Midway University. “As the health care industry continues to evolve and technology becomes increasingly integrated into organizations, it is crucial to provide our students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in these fields.” Both programs will be offered online.
The university will also launch a new major in game studies and design in Fall 2024. The comprehensive curriculum covers game studies, game development, graphic design, storytelling, and interactive narrative design. Notably, this online program aligns with the industry’s remote work trend, providing students with flexibility tailored to the dynamic gaming sector.
Moravian University Launches School of Professional Studies and Innovation
The School of Professional Studies and Innovation at Moravian University (PA) began to accept students in Fall 2023 but had an official launch date of February 1, 2024. The school offers professional programs, in both online and hybrid formats, that align with the current and future needs of the job market, and will focus on adult education, degree completion, and certificate programs for adult learners.
Deirdre Letson-Christofalo has been named associate provost and dean of the School of Professional Studies and Innovation. Letson-Christofalo’s experience includes spearheading initiatives such as the establishment of an Innovation Lab and the introduction of stackable credentials in high-demand areas like blockchain technology, business analytics, digital marketing, and cybersecurity alongside students’ degree programs. Additionally, Letson-Christofalo has excelled in forming valuable partnerships with Fortune 500 companies. “I have worked with Deirdre at other institutions, and I was always impressed with her extensive knowledge of higher ed, her drive, and her unique ability to deliver precisely what students are asking for,” said Bryon Grigsby, president of Moravian University. “When the idea for this new school became a reality for Moravian, Deirdre was at the top of my list to lead it. We know that adult learners in the Lehigh Valley, and beyond, want the types of programs being offered, and we’re excited to address that market need.”
Mount Mary University Launches New Master of Social Work and New Majors
Mount Mary University (WI) will offer a Master of Social Work beginning Fall 2024. The program emphasizes social justice and inclusion, preparing students to work with diverse populations. Coursework is designed around standards set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) which will prepare students to apply for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Advanced Practice Social Worker (CAPSW) status in Wisconsin. “Students master skills for their tool belt, preparing them for a very diverse range of opportunities that apply across many areas of the field,” shared program chair Melinda Kiltz. “Social work graduates are employed in a diverse range of settings, such as hospitals, schools, free medical clinics, children and family services–there is such a wide variety of opportunities available.” Mount Mary University was the first private college in Wisconsin to have a baccalaureate degree in social work accredited by the CSWE. This year will mark the 50th year of accreditation of the undergraduate social work program and the beginning of the Master of Social Work program.
Mount Mary University will also launch new majors in cybersecurity, business analytics, digital marketing, and public relations. The programs will be hybrid models with online and in-person classes. “We are thrilled to introduce these new, important degrees in high-demand fields that will prepare our students to meet the market needs,” said Isabelle Cherney, Mount Mary University president. “These new hybrid programs will provide non-traditional students the flexibility to pursue exciting careers using the newest technology. Taught by experts in the field, these new degrees will offer the flexibility adult learners want.”
St. Norbert College Creates More Career Pathways with Twelve New Academic Programs
St. Norbert College (WI) is adding five new majors, five new minors, one new concentration, and one new certificate program to provide students with expertise in high-growth areas in which employers are searching for talent. New offerings available this fall include engineering physics major, robotics minor, sustainability minor, management major, finance major, marketing major, supply chain management major, digital marketing minor, project management minor, data analytics minor, game development concentration, and a certificate in arts management.
“These new initiatives not only expand the horizons of our students, reflecting our commitment to providing students with cutting-edge and relevant academic programs, but also align seamlessly with our mission to address the evolving needs of the local community. By providing diverse and innovative learning opportunities, we empower our students to become catalysts for positive change, contributing meaningfully to the growth and wellbeing of our community,” said St. Norbert College President Laurie Joyner. “This milestone reflects our dedication to shaping future leaders who are not only academically proficient but also deeply connected to the transformative impact they can make in the world.”
University of St. Joseph Launches BA in Engineering Science and MA in Special Education
The University of St. Joseph (CT) launched a new program to earn a BA in engineering science in response to a workforce need in Connecticut, a student interest in the field, and a more general need to diversify the workforce in the engineering/technology/manufacturing sectors. The university also launched a MA in special education with a concentration in transition and accessibility services in postsecondary settings in response to the need for professionals to assist students with learning disabilities and other special needs apply to college and be prepared for college as well as professionals to work in higher education to support the students and comply with regulations. This new concentration draws on the university’s strengths and expands into a new market, and will be offered online to attract a national pool of applicants.
The University of St. Joseph was a women’s college until Fall 2018. When it became a co-ed institution, it added a number of programs and these newest additions are a continuation of those efforts.
New Graduate and Undergraduate Programs at Lipscomb University
Lipscomb University (TN) launched three new graduate-level programs and one accelerated undergraduate program in August 2024, all designed to enhance graduates’ value in the ever-changing marketplace. All four programs are offered in flexible formats or are among the first such programs in the city or state.
The Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence is an 18-month program designed to meet the growing demand across industries for AI expertise among those without a computer science background. The Master of Science in Sport Analytics will train students for analytical positions in professional and collegiate sport as well as other entertainment and sport-related careers. The Entertainment, Design, and Creative Enterprise stackable graduate certificates program offers a selection of specialized credentials that help professionals build their artistic repertoire and grow their industry network through certificates in various creative arts sectors. The accelerated Bachelor of Nursing program is designed to address the growing demand for highly qualified nurses in the health care industry, allowing students with a bachelor’s degree or higher in another field to earn a BSN in just 16 months through a hybrid format.
Concordia College Begins Numerous New Programs
Over the past year, Concordia College (MN) has launched about 20 new programs, including academic programs such as applied data analytics, data science, supply chain management, healthcare leadership, and financial planning; co-curricular programs such as drumline and jazz band; and athletic programs such as esports and clay target.
Millsaps College Launches New Majors and Master’s Programs
Millsaps College (MS) expanded the curriculum by launching six new majors for undergraduates and two new master’s degree programs in Fall 2024. The new majors are designed to help students meet the demands of careers in new and emerging technologies today and into the future. They include User Experience Design, Health and Exercise Science, Public Health, Computer Science, Data Science and Business Analytics. Master of Accountancy with Analytics and Master of Business Administration with Analytics are the two new graduate programs.
La Roche University Begins Fall Semester with New Degree Programs
La Roche University (PA) launched a new Masters in clinical mental health counseling this fall to help address the national mental health crisis with well-equipped staff and services. The university also started a new Bachelors of Science degree in cybersecurity and forensics. Both programs began with highly qualified faculty and an energetic group of first year students.
LaGrange College Adds New Graduate and Undergraduate Degrees and Concentrations
LaGrange College (GA) added many new graduate and undergraduate programs last year, and has already approved one this year. At the graduate level, the goal is to provide needed workforce development in the region as well as to help offset the coming demographic changes at the undergraduate level. New graduate programs include an EdD in curriculum and instruction (LaGrange’s first doctoral program with an initial cohort that was three times the expected size), an MEd in higher education student affairs, an MEd in education studies, an MS in computer science, and two graduate certificates in marriage and family therapy and in curriculum and instruction.
At the undergraduate level, LaGrange has added a BS in computer science, a minor in aviation, a minor in neuroscience, and an exercise science concentration in strength and conditioning. This fall, the faculty approved a new BS in manufacturing engineering technology. The undergraduate programs are in response to workforce needs expressed by the community and corporate partners. Due in part to these new opportunities, LaGrange’s fall enrollment and excitement in the community has increased.
DePauw University Introduces Three-School Model
DePauw University (IN) has introduced a transformative three-school model to advance its liberal arts foundation and explore new academic areas. This model includes the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Leadership, and the Creative School.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences remains central to DePauw’s educational philosophy. It offers a broad liberal arts education across 87 majors and minors. Through a focus on the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics, it emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and a commitment to lifelong learning. The School of Business and Leadership combines liberal arts principles with business education to develop ethical leaders for business, civic and nonprofit sectors. It features majors in actuarial science, business analytics, economics and finance, along with seven minors, fostering skills in dynamic problem-solving and teamwork. The Creative School emphasizes innovation and the arts, offering majors in music, film and media arts, creative writing, studio art, design studies, art history, museum studies and theatre. It promotes innovative interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare students for dynamic careers in creative industries.
Reed College Launches Program in Film and Media Studies
Reed College (OR) has launched an interdisciplinary and cross-divisional major in film and media studies. This program was designed to meet student demands and complements the institution’s strategic vision to promote interdisciplinarity. The curriculum is anchored in the history, theory, and criticism of film and other communications media. Beyond the core, the program provides student opportunities to pursue courses in analysis and interpretation from various historical periods, national cinemas, directors, and genres; histories of media and mediation; the relationship between race, gender, and media; the role and power of media in shaping social values, political beliefs, identities and behaviors; and the study of computers and computing, particularly in the context of art, communication, and culture. The program offers both a major and a minor drawing on faculty from anthropology, art, English, French, Chinese, German, Russian, Spanish, literature, and music. The program is designed to strengthen ties between humanities, arts, social studies, and media-related disciplines such as computer science and data-visualization. It will promote the values of multiculturalism and multilingualism and decenter the global North by promoting an understanding of global culture as opposed to national traditions.
Alvernia University Introduces Innovative Apprenticeship to Degree Program
Alvernia University (PA) launched the Apprenticeship to Degree Program, an innovative initiative that establishes a dynamic partnership between the university and local industries, small businesses, and government entities for long-term experiential learning opportunities and workforce development. The Apprenticeship to Degree Program at Alvernia is designed to meet the evolving needs of both students and industry partners. Through paid externships and internships, Alvernia students embark on a journey of professional growth and development while employers introduce students to their organizational culture with the prospect of making long-term hires. Students enrolled in the program come from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, and many are first-generation college students. They will gain valuable employment opportunities and enjoy the benefits of subsidized on-campus housing, credits toward graduation, and a comprehensive orientation to the diverse career options throughout the region. The Apprenticeship to Degree Program is a key component of Alvernia’s broader strategy to enhance student outcomes through experiential learning.
Hiram College Announces New “Hiram Guarantee” with Tuition and Four-Year Graduation Promise
Hiram College (OH) is excited to introduce the Hiram Guarantee, a comprehensive initiative designed to provide students and families with financial peace of mind and a clear path to graduation. The Hiram Guarantee includes a Tuition Guarantee and a Four-Year Graduation Promise, underscoring Hiram’s commitment to affordability, transparency, and student achievement.
The Hiram Guarantee ensures that tuition rates remain fixed for the entirety of a student’s undergraduate education. Beginning in their first year, students will lock in their tuition rate, avoiding any increases over the next four years, to allow families to plan for their financial commitment with confidence and clarity. Additionally, the Four-Year Graduation Promise pledges that students who declare their major on time and follow their academic plan will graduate within four years, emphasizing Hiram’s dedication to student success.
“Mary Baldwin Signature” Brings New Curriculum to Mary Baldwin University
Mary Baldwin University (VA) is launching a new, 10-course undergraduate common curriculum in Fall 2025 to better meet the needs of today’s students. This curriculum, part of the university’s all-new “Mary Baldwin Signature” undergraduate experience, was developed by faculty and staff to modernize the college experience and streamline students’ transition into their major coursework and, later, into the professional world. The common curriculum is melded with outside-the-classroom experiences, which are together engineered to build mastery in six skills highly sought after in today’s global marketplace: collaboration; communication; critical and creative thinking; inclusion, equity, and reflection; global perspectives and local responsibility; and data and technology fluency.
North Central College’s Excel Program Offers Quicker Pathway to a College Degree for English Language Learners
North Central College (IL)’s new Excel Program enables students for whom English is not their first language to earn college credit while working to enhance their English skills. The one-semester program, which launched this fall and is also available for spring semester entry, is designed for multilingual students who have taken English Language Learning (ELL) classes in high school as well as international students in the U.S. for undergraduate study. The Excel Program helps students succeed in college by preparing them to read, analyze and write about academic texts, as well as to actively participate in academic discussions, while making progress toward their degree.
The Excel curriculum includes 12 undergraduate course credits of advanced English language study in the following courses: Listening & Speaking, Writing & Grammar, and Reading & Vocabulary. The credits count as elective requirements in the College’s undergraduate program and can be combined with courses in a variety of disciplines for a total of 16 credits, which makes it unique to North Central.
Albertus Magnus College Launches Professional Program to Expand Nursing Career Opportunities
Albertus Magnus College (CT) is launching its newest innovative academic offering, the state of Connecticut’s first Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. In partnership with Griffin Hospital’s School of Allied Health Careers, the new program will expand nursing career opportunities to help address the state’s urgent need for more qualified nurses. The Connecticut Board of Examiners for Nursing approved the professional program this fall, and Albertus will begin to admit students beginning in January 2025.
Centre College Adding Two Engineering Degrees
Centre College (KY) will begin offering majors in engineering and engineering studies. Engineering has been offered as a minor at Centre since Fall 2023. Starting in Fall 2025, students will have the option to major in the field. The new engineering program will emphasize experiential learning and career readiness, preparing students for the growing global demand for engineers with both technical and liberal arts-based problem-solving skills. Among the core requirements in the major, students will take courses in engineering, physics, math and chemistry. The program is designed to allow students to discover an interest in the field and pursue areas of specialization.