North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University announced the addition of five new graduate degree programs, reinforcing its commitment to addressing critical workforce needs in healthcare, STEM fields, and criminal justice. Starting this fall, the university welcomes its first cohorts into its Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy programs in criminal justice, alongside a new Doctor of Nursing Practice program.
These programs, housed within the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, provide specialized training in four areas: investigative science, digital forensics, research methodology, and social justice. The M.S. program is available both on campus and online, while the Ph.D. program is offered exclusively on campus.
Clay Gloster Jr., Ph.D., P.E., vice provost for Graduate Research and dean of The Graduate College, emphasized the importance of these programs. “Data show that the greatest need for advanced-degree training is centered in healthcare and STEM-related fields,” said Gloster, “These new programs will help address those critical needs in the workforce and expand opportunities in law and criminal justice, as well.
The DNP program, offered through the John R. and Kathy R. Hairston College of Health and Human Sciences, prepares Bachelor of Science in Nursing and master-trained nurses for advanced clinical practice and leadership roles. The curriculum integrates health equity and social justice components with a hybrid delivery format.
The goal is to equip future nursing leaders with the skills to utilize emerging healthcare technologies, including telehealth and artificial intelligence. This initiative aims to enhance minority representation in advanced nursing practice and leadership positions while bridging gaps in psychiatry and mental health nursing.
Programs Coming Soon
In addition to the launched programs, NCAT will introduce a Ph.D. program in applied psychology and a Master of Science in physician assistant studies by Fall 2025. Both are pending accreditation from The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Tonya Smith-Jackson, Ph.D., provost and executive vice chancellor for Academic Affairs, expressed pride in the university’s commitment to academic excellence. “North Carolina A&T’s longstanding commitment to academic excellence ensures future generations of practitioners, public servants, and change-makers are well prepared to make positive, lasting impacts in our communities and beyond,” said Dr. Smith-Jackson. “These programs further bolster our place among the nation’s leading doctoral research universities and give our students the tools, training, and support they need to learn, thrive, and succeed.”
These developments come at a time of notable growth for NCAT has reported enrollment exceeding 14,000 students for the 2024-25 academic year, surpassing last year’s enrollment of 13,885.
