South Carolina State University, the historically Black educational institution in Orangeburg, has announced the offering of two new graduate-level online programs in the field of education leadership. The university will offer an educational specialist degree program and a doctorate in educational administration.
The education specialist degree program is designed for public school educators who wish to obtain certification as a principal and superintendent. The program requires 45 semester credit hours beyond a master’s degree. The educational administration doctoral degree program prepares educators for a broad range of leadership positions and includes a requirement of 27 semester credit hours, plus 9 hours of dissertation courses.
“The programs reflect a tradition of excellence in the graduate education programs at South Carolina State University, which will refocus our competitive aim in the higher education market place and position the university to serve more citizens in the state of South Carolina,” said Frederick Evans, dean of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.
Charlie Spell, chair of the department of education at the university, adds that “the programs represent the department’s commitment to preparing education leaders for the unique challenges and opportunities that exist within 21st-century public school systems. The online delivery format will enable the university to meet the unique needs of a diverse population of educators.”
Let’s be honest for a moment. SC State University need to focus on their abysmal retention and graduation rates as compared to starting any new programs. Similar sentiments applies to all HBCUs as well.