Tuskegee University in Alabama has launched four new academic programs ahead of the upcoming Fall 2026 semester. The new offerings include a Ph.D. in information systems and computer security, a Ph.D in integrative health and behavioral sciences, a minor in nuclear engineering, and a concentration in sport management.
“For 145 years, Tuskegee University has prepared graduates through our enduring philosophy of educating the hand, the head, and the heart — equipping students with technical skills and intellectual rigor, but also building their character for purpose-driven leadership needed to transform communities,” said President Mark A. Brown. “That educational model remains as relevant today as it was at our founding and Tuskegee remains committed to delivering an education aligned with the demands of the economy and the needs of society — programs that consistently exceed the expectations of gainful employment. We prepare our students to begin great careers, and ultimately achieve lasting social and economic mobility through the power of their education. These new Fall 2026 academic offerings brightly reflect Tuskegee’s Renaissance Era — expanding pathways into high-demand fields while remaining true to our historic mission of developing leaders who serve, innovate, and excel.”
The new Ph.D. program in information systems and computer security offers two specialized tracks in cybersecurity and data science. The doctoral curriculum emphasizes information security, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, quantum computing, software engineering, and big data analysis.
“The response to this new doctoral program has been tremendous,” said Fan Wu, head of the department of computer science. “The curriculum provides students with access to state-of-the-art topics and research opportunities that position them to become leaders in cybersecurity, data science, academia, industry, and government.”
Tuskegee’s other new doctorate in integrative health and behavioral sciences aims to prepare students to address complex health challenges affecting individuals and communities. Integrating topics from behavioral health, public health, rehabilitation science, and integrative health, the degree program emphasizes research, program evaluation, and community-focused scholarship.
“Today’s health challenges require innovative solutions that cross traditional disciplinary boundaries,” explained Dr. Cordelia Nnedu, dean of the School of Nursing and Allied Health at the university since February 2025. “This doctoral degree equips scholars and practitioners with the skills needed to improve health outcomes while contributing meaningful research that impacts communities.”
Students enrolled in mechanical, aerospace, electrical and computer, and chemical engineering programs now have the opportunity to minor in nuclear engineering. The minor includes three courses that introduce students to nuclear engineering principles, nuclear power plant operations, nuclear materials, radiation protection, and plant safety.
“The minor creates a valuable educational pathway for students interested in expanding their technical expertise and career opportunities,” said Heshmat Aglan, dean of the College of Engineering. “Graduates will be better positioned to contribute to critical sectors involving energy, national security, advanced manufacturing, and emerging technologies.”
Lastly, Tuskegee’s new interdisciplinary concentration in sport management combines coursework in psychology, sociology, business, communications, kinesiology, and leadership with specialized topics in sport marketing, sport law, ethics, facility management, injury prevention, and event management. Students can tailor their studies to business- or leadership-focused career paths, culminating in a capstone internship or field-based professional project during their final year.
“We have developed this program to equip students with a strong and comprehensive foundation in understanding both the organizational and human aspects of sport,” said Brooke Burks, dean of the School of Education. “And while we know this program will interest some student-athletes in our outstanding Tuskegee athletics program, it is intentionally interdisciplinary so that any student can access skills that put them on a variety of pathways to careers in the increasingly competitive sports industry.”
