Savannah State University in Georgia has announced its intent to offer a doctor of public administration degree (DPA) program in Fall 2027, pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Once approved, the degree will be the HBCU’s first doctoral program.
“This is a transformational moment in the history of Savannah State University,” said President Jermaine Whirl. “For more than 135 years, Savannah State has created pathways to opportunity and prepared leaders to serve their communities. Advancing toward our first doctoral program builds upon that legacy while opening an entirely new chapter for this institution. We are proud to make history while expanding the opportunities available to our students and the communities we serve.”
Housed in the HBCU’s newly launched John Lewis School of Public Policy and Social Sciences, the DPA program is designed to prepare experienced professionals for advanced leadership, executive management, policy development, and applied research roles in public and nonprofit organizations. The program emphasizes the application of research and evidence-based practices to real-world challenges facing communities and institutions.
“The Doctor of Public Administration represents a significant advancement of our academic mission and reflects the strength of our faculty, programs and commitment to academic excellence,” said Marcus S. Cox, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “The program will position Savannah State to educate leaders at the highest academic level while responding to the growing need for professionals who can translate research into effective policy, sound leadership and meaningful outcomes for the communities they serve.”
