Beginning Fall 2016, UTC’s College of Health, Education, and Professional Studies will offer three new graduate programs: Master of Social Work along with Master of Science and Master of Interior Design. All three programs are accepting applications for enrollment now.
“This gives us a chance to expand for the University the number of graduate students, but it also gives the people who are interested in those [programs] a chance to pursue these degrees here in Chattanooga, rather than having to go and find a place,” explained Dr. Valerie Rutledge, Dean, College of Health, Education, and Professional Studies.
Rutledge is especially excited about increasing opportunities for our students already on campus.
“When you are here as an undergraduate, or any institution as an undergraduate, you begin to develop relationships and you begin to look at opportunities within the community, and the ability to stay at that institution with which you’re already familiar, and the chance to further refine your skills means: I know this faculty, I know this campus, I know this region, I can move forward in my profession knowing for sure that I’m in an area where I feel comfortable. This academic piece is just another enhancement of it,” Rutledge said.
With the introduction of Tennessee Promise, Rutledge is confident in the timing of our newest addition.
“Some students might also choose to start at a two year institute before they come here; but I think that also means that once they come here, our success in helping them finish their bachelor’s degree is another impotence to help them think– UTC’s the place I want to continue and go beyond–I think that is another piece that’s falling into place at the right time.”
The Master of Science (MS) in Interior Design is aimed to continue studies for professionals who want to zone in on specialized areas of their field. With the Master of Interior Design (MID) students’ studies grow beyond the MS degree, to also prepare for a career in academia as the program balances research, teaching, and service. To apply for Master of Science and Master of Interior Design Programs, visit their website here.
The Master of Social Work prepares students for advanced practices in their field. Graduates will be able to obtain licensure as clinical social workers and will be prepared to serve numerous agencies and fields. Information about applying to the Master of Social Work program is available here.
